Experience a fascinating full or half-day exploring Quail Island
Enjoy a day at Quail Island by taking our Quail Island Ferry, it’s easily accessible - only 10 minutes from Lyttelton!
Named after the now extinct native Quail bird (koreke), the island was originally used as a quarantine station and as a small leprosy colony by the early European settles. At the same time as the lepers were confined to their one small bay, Antarctic explorers, Scott and Shackleton took advantage of the island to train their sled dogs and ponies before setting off on their ill-fated voyages.
Today the island is a nature reserve and the focus is on restoring native vegetation. The island is home to many native flora and fauna as well as native birds including the fantail, kingfisher, and many sea birds including the rare white flippered little blue penguins. There is a stunning loop track offering magnificent views of Lyttelton harbour, the Port Hills and Banks Peninsula.
Walks: There are 2 walkways available, one offers a walk of the circumference of the island and takes around 2-3 hours to complete and a shorter one hour option which also takes in a view of the shipwrecks, leprosy graves and the kennels used for Scott’s quarantined dogs.
Explore this awesome island escape, perfect for the whole family!
This was my first time to Quail Island and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The staff aboard the Black Cat boat were friendly and easy to talk to. The island itself was clean from rubbish and easy to explore. Lots to see and learn about some history. Highly recommend for a cheap day out.
A full day is recommended if your an explorer, you know that person that likes to read everything, as this Island has a lot of history. We had a beautiful day which made it all the better. Did the full Island walk along with the summit, and enjoyed some chill time down at the beach which has toilets and fresh water. Tip- don't forget to take a rubbish bag
Fantastic family day out. Awesome way to spend some family time adults and kids both enjoyed our day on the island
Great day out for something and somewhere different. Easy walks and beautiful scenery. Awesome day out for a family.
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giannac from New Zealand wrote on 04 February 2021
Amazing!
Great place to stay the night or just go for the day! Loved the hut, I am so glad there is now this option. Black Cat Cruises as always, friendly, professional and the ferry got even bigger now and its separate from Quial Island. So glad to see Quail Island is becoming more known and popular. Can't wait to be back.