AUCKLAND ISLANDS AND THE SNARES - SUBANTARCTIC WONDERLAND EXPEDITION DOSSIER 6 - 12 FEBRUARY 2021
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AUCKLAND
ISLANDS AND
THE SNARES
SUBANTARCTIC WONDERLAND
EXPEDITION DOSSIER
6 – 12 FEBRUARY 2021
© S Blanc
AUCKLAND ISLANDS AND THE SNARES SUBANTARCTIC WONDERLAND
6 – 12 February 2021 #SOE2184
© T Kraakman
© A Breniere © L Davilla
Departing the Port of Bluff, Invercargill, the first of these
islands we visit are The Snares. No landings are permitted
because the islands are honey-combed with seabird
burrows. Rarely visited and one of New Zealand’s best
kept secrets, The Snares are internationally renowned as
a wildlife haven where we should see the Snares Crested
Penguin, Snares Island Tomtit and Fernbird, New Zealand
Fur Seals and tree daisy forest as we Zodiac cruise its
jagged coastline.
We will have three days to explore the Auckland Islands,
the largest of New Zealand’s Subantarctic Island groups
where albatross wheel in the sky above, tiny endemic
J
oin Heritage Expeditions, the Christchurch-based birds peer out among fields of flowering megaherbs and
pioneers in authentic small ship expedition Hooker’s/New Zealand Sea Lion politics play out on white
cruising, as we explore the spectacular UNESCO sand beaches.
World Heritage Sites of New Zealand’s wild and remote
Subantarctic Snares and Auckland Islands on this 7-day A full day is planned on Enderby Island, arguably the most
wilderness safari. amazing Subantarctic Island, where you can hike through
windswept Rata forests and along exposed coastal cliffs.
Discover the extraordinary Auckland Islands, a land Abundant wildlife is never far, and its lack of fear makes for
where very few have been before and endangered excellent photography and observation opportunities.
wildlife flourishes among oversized alien blooms all
wrapped in a rich human history, and Zodiac cruise In Carnley Harbour, in the south of the Auckland Islands,
the rocky, inhospitable coast of The Snares – one of there are a number of fascinating sites including a Shy
the world’s most important nature reserves – on this Albatross colony, abandoned Coastwatcher’s huts, a
unforgettable adventure. shipwreck and castaway depots that we can visit as we
explore New Zealand’s Subantarctic wonderland.
Despite their low profile, these furthest reaches of New
Zealand are among the most remarkable wildlife reserves Join us on an epic adventure to some of the planet’s most
in the Southern Ocean, designated UNESCO World extraordinary destinations close to home, yet world’s away
Heritage sites and afforded the highest protection. as we redefine natural history travel.
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AUCKLAND ISLANDS AND THE SNARES SUBANTARCTIC WONDERLAND
6 – 12 February 2021 #SOE2184
coastline of these ancient granite
islands on an unforgettable
wildlife safari. Appropriately
called The Snares as they were
once considered a hazard
for sailing ships, these rugged
outposts comprise of two main
islands and a group of five smaller
islands called the Western Chain.
You’ll soon discover why these
pristine nature reserves have
been afforded both UNESCO
World Heritage status and the
highest level of government
protection as we explore sea
caves and observe wildlife in
spectacular numbers. Highlights
include Snares Crested Penguins
© S Gutowsky navigating the treacherous
‘Penguin Slide’, New Zealand
ITINERARY maps it is really quite large and
Fur Seals lazing on jagged rocks,
has a 700 kilometre coastline.
Day 1: Invercargill inquisitive Hooker’s/New Zealand
Seabirds that we may encounter
Make your way to the Ascot Park Sea Lions which may approach
at this early point in the voyage
Hotel, from where we will transfer our Zodiacs and looking for
includes several species of
you to the Port of Bluff. (Reporting endemic Snares Fernbirds and
albatross, petrels, cormorants,
times and the departure time Tomtits among the large tree
gulls and Little Blue Penguins.
of the transfer will be confirmed daisy forests.
with your voyage documents). Day 2: The Snares
The township of Bluff is situated on Sooty Shearwaters are often seen
– North East Island
the north-eastern side of Bluff Hill, in incredible numbers rafting on
The closest Subantarctic Islands
an extinct volcanic cone which the water and Buller’s Albatross
to New Zealand, today we plan
forms a knoll at the southern have also been observed nesting
to Zodiac cruise the craggy
end of the Bluff Peninsula which and soaring over these priceless
extends into Foveaux Strait.
The captain and expedition team
will be waiting for your arrival at
the ship to greet you and show
you to your cabin. You will have
the opportunity to familiarise
yourself on board and there will
be formal introductions to the
team followed by safety briefings.
Join the captain on the bridge
or fellow travellers on deck as
we set sail for The Snares Islands.
We will sail past Ruapuke Island,
formerly a local Maori stronghold
supporting a population of over
200 people. We will also be able
to see Stewart Island. Despite
appearing quite small on most © L Carlson
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 3 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M
AUCKLAND ISLANDS AND THE SNARES SUBANTARCTIC WONDERLAND
6 – 12 February 2021 #SOE2184
family. Beachmaster bulls gather
on the beach defending their
harems from younger (ambitious)
males, to mate with the cows
shortly after they have given
birth to a single pup. Hookers or
New Zealand Sea Lion numbers
are in a slow decline, for reasons
which are not obvious but most
probably connected with a
nearby squid fishery.
