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Christchurch Explore New Zealand, Australia & Fiji!tune
Experience a fascinating full or half-day exploring Quail Island
Highlights
- Explore the beautiful Quail Island at your own pace!
- Choose between a half or full-day experience.
- Great activity for the whole family!
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!
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
Authenticated Reviews & Photos All of our reviews are from people who have booked and paid for this activity thru Bookme
Showing all 43 authenticated Bookme reviews
traceym3 from New Zealand wrote on 29 March 2021
1/2 day
The trip was lovely,beautiful day over on the island for a picnic lunch
Janice Tedder from New Zealand wrote on 28 March 2021
Quail island visit
A most enjoyable trip to Quail Island . Lots to see. The water taxi was on time and added to the experience. I am looking forward to going again with my grandchildren.
Robbie from New Zealand wrote on 23 March 2021
Last-minute decision to visit Ōtamahua / Quail Is. A nice way to spend a morning and to get away from the city.
Laura Barnes from New Zealand wrote on 15 March 2021
Great day out
Great day out for all abilities. Definitely remember your togs and picnic.
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janetb8 from New Zealand wrote on 01 April 2021
Quail Island full day
Booked the 10.15 am ferry to Quail island via Bookme the day before at a discounted rate. Boat trip was good over very calm water, dull though warm day, good conditions for walking island. We had the island to ourselves until the 12.30pm arrivals. We walked the longest way around the island birdwatching, admiring the views, enjoying the peace & quiet on a beautiful day. Had not been to Quail for many years, will certainly return one day and i am interested in the DOC hut overnight stay too.