Five Things You Can Do to Save Hector’s Dolphins

Posted on April 20, 2013 by Blackcat

A young Hector's dolphin in Akaroa

Hector’s Dolphins are an endangered species, and they need all the help they can get. Scientists estimate that there were between 21,000 and 29,000 Hector’s Dolphins in the 1970s. But due to the detrimental effects of trawling, net fishing and a changing habitat being invaded by people, the population has dwindled. Today, the numbers sit at an estimated 7270 – less than one third of the 1970s population.

Many of these dolphins can be found in the beautiful Akaroa Harbour.

But there is hope for our native dolphin. Here are five ways you can get involved in helping conserve these beautiful creatures.

Be Dolphin Friendly

First off, it’s best to make sure you’re doing everything you can if you’re out in the water or even just someone who likes a bit of seafood. If that sounds like you, there are several ways to ensure what you love doing doesn’t have bad effects for our Hector’s Dolphins:

- Avoid using set nets, especially when you see dolphins close by. You should also use a ‘no wake’ speed limit if you’re within 300 metres of dolphins.

- Don’t swim with, feed, or touch the dolphins unless you’re with a tourist operation. The only permitted Hector’s dolphin swimming operation in the world is from Akaroa (with Black Cat Cruises)

- Keep their habitat clean by taking any rubbish with you, and if you see any floating in the water, it’d be great if you pick it up too

- Be aware of your surroundings and make sure that others out on the water are able to see if there are dolphins around too

- When having a meal with seafood, make sure that what you’re eating was caught without using trawling or a gillnet

- And when going fishing yourself, dolphin-safe methods such as using a hook and line, fishing rod or craypot, are the way to go

Akaroa is home to about 1000 Hectors dolphins

Get Educated

The key to conservation is education. There are great programmes around the country that go to primary schools and make sure that the children in the area are informed about the struggle of Hector’s Dolphins. But school isn’t the only way to get involved here – get informed by doing a little research. Here on this blog is a great place to start, or on sites from organisations like the Department of Conservation and WWF. Knowledge is power, and if you can spread the word to others about what we can do to save the dolphins, then we’re more likely to be able to help them out.

by Lydia Uddstrom Feb 2013

Donate to the cause

Donate a little time, or if you have it, a little money to the plight of these dolphins. Take a few minutes to look up campaigns and organisations, see how you can volunteer, or even just how you can get their message out there, and you will have helped just by publicising the great work that goes into saving these creatures. Or if you have a bit of spare cash, look out for things like WWF’s Stop Their Extinction campaign, or the 100m Campaign. To get a feel for these sorts of things, go to stoptheirextinction.org.nz and you’ll see a number of ways you can do something for this endangered species. Campaigns like these are concerned with bringing about awareness of the plight of Hector’s and often, the also highly endangered Maui dolphins. You can donate money to the cause, send the message to your friends, or even adopt a dolphin!

Get Political

A great way to incite action is to make your voice heard by those who need to hear it. Getting in contact with the Department of Conservation, your local body government, or charities running campaigns for the dolphins is a great way to encourage a dialogue about what’s happening to our marine mammals. Writing a letter, or getting on board with a public proposal to the Minister of Fisheries or Minister of Conservation is really useful for bringing up the issue of protecting dolphin habitat with those who have the authority to legislate change. Or, if you need a hand to start, go to the 100m Campaign (www.whaledolphintrust.org.nz/ campaigns-100m.php) and you’ll find a link to an MP’s email address, giving you the tools to let your voice be heard on the issue of fishing nets in New Zealand waters.

by Brad Garrett, taken from the deck of the Black Cat January 2013

Get Social Media Savvy

With the glorious wonder that is the internet, and of course a little know how, there is no end to what you can do to bring about awareness of the fact that Hector’s Dolphins need our help. Join the social media pages of organisations like Black Cat Cruises in Akaroa and Lyttelton, WWF, or the Whale and Dolphin Trust and not only can you stay informed about the latest developments, activities, and campaign events, but you can share this information with your friends too. There are also other exciting ways to get involved online, like with hectorsdolphins.com and their ‘Let’s Face It’ campaign for the last 55 Maui dolphins, where people upload photographs of themselves for a visual petition. With following these campaigns, it’s easy to get inspired to create your own buzz – make a poster, start a blog, or post on a page to get the word out there and raise awareness of the plight of Hector’s Dolphins yourself!