During our day ashore here
© L Carlson there will be several options,
some longer walks, some shorter
walks and time to spend just
sitting and enjoying the wildlife.
The walking is relatively easy. A
boardwalk traverses the island to
the dramatic western cliffs, from
there we follow the coast and
circumnavigate the island.
Birds that we are likely to
encounter include the following
species: Southern Royal Albatross,
© S Gutowsky © S Gutowsky Northern Giant Petrel, Auckland
Island Shag, Auckland Island
ecosystems which have been the herbaceous plants, are Flightless Teal, Auckland Island
claimed to be home to more undergoing a remarkable recovery Banded Dotterel, Auckland
nesting seabirds than all of the both in numbers and diversity. Island Tomtit, Bellbird, Pipit, Red-
British Isles combined! crowned Parakeet, Yellow-eyed
Our plan is to land at Sandy Bay, Penguin/Hoiho and Light-mantled
Days 3 – 5: Auckland Islands one of three breeding areas Sooty Albatross. There is also a
We have the next three days to in the Auckland Islands for the very good chance of seeing
explore the remarkable Auckland Hooker’s or New Zealand Sea the Subantarctic Snipe. Other
Islands, an archipelago formed Lion, a rare member of the seal more common species we will
by two volcanoes which erupted
some 10-25 million years ago.
Enderby Island, one of the most
beautiful and wildlife rich islands
in this group, is named after the
same distinguished shipping
family as one of our own vessels
Spirit of Enderby.
This northern most island in the
archipelago is an outstanding
wildlife and birding location and
is relatively easy to land on and
walk around. The island was
cleared of all introduced animals
(pests) in 1994 and both birds
and the vegetation, especially © A Fergus
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 4 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M
AUCKLAND ISLANDS AND THE SNARES SUBANTARCTIC WONDERLAND
6 – 12 February 2021 #SOE2184
the Tagua Bay Coastwatcher’s
hut and lookout (the former is
derelict) which was occupied
during the Second World War.
We could visit Epigwatt and the
remains of the Grafton which was
wrecked here in 1864. All five men
aboard survived and lived here
for 18 months before sailing their
modified dinghy to New Zealand
to get help. Two of the survivors
wrote books about their ordeal.
Their firsthand accounts tell us a
lot about their time here.
Alternatively we may visit the
Erlagan clearing where a German
Merchant ship cut firewood to
fire its boilers after slipping its
© S Gutowsky moorings in Dunedin on the eve
of the Second World War. Another
see include the Goldfinch, Song nesting. This climb provides potential site is Camp Cove
Thrush, Blackbird, European magnificent views in all directions, where we can see the remains of
Starling, Red-billed Gull and especially out over the western the castaway depots established
Redpoll. On Derry Castle Reef entrance to Carnley Harbour, and maintained by the New
we will look for migratory waders Adams Island and down the Zealand government between
which could include the Bar- Western Harbour. the 1860s and early 1900s.
tailed Godwit, Turnstone and
possibly vagrants. For those not able to make the Day 6: At Sea
climb (it is reasonably difficult) Today we are at sea en route
In the south of the archipelago there will be an opportunity to to the Port of Bluff. We will take
there is a very large sheltered Zodiac cruise along the coast the opportunity to recap the
harbour, rich in human history of Adams Island and Western many experiences we have had
including shipwrecks, treasure Harbour, with landings at the on this expedition. This is also a
hunters, Coastwatchers and, latter. Other options include good opportunity to download
of course, scientific parties. We
plan to arrive early morning
from our anchorage at Enderby
Island. We enter the harbour
through the eastern entrance
which is guarded on both sides
by dramatic cliffs and rugged,
tussock-covered hills.
Our activities here are totally
weather dependent. We have a
number of options. If the weather
is OK there will be an opportunity
for the more energetic
expeditioners to climb to the
South West Cape and visit the
Shy Mollymawk colony. Above
the colony we occasionally see
Gibson’s Wandering Albatross © E Bell
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AUCKLAND ISLANDS AND THE SNARES SUBANTARCTIC WONDERLAND
6 – 12 February 2021 #SOE2184
DATES
Voyage #SOE2184
6 – 12 February 2021
PRICES
Heritage Suite NZ$8,850 pp
Large lounge area, separate bedroom with double
bed and a single bed in the lounge, writing desk,
wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with
shower, toilet and washbasin. Large forward and
side facing windows allow great views.
Mini Suite NZ$7,895 pp*
Separate bedroom with a double bed and a single
© L Thorpe bed or sofa in the lounge, writing desk, wardrobe
and drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet
and washbasin. Mini Suites have windows.
and edit any remaining photos In case of any unexpected
while they are fresh in your mind delays due to weather and/or Superior Plus NZ$7,395 pp*
Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and
and you have the experience of port operations, we ask you not drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and
our expedition team on board to book any onward travel from washbasin. These cabins have windows.
for questions. There will also be Invercargill until after midday
Superior NZ$6,895 pp*
some good pelagic birding today. One bunk (one upper and one lower berth), writing
opportunities. desk, wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with
shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have
Note: During our voyage, windows.
