Vast scale of Farewell Spit
Farewell Spit Safari
Stretching out into Cook Strait at the far north west point of the South Island is Farewell Spit, the longest sand spit in New Zealand. Farewell Spit Tours will introduce you to this dramatic and ever changing landscape of shifting sands and pounding surf populated by varied wildlife and with a fascinating human history.
The original Farewell Spit Safari
Farewell Spit Tours began back in 1946 when the family of the current manager, Paddy Gillooly started a transport service to take fuel, food and school lessons to the lighthouse keepers and their families out at Farewell Spit Lighthouse.
Soon after this, tourists who were keen to explore this unique and protected ecosystem asked to be taken along for the ride and now Farewell Spit Tours are one of very few operators who are licensed to operate their purpose built 4WD vehicles in this wildlife sanctuary.
Royal Spoonbill
The expert commentary from experienced local guides will introduce you to the numerous wading birds, seabirds, sea mammals and rare plants that live on and around the spit. Your guide will take you to sand dunes that will make you feel that you are in the depths of the Sahara and then to the lighthouse itself.
As you stand out of the wind in the calm oasis of trees planted by the first lighthouse keepers, you are sure to feel in awe of these early pioneers who, with no shelter or protection from the elements, came here to protect ships and sailors navigating this dangerous coastline.
Back
links | sitemap | privacy | terms | image credits