Getting involved is the first step to getting Hector’s Dolphins the help they need. Look out for next week’s blog post about those who have already made a dent in the fight for a safe and well New Zealand Dolphin population.

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10 things you should know about New Zealand’s only native dolphin

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Blackcat

Hector’s Dolphins, (or Cephalorhynchus Hectori , for those of you with an affinity for Latin) are the friendly creatures that grace the waters near New Zealand shores. Native to Aotearoa, and commonly found along the coast of Banks Peninsula, these dolphins have sparked excitement in local scientists for the past 30 or so years, and now we know more about them than ever. Here are ten things about Hector’s Dolphins you may not have known:

10. Under the Radar

The way Hector’s Dolphins communicate is often inaudible to the human ear. Except for the occasional squeal or cry, their sounds just don’t register to us. They communicate through short, high frequency clicks which last about 1/7000th of a second and are usually at about 120 kHz – 6 times higher than the human ear can hear. These are emitted as pulses in the water, and they become more frequent when they get closer to a target.

9. Lone Wolves Making Packs

From research, it seems that although Hector’s Dolphins are inclined to stick together in groups, they don’t really have strong family ties or set packs that they are always associated with. Although mothers stick with their children to show them the ropes as they grow up, and the occasional dolphin has a ‘best friend’ or two, relationships between males and females are far from monogamous and researchers usually find that the same dolphins are not often seen together.


8. Age-Telling Teeth

We now know that Hector’s Dolphins on average live into their early twenties. How? Their teeth. When they are born, they start out with hollow cone-like teeth and every year, two more layers will grow up into them to fill out the cone – one in summer, and one in winter. Scientists count the layers, like rings on a tree, to find the age of a dolphin.

7. Massive brains

Hector’s Dolphins have one of the largest brain-to-body weight ratios in the animal kingdom, and the largest amongst dolphins. With 1.7% of their body weight residing in their brain, it’s really no wonder they have a reputation for being intelligent. The average human ratio is 1.9%, which doesn’t seem to be particularly far ahead. And not only are they catching up to us in size, but in the way we value our smarts too; the areas of the dolphin brain associated with reason and creativity are surprisingly well developed.

6. Dolphins just play for fun

Unlike many creatures in the animal kingdom that learn to fight or hunt through play amongst their group, Hector’s Dolphins just play for the fun of it. They’re really friendly around humans, and you’ll often see them surfing in the wake of a passing boat, or tossing around a twig, some seaweed, or leaves near the surface of the water. When they’re enjoying themselves, they blow bubbles under the water to show their excitement. Many scientists believe that the fact that they seem to play just for the pleasure of it is a sign of their intelligence.

5. Punks and Sharkbait

Since New Zealand scientists started studying Hector’s Dolphins in the ‘80s, they’ve gotten to know quite a few characters. Identifying features and repeat visits mean that they’re quite familiar with dolphins like Biggus Nickus, whose name was inspired by the nick in his dorsal fin (and the Monty Python film, Life of Brian). Others include Punk, who had a calf every two years from 2000-2008, and Sharkbait, who researchers met when he had a fresh wound on his back from an attack.

4. No Tagging

In 2004, the Department of Conservation tagged three Hector’s Dolphins in the Banks Peninsula area. This was met with much outrage from scientists, conservationalists, and dolphin enthusiasts alike. As Hector’s Dolphins are so friendly and so willing to come up to researchers time and time again, key scientists, Professors Slooten and Dawson want to keep them free from tags. They believe that it is unethical to tag animals if it means putting them through stress for research that can be done through other means. Tagging can also change the behaviour of an animal due to human intervention, which would skew observational findings. And of course, scientists have the ability to monitor the dolphins through the photographic records they keep, so they can learn about Hector’s Dolphins without causing them unnecessary harm. Therefore the scientists like to keep a tag-free policy when it comes to Hector’s Dolphins.