Tonight we enjoy a farewell and circumstances may make it
Main Deck NZ$5,895 pp*
celebratory dinner with new necessary or desirable to deviate Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and
found friends with time to reflect from the proposed itinerary. drawers. Private washbasin. Nearby shower and
toilet facilities are shared with other Main Deck
on a wealth of new experiences. This can include poor weather cabins. These cabins have a porthole.
and opportunities for making
Day 7: Invercargill unplanned excursions. Your Main Deck Triple NZ$4,895 pp*
One bunk (one upper and one lower berth) and
We arrive at the Port of Bluff early Expedition Leader will keep one additional lower berth, writing desk, wardrobe
and drawers. Private washbasin. Nearby shower
in the morning. After breakfast, you fully informed. Landings at and toilet facilities are shared with other Main Deck
the Subantarctic Islands of New cabins. These cabins have a porthole.
and a final farewell from your
expedition team you disembark Zealand are by permit only as * The price listed includes the additional landing fee
of $400 pp. (All prices are per person in NZ$)
and board our complimentary administered by the Government
coach transfer to either a central of New Zealand. No landings are
PRICE INCLUDES
city point or to the airport. Our permitted at The Snares.
adventure ends but memories will Landing fees, pre/post cruise transfers,
all on board ship accommodation
last long beyond this.
with meals and all expedition shore
excursions.
PRICE EXCLUDES
All items of a personal nature, laundry,
drinks, gratuities. International/domestic
flights, visas and travel insurance.
2184070121CC
© K Ovsyanikova
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 6 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M
GALAPAGOS
OF THE
SOUTHERN
OCEAN
NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
EXPEDITION DOSSIER
11– 27 FEBRUARY 2021
© D Brown
GALAPAGOS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
© T Bickford
© J Mishina © L Davilla
natural habitats’ on the planet. They are also afforded the
highest conservation status and protection by the New
Zealand Government and access to these islands is by
permit only.
The Chatham archipelago (made up of at least 12 islands,
plus numerous islets) lies 870 kilometres east of New Zealand
and runs 45 minutes ahead of the rest of the country. The
first part of New Zealand and the first inhabited landmass
around the globe to be greeted by the morning sun, the
history of these islands and their rich natural history is unique.
It is only in recent years that these precious islands have
begun to be understood and appreciated.
It is only by visiting and experiencing these remarkable
O
islands that one can truly appreciate what they have to
pportunities to visit all five of New Zealand’s
offer. During our explorations of these wild and remote
Subantarctic Islands plus the Chatham
islands we will hear remarkable stories of rediscovery,
Islands are rare and can only experienced
population recovery and world leading conservation efforts
by a privileged few. This outstanding voyage is your
including the Black Robin and its rescue from the brink of
opportunity to discover amazing endemic wildlife, meet
extinction and the once thought to be extinct Chatham
the locals and experience conservation in action as we
Island Taiko (Magenta Petrel).
journey through these incredibly-diverse archipelagos
rich in wildlife, human history and filled with inspirational
The name we have given to this voyage ‘Galapagos of the
stories of conservation.
Southern Ocean’ reflects the astounding natural biodiversity
and the importance of these islands as a wildlife refuge.
Long recognised for their rich biodiversity, the
Subantarctic Islands lying to the south and east of New
This impressive expedition includes all five New Zealand
Zealand are UNESCO World Heritage sites. This places
Subantarctic Islands, The Snares, Auckland, Campbell,
them in a select group of only 180 natural sites that have
Antipodes and Bounty along with the Chatham Islands.
been designated as ‘the most important and significant
Each one is different and unique – just like this expedition.
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 2 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M
GALAPAGOS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
ITINERARY
Day 1: Invercargill
Passengers should make their way
to the Ascot Park Hotel where our
group will spend the first night of
the expedition. This evening there
will be an informal get-together at
the hotel for dinner; an excellent
opportunity to meet fellow
adventurers on your voyage and
some of our expedition team.
© R Robinson
Day 2: Port of Bluff In the sheltered bays, we should Our plan is to land at Sandy Bay,
Today we enjoy breakfast in the see the endemic Snares Crested one of three breeding areas
hotel restaurant and take the Penguin, Snares Island Tomtit in the Auckland Islands for the
opportunity to explore some of and Fernbirds. Cape Pigeons, Hooker’s or New Zealand Sea Lion,
the local Southland scenery and Antarctic Terns, White-fronted a rare member of the seal family.
attractions before heading to Terns and Red-billed Gulls are Beachmaster bulls gather on the
the Port of Bluff to embark the also present in good numbers. beach defending their harems
Spirit of Enderby. You will have There are hundreds of thousands from younger (ambitious) males,
time to settle into your cabin and of Sooty Shearwaters nesting on to mate with the cows shortly after
familarise yourself with the ship; The Snares; the actual number they have given birth of a single
we will also take the opportunity is much debated. The Buller’s pup. Hookers or New Zealand Sea
to conduct a number of safety Albatross also breeds here from Lion numbers are in a slow decline,
briefings. You are invited to early January onwards. for reasons which are not obvious
join the expedition team and but most probably connected with
captain on the bridge as we set Days 4 to 6: Auckland Islands – a nearby squid fishery.
our course to The Snares and our Enderby Island/Carnley Harbour
adventure begins. The Auckland Islands group was During our day ashore there will
formed by two volcanoes which be several options, some longer
Day 3: The Snares erupted some 10-25 million years walks, some shorter walks and time
– North East Island ago. They have subsequently to spend just sitting and enjoying
The closest Subantarctic Islands been eroded and dissected the wildlife. The walking is relatively
to New Zealand, they were by glaciation creating the easy, a boardwalk traverses the
appropriately called The Snares archipelago as we know it today. island to the dramatic western
as they were once considered cliffs, from there we follow the
a hazard for sailing ships. Enderby Island is one of the coast circumnavigating the island.
