Proud island guardians
Innovation Awards finalist profile: Ka¯ piti Island Nature
■ Tell us what your business does. Ka¯ piti Island Nature Tours is a wha¯ nau business that allows for members of our family to live on the island and carry on our role as hosts and guardians.
We take great pride in sharing our passion and commitment to the crucial part Ka¯ piti plays in Aotearoa’s ecological and cultural story.
Our product includes ferry transport, guided walking tours, and overnight stays all structured around our kaupapa. We share our wha¯ nau’s land with visitors interpreting the natural and cultural heritage of the island.
■ How did the business start and grow to where it is today? Ka¯ piti Island Nature Tours was started in the late 1990s by John Barrett and his sister Amo Clark. John’s background in the tourism industry highlighted what an internationally unique experience Ka¯ piti Island has to offer. The lodge officially started in the late 1990s and the boat (Te Aihe) was purchased from Nga¯ ti Toa in the mid2010s.
■ What sets you apart from others in your field? Ka¯ piti Island Nature Tours is a wha¯ nau business, operating a tourism experience on Ma¯ ori owned land which has been part of our wha¯ nau for eight generations. We take our role as kaitiaki of our land seriously and we are proud to host visitors sharing with them a unique conservation and cultural experience.
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We were thrilled to be named a finalist. Our
What was your reaction to being named as a finalist?
kaimahi all worked so hard last season and it’s a great way to honour the mahi.
■ What do you like about operating your business in the Ka¯ piti community? We are proud of the power of connections that stretch back 200 years in a supportive community who are passionate about caring for the environment.
■ What does a general day at
Ka¯ piti Island Nature Tours look like? We are up early! Weather needs to be checked and equipment prepared for the day. Sailing times are confirmed, lunches are packed and supplies are ordered for overnight visitors.
Next is check in and biosecurity checks with visitors before it’s off to the island. From there our on-island team take over with our guides, chef and lodge kaimahi delivering a special experience and connection. There is a lull in the middle of the day before the boats come back, are washed and put away ready for the next day.
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