3. A Different Dorsal

It’s easy to tell the difference between your standard dolphins from other waters and New Zealand’s own Hector’s Dolphin. Aside from the fact that Hector’s Dolphins are predominantly grey and quite small in comparison to their international counterparts, they have a very rounded dorsal fin. Other species you may spot in New Zealand waters that aren’t natives will have a sickle or triangular shaped fin, meaning it’s pretty easy for a Hector’s Dolphin to stand out from the crowd. In fact, they are sometimes known as the ‘Mickey Mouse Dolphin’ – it’s easy to see why.

2. Hungry Dolphins

Being warm-blooded creatures in a very cool environment, it’s important that dolphins eat as much as they can to keep their energy levels up with the activity they do. A typical male Hector’s Dolphin will eat about 11% of his body weight in fish each day as long as he can get hold of it. That’s the equivalent of an average adult male eating 37 Big Macs in one day!

1. Hector’s Dolphins are tiny

Relative to the size of other sea dwelling mammals, the native New Zealand dolphin is quite small. Going by length, Hector’s Dolphins are the smallest in the world – the average Hector’s Dolphin is the size of a five year old child, whereas the average Bottlenose is the length of a small family car! However, there’s a little competition for the title, because by weight, the Franciscana dolphin of South America is ten kilograms lighter than a fully grown Hector’s Dolphin.

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Banks Peninsula Cruising

Posted on March 12, 2013 by Blackcat

Cyclists high on the Summit Road above Akaroa Harbour during the iconic race, Le Race. Photo credit; Tailwind Events

Banks Peninsula offers a huge variety of options to cruise on the bike, both for road and mountain biking. The area starting life as a volcanic island and the Peninsula’s two major volcanos’ have now sunk 2500 meters over a very long period of time, providing the wonderful harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton.

Over time alluvium from the Southern Alps extended from the mainland shoreline to link up with the once isolated volcanoes, providing the flat areas that surround the peninsula.

There are numerous ways of attacking climbs throughout Banks Peninsula, but we’d thought we look at a unique ride that starts in Christchurch and finishes in Akaroa with a boat trip thrown in along the way.

Heading along Colombo Street towards the Port Hills of Banks Peninsula you eventually arrive at the bottom of Dyers Pass, just under the first two kilometres of this portion of the road up Dyers Pass is filled with thousands of very keen cycling fans in early January each year for the Calder Stewart New Zealand elite cycling champs. In late March each year the climb all the way to the top sorts things out early for the iconic 100 kilometre Christchurch to Akaroa Le Race cycle race, being held this year on the 23rd of March.

The gradient is quite steep in places but after you past the Cup and Emperor’s New Clothes cafes and the iconic Sign of the Tahake it flattens out into a nice steady climb to about 300 metres above sea level at the Sign of the Kiwi which provides magnificent views across Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps and to the south across Lyttelton Harbour.

From here it’s downhill towards Governors Bay and then a left turn towards Lyttelton. This is really nice rolling terrain which is quite quiet as the road beyond Lyttelton has been closed since the earthquakes so much of the traffic uses the Lyttelton tunnel rather than this piece of road.

Looking out across the harbour there are great views of Quail Island, named after the now extinct native Quail (koreke) by Captain William Mein Smith. The island has a fascinating history; it was originally used as a quarantine station and as a small leprosy colony by the early European settlers.

From 1934 till 1975 the Island was leased out for farming and was then converted to a recreational reserve. Today the focus is on restoring native vegetation and the island is home to loads of native birds and the rare white flippered little blue penguins.