Comprising of two main islands most beautiful islands in this
and a group of five islands group and is named for the In the south of the archipelago
called the Western Chain; they same distinguished shipping there is a very large sheltered
are uninhabited and enjoy the family as our own vessel. This
highest protection as Nature northern most island in the
Reserves. It is claimed by some archipelago is an outstanding
that these islands are home to wildlife and birding location and
more nesting seabirds than all of is relatively easy to land on and
the British Isles together. walk around. The island was
cleared of all introduced animals
We plan to arrive early in the (pests) in 1994 and both birds
morning and as landings are not and the vegetation, especially
permitted we will Zodiac cruise the herbaceous plants, are
along the sheltered eastern side recovering both in numbers and
of the main island if the weather diversity.
and sea conditions are suitable. © K Ovsyanikova
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 3 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M
GALAPAGOS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
Day 7: Campbell Island
– Perseverance Harbour
New Zealand’s southernmost
Subantarctic territory Campbell
Island’s history is as rich and
varied as the other islands we
have visited. Discovered in 1810, it
too was soon occupied by sealers
who introduced rats and cats.
In 1895 the New Zealand
© R Robinson Government advertised the island
as a pastoral lease. The lease was
harbour it is rich in human history taken up by an entrepreneurial
of the ‘Grafton’ which was
including shipwrecks, treasure New Zealand sheep farmer who
wrecked here in 1864. All five men
hunters, Coastwatchers and stocked the island with sheep
aboard survived and lived here
of course scientific parties. We and cattle. The farming practices,
for 18 months before sailing their
plan to arrive early morning which included burning the scrub,
modified dinghy to New Zealand
from our anchorage at Enderby modified the island considerably.
to get help. Two of the survivors
Island. We enter the harbour The farming lasted until 1934
wrote books about their ordeal
through the eastern entrance when it was abandoned.
and their first hand accounts tell us
which is guarded on both sides Coastwatchers were stationed on
a lot about their time here.
by dramatic cliffs and rugged the island during the war, at the
tussock covered hills. end of the war the station was
Alternatively, we may visit the
taken over by the New Zealand
Erlagan clearing where a German
Our activities here today are Metrological service and they
Merchant ship cut firewood to
totally weather dependent. maintained a manned weather/
fire its boilers after slipping its
We have a number of options. research station on the island
moorings in Dunedin on the eve
If the weather is OK there will until 1995.
of the Second World War. Another
be an opportunity for the more potential site is Camp Cove where
energetic expeditioners to In the early 1970s a fence was
we can see the remains of the
climb to the South West Cape erected down the middle of the
castaway depots established and
and visit the Shy Mollymawk island, with stock removed from
maintained by the New Zealand
colony. Above the colony the northern half. The impacts
Government between the 1860s
we occasionally see Gibson’s of the remaining animals were
and early 1900s.
Wandering Albatross breeding.
This climb provides magnificent
views in all directions, especially
over the western entrance to
Carnley Harbour, Adams Island
and Western Harbour. For those
not able to make the climb (it
is reasonably difficult) there will
be an opportunity to Zodiac
cruise along the coast of Adams
Island and Western Harbour, with
landings in the latter.
Other options include the Tagua
Bay Coastwatcher’s hut and
lookout (the former is derelict)
which was occupied during the
Second World War. We could
visit Epigwatt and the remains © S Gutowsky
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 4 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MGALAPAGOS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
monitored and they were all
eventually removed in 1990. The
vegetation recovered quickly
and the cats died out naturally.
In a very ambitious (and never
before attempted on such
a large scale) eradication
programme the New Zealand
Department of Conservation
successfully removed the rats.
With the island declared predator
free, the way was clear to
reintroduce the endangered
Campbell Island Flightless Teal © T Bickford
which had been rediscovered
on an offshore island in 1975.
few places where the Fairy Prion, Main island and namesake
Snipe, which were formerly
Fulmar Prion and Antarctic Prion Antipodes Island have benefited
unknown from the island but were
occur together, providing a good from one of the world’s most
discovered on another offshore
opportunity for comparison. Other successful island eradications
island, recolonised the islands
species to be on the lookout for dubbed the ‘Million Dollar Mouse’.
themselves. The vegetation which
include the Soft-plumaged Petrel, A joint initiative between the
the great English botanist, Sir
Mottled Petrel, White-headed Department of Conservation
Joseph Hooker described in 1841
Petrel, Grey-faced Petrel, White- (DOC), the Morgan Foundation,
as having a “Floral display second
chinned Petrel, Grey-backed WWF New Zealand, Island
to none outside the tropics” is
Storm-Petrel, Wilson’s Storm-Petrel, Conservation and public support,
flourishing and is nothing short of
Black-bellied Storm-Petrel and the the programme successfully
spectacular.
Common Diving-Petrel. eradicated some 200,000 mice
from the island in less than two
We will offer a number of options
Day 9: Antipodes Islands years with DOC announcing the
which will enable you to explore
The Antipodes Islands are the most island ‘mouse free’ in 2018. The
the island and allow you the
isolated and perhaps least known island’s unique plants and wildlife,
opportunity and time to enjoy the
of New Zealand’s Subantarctic including 21 species of breeding
Southern Royal Albatross which
Islands. Sealers lived here in the seabirds, more than 150 species
nest here in large numbers. We
decades immediately after the of insects – 17 per cent endemic
also visit areas of the island which
islands’ discovery in 1806 and two to the Antipodes; 21 uncommon
contain outstanding examples
historic, and one recent, shipwreck plant species and four unique
of the megaherbs for which the
have been recorded here. land birds now thrive following the
island is renown.
removal of the mice.
The islands are of volcanic origin,
Day 8: At Sea
but are heavily eroded, especially Landings are not permitted on the
At sea en route to the Antipodes,
the western shoreline which is Antipodes group, so if the weather
it is a day for pelagic birding.
ragged and dotted with sea and sea conditions are suitable, we
Species commonly seen in this
caves, stacks and coves. The plan to cruise along the coastline
area include Wandering Albatross
islands are frequently buffeted of Antipodes Island by Zodiac.
species, Southern Royal Albatross,
by westerly winds, while overcast The bull kelp Durvillaea Antarctica
Black-browed Albatross,
conditions and drizzle are not ‘Antipodes Island’ is prevalent
Campbell Island Albatross, Light-
unusual. The largest of the group here, this dark-brown subtidal plant
mantled Sooty Albatross, Salvin’s
is Antipodes Island, which rises to with thick flattened blades can
Albatross, Grey-headed Albatross,
366 metres with the volcanic cone grow up to 10 metres long. As we
Northern and Southern Giant
of Mt Galloway, most of the island Zodiac cruise the coastline we
Petrel, the Sooty Shearwater and
has an undulating plateau cut by have a good chance of seeing the
the Little Shearwater. This region of
deep alluvial gullies. Antipodes Parakeet, the largest of
the Southern Ocean is one of the
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 5 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MGALAPAGOS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
be had from the ship and there
will also be hundreds of birds
following behind.
Days 12 to 14: Chatham Islands
We have three days to explore
here and have worked closely
with the Chatham Island people
to create a varied programme
ensuring a greater appreciation
and exploration of these islands,
however the daily itinerary will be
© J Mishina
determined by weather and sea
conditions.
New Zealand’s parakeets, which Day 11: Pyramid Rock
has an entirely green head. We will There are excellent opportunities Consisting of one large island
also be looking for the Reischek’s for pelagic birding as we and numerous smaller islands and
Parakeet, a strong subspecies of approach the Chatham Islands’ rocky islets, only two islands of the
the Red-crowned Parakeet found archipelago. In particular, we will Chatham Islands’ archipelago are
in the Auckland Islands and on the look out for the Chatham Island inhabited. They represent New
Chatham Islands, as well as the Petrel, and in the past we have Zealand’s eastern most territory
Antipodes subspecies of the New observed the very rare Chatham and were originally settled by East
Zealand Pipit. We can also expect Island Taiko in this area too. Polynesians (either directly or via
good views of both Erect-crested Endemic to the Chatham Islands, New Zealand as the evidence
and Rockhopper Penguins along the Chatham Island Taiko – also supports some contact there)
the coast where they often breed known as the Magenta Petrel – in the 1400s. Their geographic
in mixed colonies. Antarctic Terns is among New Zealand’s most isolation saw them develop their
and Kelp Gulls are also often seen endangered species. It is one of own distinct culture. In the 1770s
in good numbers. the world’s rarest seabirds with Europeans discovered the islands
a population estimated at less with sealers and settlers following.
Day 10: Bounty Islands than 150. In the 1830s New Zealand Maori
The incongruously named Bounty invaded the islands, killing and
Islands, the northernmost of the This afternoon we plan to cruise enslaving many of the indigenous
five New Zealand Subantarctic around the spectacular basalt Moriori people. The impact of
groups, were discovered by outcrop of Pyramid Rock, south the original settlers, the European
Captain William Bligh when the of Pitt Island – the only breeding and later the Maori on the native
British naval ship HMS Bounty place of the Chatham Island flora and fauna was disastrous.
sailed by the islands in 1788, just Albatross. Landings are not Introduced animals, hunting, fires
months before the infamous possible (nor practical – a fact and land clearing wiped out
mutiny. Here inhospitable granite you will appreciate when you see many species of endemic birds.
knobs, tips of the submerged it) but great views of birds can
Bounty Platform, are lashed by
the Southern Ocean. They are
home to thousands of Salvin’s
Albatross, Erect-crested Penguins,
Fulmar Prions and the endemic
Bounty Island Shag – the world’s
rarest. We plan to arrive in the
early morning and Zodiac cruise
the granite outposts to take a
closer look at the birds breeding
here and the large numbers of
New Zealand Fur Seals which
were almost hunted to extinction. © O Liodden
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 6 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MGALAPAGOS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
landings are not permitted, we
can expect good views of the
world’s rarest wader the endemic
New Zealand Shore Plover, and
Chatham Island Oystercatcher.
We should also see the Pitt Island
Shag which nests on the island.
At Pitt Island, spectacular scenery
waits at this jewel in the Chatham
Islands’ crown. The easternmost
inhabited island in New Zealand,
it is situated approximately 22
kilometres south-east of the
main Chatham Island. Named
© S Howell
‘Rangihaute’ by the Moriori, it is
separated from the main island
by Pitt Strait and is officially the first
Fortunately a number survived Chatham Island Pigeon, Chatham
inhabited place on Earth to be
on the offshore islands in the Island Warbler and Tui. The
greeted by the sun each day.
archipelago. pigeon was close to extinction,
though now supports a healthy
Situated to the west of Pitt Island,
With a new generation of Chatham population. Travelling by local
Mangere Island is one of only two
Island people there has come a bus, the road takes us through
sites in the world where the Black
new awareness and a willingness developed farmland where we
Robin (once the world’s rarest
to be part of a concerted will undoubtedly see numerous
bird) are found. We will hear the
conservation effort. A number introduced species and the Weka.