Recently the Kiwi Ranger programme started up on the island, a fun and interactive programme initiated by the Department of Conservation (DOC) that incorporates various sites, such as national parks, ecosanctuaries, heritage centres and reserves across the country. Black Cat Cruises run trips to the island and it’s a good chance to take a lunch and swimming togs for a great family day out.

Once into Lyttelton it’s down to the harbour and jumping on board (with your bike) Black Cat Cruise’s Diamond Harbour Ferry. Legend has it that Diamond Harbour got its name because one of the early settlers observed the sun reflecting on the water and thought it looked like a thousand shining diamonds. There’s no doubt that Diamond Harbour remains one of the sunniest and unspoilt destinations on Banks Peninsula and the ferry ride only takes five minutes across the harbour.

From Diamond Harbour, you ride east along some lovely rolling terrain until you descend into Purau and its very nice bay. Then it’s all uphill for a while with a long climb up the Purau Port Levy Road. Once at the top it’s a fast descent down into Port Levy – watch for the tight hairpin halfway down – and onto a gravel section made ‘infamous’ in the 90s by legendary road cyclist Brian Fowler who used to come the other way on long training rides during his tour winning days in the Tour of Southland.

It’s mostly hard packed gravel and mud which is just as well as it’s a steep five kilometre climb up to over 600 metres up Wild Cattle Hill. After riding through the barren hills scattered with sheep and some trees there is another descent of five kilometres and it’s finally back onto sealed road again at Pigeon Bay.

Pigeon Bay is usually a magnificent turquoise colour and a good spot for stopping to take in the views and get some food and drinks on board before another tough climb up the Pigeon Bay Road for six kilometres to the rim of the Akaroa crater and the Summit Road again.

Once again there are magnificent views, again in most directions; down into Duvauchelle Bay, back into Pigeon Bay and up Akaroa Harbour. Turning left and heading south along the Summit Road you are once again on the final quarter of the route used for Le Race, including a climb up to 700 metres and a head rush of a downhill down Long Bay Road into Akaroa, the South Island’s oldest colonial town and New Zealand’s sole French Settlement.

First stop is a good local cafe for food and coffee, then a chance to kick back and reflect on an awesome day out on the bike. While in Akaroa it would be a shame not to stay and check out the harbour the following day. Black Cat have been cruising the waters of Banks Peninsula for more than 26 years and is a must see Akaroa activity so finding their office in the Main Street or on the wharf is a good idea.

They know all there is to know about Akaroa Harbour and the diversity of marine wildlife, birdlife and its volcanic origins. You can swim with hector’s dolphins year round, or do an Akaroa Harbour Nature cruise. Black Cat Cruises helps create some of the most memorable experiences to be had on the water anywhere on New Zealand’s Canterbury coastline, and great way to round off two fantastic days on Bank Peninsula. If you are super keen you can always ride back to Christchurch via Hill Top and Little River on the main Christchurch to Akaroa Highway – its only another 85 kilometres.

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Cruise ships in Akaroa 2012/13

Posted on December 10, 2012 by Blackcat

Cruise ships in Akaroa

Just a few years ago it would be hard to imagine a summer where 86 cruise ships would visit Akaroa Harbour. Akaroa always had a handful of small ships anchor in the bay and shuttle customers into the township.

The big quake of February 2011 was centred not too far from Lyttelton port and it’s remarkable the port has stayed open for its core shipping business, but the Cruise ships have been forced elsewhere so step up Akaroa!

Lyttelton will probably again be Canterbury’s main port of call for Cruise ships one day, but the port has already announced they can’t welcome ships in 2013/14 and its hoped that even when the port reopens that some ships will retain Akaroa as a Canterbury stopover.

Continue reading →

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Quail Island and the new Kiwi Ranger program

Posted on December 3, 2012 by Blackcat

on the 9th of December 2012 a new Kiwi Ranger program will be launched on Quail Island.  Quail Island is a very special place just 15 minutes by ferry from Lyttelton Harbour which is just a 15 minute drive from central Christchurch.

here is a quick video showing highlights of the island and the program which is for all ages to enjoy:     Quail Island and the Kiwi Ranger program

Research shows that childhood experiences with nature plays a critical role in determining life attitudes, knowledge and behaviors towards the environment.  Kiwi Ranger is affordable fun for families – free in most places, or a gold coin donation in others.
Kiwi Ranger is a great way for families to explore new places together and learn something as well as having heaps of fun and earning a cool badge!

Kiwi Ranger guides families to make the most of their visit, by taking it beyond a mere walk in the park, to an experience worth remembering and treasuring.

It aims to encourage children to explore and experience the natural local environment, to develop a sense of wonder and sense of place, alongside their families.

In a world that is becoming increasingly disconnected from nature, we want to help families to fall in love with our natural world again.

By developing a strong network of Kiwi Ranger places, we hope to encourage families to build on their experiences, and go to more places, try new things, collect a new badge!

Kiwi Ranger is a fun, interactive programme for kids of all ages – from 3 to 103!
The programme started in the South Island but is expanding nationally from early next year.
Each site has its own booklet full of fun activities and walks to do. Completing the activities earns you a badge – unique to each location – and the title of Kiwi Ranger.

Kiwi Ranger is currently run from six national parks; Paparoa, Westland, Nelson Lakes, Mt Aspiring, Arthur’s Pass and Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, as well as Denniston Historic Reserve and Orokanui Ecosanctuary near Dunedin. Two new sites – Totaranui Great Walk Campsite and Otamahua/Quail Island near Christchurch – are being launched this December.

Check out the Kiwi Ranger website to find out about other Kiwi Ranger locations, where to pick up your booklets and to print out some other activities at www.kiwiranger.org.nz

Your adventure will get you exploring the island, reflect on a living a lonely island life with no TV or Xbox, imagine a living vessel at the ship’s graveyard, compete in the race to the pole, explore the traditional values of plants to providing nature’s services or be inspired to become a ‘word witch’ in the place that Margaret Mahy wrote.

Ōtamahua / Quail Island Kiwi Ranger was developed by DOC and Shades of Green, Rapaki Runanga, the Otamahua/Quail Island Restoration Trust and Black Cat Cruises.

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The Breeze 64

Posted on November 19, 2012 by Blackcat

Read The Breeze newsletter for the latest updates and information from Black Cat Cruises

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Cruise Ship Schedule 2012/2013

Posted on August 24, 2012 by Blackcat

The Cruise Ship Season in Akaroa begins again in October 2012.

For more information click on the link below.

Akaroa Cruise Ship Schedule 2012-2013

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The Breeze 63

Posted on August 16, 2012 by Hairy

The weather may feel a bit wintery but we’ve taken the last few months to get ourselves ready for the upcoming season. After all, spring is just around the corner. Below are announcements of new projects coming this season and some of the highlights of the winter. Thanks for reading.

Cheers Paul

Major Akaroa renovations

Over the winter we have completely stripped and upgraded our two Akaroa shops. There is a whole new feel and look to both the ticketing and the retail presence. We’d love to hear your feedback next time you are in Akaroa. Amongst other things you will see a new layout, new colours, big TV screens, new retail displays and some new signage.

Continue reading →

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Christmas Party venues & ideas in Christchurch

Posted on August 3, 2012 by Blackcat

Here is a list of interesting things to do in Christchurch if you are planning and organising a staff or office Christmas Party this year.  If you think you have an idea to add to this list please add them in the comments below.

PARTY BOAT CRUISE

Canterbury Cat

Just 15 minutes from Christchurch lies Lyttelton harbour.  Brush away those cobwebs, get outdoors in the fresh sea breeze, watch the sun set while sipping a glass of your favourite brew.  Dinner cruises are very popular for groups of over 30 people and need to be booked in early to early ensure your favourite date. The perfect solution for that end of year office party.