story of how this endemic species
of private reserves have been There will also be an opportunity
was rescued from the brink of
established on the main Chatham to continue further south to the
extinction in the 1970s when
Island; a lot of replanting has Tuku River and Taiko Town where
the total population consisted
taken place and predator control you will be able to learn about
of just six birds. The recovery of
initiatives have been instigated. We the discovery and conservation
this little bird is a remarkable
hope to experience some these work done on the Chatham Island
tale of persistence, passion,
firsthand during our time on the Taiko, one of the world’s most
courage and a little luck. Also
main island. endangered seabirds.
on Mangere and Little Mangere
Islands is the Forbes’ Parakeet
We expect to visit the Awatotara During our time here we also hope
(aka the Chatham Parakeet).
Valley, one of the original private to Zodiac cruise South East Island,
This rare parakeet is endemic to
reserves where there is a very arguably one of the world’s
the Chatham Islands, where it is
good chance to see the endemic greatest nature reserves. While
confined to these tiny islands.
© L Gywnn
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 7 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MGALAPAGOS OF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN NEW ZEALAND’S SUBANTARCTIC
AND CHATHAM ISLANDS
DATES
Voyage #SOE2186
11 – 27 February 2021
PRICES
Heritage Suite $17,430 pp*
Large lounge area, separate bedroom with double
bed and a single bed in the lounge, writing desk,
wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with
shower, toilet and washbasin. Large forward and
side facing windows allow great views.
Mini Suite $16,360 pp*
Separate bedroom with a double bed and a single
bed or sofa in the lounge, writing desk, wardrobe
and drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet
and washbasin. Mini Suites have windows.
Superior Plus $15,890 pp*
Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and
© J Gurden
drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and
washbasin. These cabins have windows.
Days 15 to 16: At Sea Note: During our voyage, Superior $ 14,675 pp*
En route to Invercargill we we circumstances may make it One bunk (one upper and one lower berth), writing
desk, wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with
can expect some great pelagic necessary or desirable to deviate shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have
from the proposed itinerary. windows.
birding. We expect to encounter
include several species of This can include poor weather
Main Deck $ 13,900 pp*
albatross, petrel, shearwater and and opportunities for making Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and
drawers. Private washbasin. Nearby shower and
prion as we sail back. unplanned excursions. Your toilet facilities are shared with other Main Deck
Expedition Leader will keep cabins. These cabins have a porthole.
It’s also a good time to take the you fully informed. Landings at
Main Deck Triple $ 13,075 pp*
opportunity to relax and reflect the Subantarctic Islands of New One bunk (one upper and one lower berth) and
one additional lower berth, writing desk, wardrobe
on the expedition, and download Zealand are by permit only as and drawers. Private washbasin. Nearby shower
and edit any remaining photos administered by the Government and toilet facilities are shared with other Main Deck
cabins. These cabins have a porthole.
while they are fresh in your mind of New Zealand. No landings
are permitted at The Snares, * The price listed includes the additional landing fee
and you have the experience of
of $1,200 pp. (All prices are per person in NZ$)
our expedition team on board for Antipodes and Bounty Islands.
questions. PRICE INCLUDES
Landing fees, pre/post cruise transfers,
We will recap the highlights of our one night hotel accommodation in a
expedition and enjoy a farewell twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast),
dinner on the second evening as all on board ship accommodation
we sail to our final port. with meals and all expedition shore
excursions.
Day 17: Invercargill
Early this morning we will arrive
PRICE EXCLUDES
in the Port of Bluff. After a final All items of a personal nature, laundry,
drinks, gratuities. International/domestic
breakfast we bid farewell to
flights, visas and travel insurance.
our fellow voyagers and take a
complimentary coach transfer to
either a central city point or to the
airport.
In case of unexpected delays
due to weather and/or port
operations we ask you not to
2186140121CC
book any onward travel until after
midday today.
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 8 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MUNSEEN FIORDLAND,
STEWART ISLAND
AND THE SNARES
EXPLORING NEW ZEALAND’S
REMOTE BACKYARD
EXPEDITION DOSSIER
28 February – 7 March 2021
© I WilsonUNSEEN FIORDLAND, STEWART ISLAND AND THE SNARES
© S Gutowsky
© M Crouch © R Smith
wildlife hotspots from Antarctica through to, and
including, the Arctic, was realised. After departing
Bluff we set sail for Stewart Island, New Zealand’s
Milford Sound third largest island, and predator-free Ulva Island/Te
Doubtful Sound
Queenstown
Wharawhara. Rich in history and wildlife, these wild
Dusky Sound
and remote islands are home to a unique range of
Invercargill
Stewart Island
birdlife including Bellbird, Tui, Kaka, Tomtit, Rifleman,
The Snares Stewart Island Robin, Saddleback, Mohua and of
course, the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi (or Southern
J
oin Heritage Expeditions, pioneers in authentic Tokoeka). There will be opportunities to listen to
small ship expedition cruising, as we explore the native bird song and enjoy the golden sandy
New Zealand’s remote southern backyard on beaches, before taking the time to take a closer
this special 8-day voyage. Discover the time-forgot look at the history of Paterson Inlet.