Lyttelton Harbour at sunset

The Black Cat Cruises catamaran comfortably holds up to 80 people.  Lyttelton Harbour provides many sheltered bays and inlets to ensure a smooth calm environment and the natural beauty of Banks Peninsula guarantees an unforgetable event. A 2 course spit roast dinner on board is the most popular choice for groups and we are fully licenced.


A PRIVATE CHOCOLATE EVENT!

Hot Chocolate

SHE CHOCOLAT is a restaurant and chocolatier situated in Governors Bay with fabulous views of the harbour. private chocolate event customised just for you and the team – yum!

Combines chocolate, food, wine, chocolate play and other surprises into one event.  Fun informative and definitely memorable, be entertained by Irishman-Declan, a qualified corporate trainer as well as being  passionate about chocolate of course! They can cater for groups of between 8-50 people.  Early bookings are essential especially if you have a large group.

Adrenalin Forest

THE ADRENALIN FOREST

How far will you go?! Located near Spencer Park the Adrenalin Forest offers the most amazing team building “out of your comfort zone” activity available.  The activity is a series of obstacles, flying foxes and tarzan jumps set in the forest.  Test your balance, agility and fight gravity as you make your way around the course.  Fun and challenging at the same time.  They can cater for groups up to 100 people at a time.  A BBQ is available on site and flag races can be arranged to add to the competition!! Night time options are available with head lamps, adds to the excitement and adrenalin!

Other options include:-

Enthuse is a media and events business and can help you create a memorable Christmas Party or event from planning to theming and providing the actual entertainment.

Mobile laser Skirmish A new leisure and recreational activity that comes to your venue

feel free to add more information in the comments section.


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The Breeze 62

Posted on May 28, 2012 by Hairy

We are starting to head into our traditional off season but we’ll be out on the harbours every day. Below are some highlights from the season just completed including some of our best photos, a unique marriage proposal and our on going efforts to protect Hector’s dolphins. Thanks for reading.

Cheers Paul

Photo of the season

Every day we have cameras out on our swim boats capturing a range of amazing photos and here is a great shot which may very well be the best photo of the season. We took this recently on a late autumn evening, glassy water, soft light and a perfect compilation of swimmer and dolphin….awesome!
Continue reading →

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Tourism Operator talks to dolphins

Posted on May 1, 2012 by Blackcat

Dolphi Chat BCC2 April 12 Amazing technology previously only available in the scientific community that allows humans to talk to dolphins is being launched by leading New Zealand tourism operator Black Cat Cruises.

New analysis of results from a 1970s experiment found that Dolphins ‘talk’ to each other using the same process to make their high-pitched sounds as humans. After more than a decade of experimentation and testing by marine scientists in the United States the technology is being launched commercially for the first time anywhere in the world by Black Cat Cruises in Akaroa.  watch the video

Continue reading →

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Christchurch is not broken!

Posted on February 27, 2012 by Blackcat

While many visitors to Akaroa are aware that things are still operational over the hills in Christchurch, it seems that some have interpreted the redirection of tours around the outskirts of the city to mean that the entire city has been flattened by last year’s earthquakes.

So we thought it was worthwhile to clear up any misunderstanding and remind people exactly what is still running in the garden city. Continue reading →

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The Breeze 61

Posted on February 19, 2012 by Hairy

Thanks for taking some time to scan our latest news and events. Below you will find some information on the biggest dolphins on them all – the mighty Orca through to the smallest – hectors dolphins calves. There are also details of local events in Diamond Harbour and Akaroa along with confirmation of our top rating as voted by members of the AA.

Cheers Paul

Orca visits much more frequent

We started cruising Banks Peninsula in 1985 and over the next 21 years we reckon we had only 5 visits in total from Orca. So why have we had 5 visits in the last 12 months? More than likely it’s related to Orca chasing food in Akaroa and Lyttelton harbours. They sure do scare our local population of Hectors dolphins though and that’s not surprising! Click here for a blog including views from marine scientist Liz Slooten.