rawness of wildlife-rich Stewart Island/Rakiura, Zodiac
cruise the rocky, inhospitable coast of The Snares – Rarely visited and one of New Zealand’s best kept
one of the world’s most important nature reserves, secrets, The Snares is internationally renowned as
and experience the primordial majesty of Fiordland a wildlife haven where we should see the Snares
firsthand on this unforgettable adventure. Crested Penguin, Snares Island Tomtit and Fernbird,
New Zealand Fur Seals and tree daisy forest as we
Heritage Expeditions pioneered expedition cruising Zodiac cruise its jagged coastline. As we expedition
in Fiordland more than 30 years ago. It was from cruise up the lower west side of New Zealand’s South
these first, wild Kiwi wilderness adventures the Island, we prepare for the grand scale scenery
Christchurch-based Russ family’s dream of genuine of Fiordland. Exploring these remote ice-carved
responsible tourism, which now spans some of the mountains, verdant forests and winding fiords, it is
world’s most remote and rarely visited regions and easy to see why this incredible region inspired our
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 2 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MUNSEEN FIORDLAND, STEWART ISLAND AND THE SNARES
dream for responsible travel. In ITINERARY Enjoy the impressive bird song
the calm waters of Fiordland as we explore Ulva Island, rich
we can expect to encounter Day 1: Invercargill in history and wildlife, which has
playful New Zealand Fur Seals, Make your way to your meeting been predator-free since 1997.
curious Dusky Dolphins, elusive point at the Ascot Park Hotel, Some of the wildlife you may get
birds and enjoy endless stunning from here we will transfer you to to see while walking its tracks and
vistas. During our time here we the Port of Bluff. (Reporting times exploring Boulder and West End
plan to Zodiac cruise glittering and the departure time of the Beaches, Post Office Bay and
waterways amid the podocarp transfer will be confirmed with Sydney Cove include Stewart
forest-cloaked spines of Anchor your voyage documents). The Island Robin, Stewart Island Weka,
and Resolution Islands and the captain and expedition team South Island Kaka, Kereru (wood
tiny islands of Dusky Sound where will be waiting for your arrival at pigeon), Mohua (yellowhead),
orchids, flame-tipped Rata and the ship to greet you and show Red-crowned Parakeet, Fantail,
clusters of alpine tree daisies put you to your cabin. You will have Bellbird and Tui. There are many
on an impressive floral display. the opportunity to familiarise more species that may also
yourself on board and there will be seen, our knowledgeable
On predator-free Anchor be formal introductions to the expedition guides will be listening
Island, home to half the world’s team followed by safety briefings. for bird calls and keeping a close
population of Kākāpō as well Join the captain on the bridge or watch in overhead canopies and
as Little Spotted Kiwi, we’ll walk fellow travellers on deck as we set the surrounding shrubs to identify
around Lake Kirirua, its surface sail for Stewart Island. further species.
reflecting the surrounding
forest, before arriving at historic Day 2: Stewart Island In Paterson Inlet visit the historic
Luncheon Cove - a location — Ulva Island Norwegian whaling station in
of New Zealand firsts including New Zealand’s third island is well Prices Inlet and Kaipipi Bay, where
first sealing gang, first European off the usual beaten tourist track. from 1923 and 1933 the Ross Sea
settlement and first ship built in It is a wonderfully tranquil place Whaling Company of Sandefjord,
the country. Explore hidden inlets, and with 85 per cent of the island Norway ran a repair base where
coves and beaches as we Zodiac designated national park, the chaser boats were serviced in
cruise Sportsman Cove, explore scenery of untouched bushland is preparation for the Antarctic
Cooper Island and experience stunning. Despite its small stature summer. Discover quirky town
Fiordland from above with an on most maps, Stewart Island centre Oban in Halfmoon Bay
optional helicopter extension. has 700-kilometres of coastline where a drink with a view can be
Discover unseen New Zealand so there is much to explore and enjoyed at the historic and iconic
on this iconic adventure to rarely experience here. South Sea Hotel.
visited shores.
© C Todd
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 3 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MUNSEEN FIORDLAND, STEWART ISLAND AND THE SNARES
Day 3: The Snares
— North East Island
Today we plan to Zodiac cruise
the craggy coastline of these
ancient granite islands on an
unforgettable wildlife safari. You’ll
soon discover why these pristine
nature reserves have been
afforded both UNESCO World
Heritage status and the highest
level of government protection
as we explore sea caves and
observe wildlife in spectacular
numbers. Highlights include Snares
Crested Penguins navigating
the treacherous ‘Penguin Slide’,
New Zealand Fur Seals lazing on
jagged rocks, inquisitive Hooker’s/
New Zealand Sea Lions which
© L Gwynn
may approach our Zodiacs
and looking for endemic Snares
Fernbirds and Tomtits among the Fiordland’s coast is only in Fiordland include Doubtful
large tree daisy forests. Sooty accessible by sea, making it Sound, Dusky Sound and Acheron
Shearwaters are often seen in the most remote region of New Passage, Astronomer’s Point and
incredible numbers rafting on the Zealand’s mainland. Waterfalls, Pickersgill Harbour. During our
water and Buller’s Albatross have streams, rivers and fiords are time in Dusky Sound there will be
also been observed nesting and enveloped with misty veils that the opportunity to experience
soaring above these priceless come and go, revealing steep an unforgettable helicopter flight
ecosystems. gradients of mountain peaks through the Sound swooping
and sheltered valleys. A rugged down alongside Cooper Island
Days 4 – 6: Fiordland terrain, the thickly forested floors and Cook Channel with a landing
are covered with ferns, lichens on Mt Pender where spectacular
We have three days to explore
and mosses. Bottlenose Dolphins, vistas of islands stretching into the
the incredible wilderness of fiords
Fiordland Crested Penguins and horizon and dotting the winding
in the south-west corner of the
Little Penguins are all residents of fiords can be enjoyed. On the
South Island. This is an area rich
the fiords; during our time here evening of Day 6 we will enjoy a
in history, majestic scenery and
we will look out for them. Our celebratory dinner with newfound
abundant in wildlife. Fiordland
schedule gives us the flexibility to friends and reflect on a wealth
was well known to local Maori
visit as much as possible, areas of new experiences from our
people, with the demi-god Tu-te-
we plan to visit during our time adventure.
raki-whanoa being said to have
used his adze, Te Hamo, to carve
out the region’s fiords. Captain
Cook and his crew landed here
on HMS Resolution in 1773, they
were the first Europeans to visit
Fiordland, subsequently spending
five weeks in Dusky Sound. Cook’s
records of his discovery and maps
attracted sealers and whalers not
long after who then formed the
first European settlements of New
Zealand, historically this region is
very important and shaped the
future of the country. © Heritage Expeditions
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 4 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O MUNSEEN FIORDLAND, STEWART ISLAND AND THE SNARES
DATES
Voyage #SOE2188
28 February – 7 March 2021
PRICES
Heritage Suite NZ$8,450 pp
Large lounge area, separate bedroom with double
bed and a single bed in the lounge, writing desk,
wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with
shower, toilet and washbasin. Large forward and side
facing windows allow great views.
Mini Suite NZ$7,495 pp
Separate bedroom with a double bed and a single
bed or sofa in the lounge, writing desk, wardrobe
and drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet
and washbasin. Mini Suites have windows.
Superior Plus NZ$6,995 pp
Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and
drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and
washbasin. These cabins have windows.
Superior NZ$6,495 pp
One bunk (one upper and one lower berth), writing
desk, wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with
shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have
windows.
Main Deck NZ$5,495 pp
Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and
© H Dohn
drawers. Private washbasin. Nearby shower and toilet
facilities are shared with other Main Deck cabins.
These cabins have a porthole.
Day 7: Milford Sound Our final plan will be determined
Enjoy a final breakfast on board by the weather. The Captain and Main Deck Triple NZ$4,495 pp
One bunk (one upper and one lower berth) and one
Spirit of Enderby before saying Expedition Leader will work hard additional lower berth, writing desk, wardrobe and
farewell to the expedition team to make the best use of our time drawers. Private washbasin. Nearby shower and toilet
facilities are shared with other Main Deck cabins.
then enjoying a spectacular in this incredible region of New These cabins have a porthole.
3-hour nature cruise of Milford Zealand, including areas that few
Sound under the shadow of New Zealanders have visited. OPTIONAL CHARGE
mighty Mitre Peak, lunch and Helicopter Excursion NZ$450 pp
a visit to the Milford Sound During our voyage,
(All prices are per person in NZ$)
Underwater Observatory circumstances may make it
necessary or desirable to deviate
PRICE INCLUDES
Following this we will transfer from the proposed itinerary.
This can include poor weather Pre/post cruise transfers, one night hotel
you to the Hilton Queenstown
accommodation in a twin share room
Resort & Spa, stopping at Mirror and opportunities for making
(incl. dinner/breakfast), all on board
Lakes, Knobs Flat and Homer unplanned excursions. Your ship accommodation with meals and all
Tunnel along the way, where you Expedition Leader will keep you expedition shore excursions (excluding
will spend the final night of the fully informed. Helicopter Excursion).
expedition. This evening enjoy an
informal dinner at the hotel with PRICE EXCLUDES
your fellow adventurers. All items of a personal nature, laundry,
drinks, gratuities and Helicopter
Day 8: Queenstown Excursion. International/domestic flights,
visas and travel insurance.
Enjoy a final breakfast in the
hotel restaurant with your fellow
travellers before saying your
farewells and embarking on your
next adventure.
2188190121CC
W W W. H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M 5 I N F O @ H E R I TA G E - E X P E D I T I O N S . C O M© P Tyree
Heritage Suites: Large lounge area, separate bedroom with double bed and a single
bed in the lounge, writing desk, wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with shower,
toilet and washbasin. Large forward and side facing windows allow great views.
Mini Suites: Separate bedroom with a double bed and a single bed or sofa in the
lounge, writing desk, wardrobe and drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and
washbasin. Mini Suites have windows.
Superior Plus Cabins: Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and drawers.
Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have windows.
*Cabin 411 has a double bed with upper bunk.
Superior Cabins: One bunk (one upper and one lower berth), writing desk, wardrobe
and drawers. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins
have windows.
Main Deck Cabins: Two lower berths, writing desk, wardrobe and drawers. Private
washbasin. Nearby shower and toilet facilities are shared with other Main Deck cabins.
These cabins have a porthole.
Main Deck Triple: One bunk (one upper and one lower berth) and one additional lower
berth, writing desk, wardrobe and drawers. Private washbasin. Nearby shower and
toilet facilities are shared with other Main Deck cabins. These cabins have a porthole.
Freephone: 0800 262 8873 (within NZ) 1800 143 585 (within Australia) 1866 285 7884 (within USA/Canada)
Antarctic House, 53B Montreal Street, P.O. Box 7218, Christchurch 8240, New Zealand.
Tel +64 3 365 3500 info@heritage-expeditions.com www.heritage-expeditions.comYou can also read