Continue reading →

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Lyttelton’s Best Attractions

Posted on February 9, 2012 by Blackcat

Lyttelton is just 13km from Christchurch and is a fantastic place to visit especially on a weekend.  Take the number 28 bus from Christchurch or its an easy 15 minute drive from central Christchurch.  This quirky historical town has seen much damage since the earthquakes in Canterbury but is definitely on the mend.  The locals are vibrant, fiercly loyal and very proactive when it comes to keeping their community alive and consequently there is always something going on in and around the township.

13km from Christchurch

Lyttelton Harbour

The Farmers market every Saturday morning from 10am-1pm is a must do and has become extremely popular with people travelling from afar to buy and sample delicious local goodies.  When you are done with purchasing your produce and fresh food for the week you can amble along to Oxford Street where there is a large community garage sale which also runs from 10am-1pm.

From there you will most probably be in need of lunch and refreshments to replenish your energy for the afternoons attractions.  Head to the Fishermans Wharf on Norwich Quay which is open 7 days a week for the best fish & chips or seafood chowder.  Or walk to Corsair Bay to Freemans Restaurant.

The afternoons activities could include a visit to the Torpedo Boat Museum open Tuesday/thursday/Saturday & Sunday or play a game of petanque on London Street.

15 minute ferry ride from Lyttelton

Quail Island lookout

One of best things to do in Lyttelton in the summer is to take a ferry from B Jetty on the wharf to Quail Island.  Black Cat Cruises run this ferry daily from October to the end of April.  For more on Quail Island click here

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10 Reasons to visit Diamond Harbour this summer

Posted on February 2, 2012 by Blackcat

Diamond Harbour is one of the sunniest and unspoilt destinations on Banks Peninsula and is great for a day trip. Getting there is easy, the best option is to take the Diamond Harbour Ferry from Lyttelton harbour (departs from B Jetty).  Black Cat Cruises run the ferry over there on a regular basis throughout the day.  check out the website for timetable information and more.

The Black Diamond boat

Diamond Harbour ferry video

Top things to do while there:-

Road and mountain biking has become one of the most popular activities for New Zealanders, mainly due to our fabulous scenery and relatively quiet roads and of course easy access to the countryside.  Take your bike on the ferry from Lyttelton (an extra $2 fee applies) and bike around Diamond Harbour and back to Lyttelton again.

Walking would be a close second to biking for most loved activities for locals and overseas visitors or maybe its the other way round! walk from the jetty to the fabulous new look Diamond Harbour Store, the food and coffee are quickly becoming legendary.  Once you have refreshed and re-energised there are plenty of wonderful walks to choose from including Mt Herbert (you will need all day for this one).  Ask the wonderful friendly staff at the store to point you in the right direction.

If excercising is not your thing, there are four wonderful beaches to choose from, Diamond Harbour beach, Paradise Bay, Purau and Camp Bay.  Pack a picnic, take the togs and relax!

There is a beautiful golf course at Charteris Bay with some wonderful views across the harbour and looking back at Lyttelton.

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Orca Visits to Banks Peninsula

Posted on January 9, 2012 by Blackcat

Why have pods of Orca been seen more often in Akaroa and Lyttelton Harbours lately?

orca-pod

Black Cat have been cruising around Akaroa Harbour since 1985 and the original skipper, Ron Bingham, recalls seeing Orca only 5 times from 1985 to 2006, a period of 21 years cruising. In the last 12 months alone we’ve seen pods on no fewer than 5 occasions in Akaroa or Lyttelton.

Orca are sometimes known as Killer whales but that’s only because they were sometimes known to actually hunt and kill large baleen whales, i.e. killer of whales. They are actually the classified as a dolphin! There are no known reports of Orca attacking humans in the wild. Though there have been some instances where Orca in captivity have killed or injured their trainers. Continue reading →

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What’s open in Akaroa this Christmas Day

Posted on December 22, 2011 by Blackcat

Akaroa Christmas Day

Open:

The Akaroa Visitor Centre wharf cabin will be open from 8am until 3pm.

Retail:

  • New Zealand Inspired (10.00am-5.00pm)
  • Fire & Ice
  • Pot Pourri (10.00am-5.00pm)
  • Mr Whippy Truck
  • Ma Cherie (9.00am-5.30pm)
  • Studio 67(9.00am-5.30pm)
  • Faultline Gallery (9.30am – 4.30pm)
  • The Akaroa Supply Store (10.00am-4.00pm)
  • The Koru Gallery (9.30am-5.00pm)
  • The Weighbridge (10.00am-4.00pm)
  • Woolshed Gallery
  • Woolworx
  • Beach Road (9.00-4.00pm)
  • Akaroa Chemist (10.00am-3.00pm)
  • The Akaroa Blue Pearl Gallery
  • Black Cat Beach Road Shop
  • Hetties

Activities:

  • The Giants House (1.00pm-4.00pm)
  • Shamarra Alpacas-Tour leaving Akaroa at 12.30pm. 2 hour long trip. Can take 6 persons. Doing own pick up from wharf
  • Black Cat Cruises- Both the Akaroa Harbour Cruise and Swimming with Dolphins operatingCruise 9am (Charter), 11am, 1.30pm. Christmas day prices: $85 Adults and $30 Children.

    Swimming with Dolphins 9am, 12pm and 2pm. Christmas day prices apply.

  • Akaroa Jet-4 trips, at 11.30am, 1pm, 2.15pm, 3.30pm. 1 hour long trips. $64 for adults. $34 for children. Can take 18 persons per trip
  • A Class Sailing-2 tours. 2.5 hour tour. $75pp. No children under 12. 10.30am tour (10.15 boarding). 1.30pm tour (1.15 boarding). 20 spaces per trip
  • Fox 2 Sailing-10.30am & 1.30pm tour. $70 per adult, $30 per child. Can take 30 per trip.
  • Akaroa Shuttle-10.30 am bus service from Akaroa to Christchurch, return at 3 pm. Akaroa arrival; 4.30pm  37 seats available). 1 hour tours- 9.30 am, 11am, 12.30 pm & 2 pm. $25pp per tour. The tour goes up to the Summit Road, Robinsons Bay and then back to Akaroa
  • A Classic Ride- Honda Goldwing & Sidecar tours

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The Breeze 60

Posted on November 28, 2011 by Hairy

Let me be one of the first to wish you a merry Christmas! We are gearing up for our busy season in what will truly go down as a year never to be forgotten. I’d like to thank you for supporting Black Cat over 2011. There has been a lot of TV coverage for Akaroa recently with whales, French rugby supporters, a world famous conservationist and an Aussie weather man all visiting our town. Along with the cruise ships it’s sure to create lots of buzz for our summer season. We are looking forward in a positive manner and proceeding with a staff head count at only marginally behind a normal year. More info here in this link.  We hope to see you out on the water this summer.

Cheers Paul

Whales Honeymoon in Akaroa

It was great to see two rare Southern Right whales hang out in Akaroa Harbour for a week. Whale sightings have become more common for us recently but these ones parked up for a 7 days on an apparent honeymoon. Our team thought the male was interested in mating and the female not so much. Her behaviour included tail slapping, and swimming upside down. This behaviour is like saying ‘no thanks’. The male response was lots of breaching (jumping out of the water) and hanging about. Does all this sound familiar?! The whales attracted national media interest and here is TV3’s news report.

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13 Things to do in Akaroa – Activities

Posted on November 13, 2011 by Blackcat

If you’re looking for somewhere to holiday in the South Island, Akaroa is a great place to spend a few days. In a post-earthquake Canterbury, Akaroa is unharmed and is a great place to go to get away from it all. Come try out the many Akaroa activities.

Banks Peninsula Walking Track

These walks are a great way to explore the Banks Peninsula area and there are different options for walkers of all levels. All tracks start and finish in Akaroa and trampers can choose a two or four day walk, staying in huts along the way. This sort of walking holiday is an ideal way to experience the remote sights of the Banks Peninsula.

banks-peninsula-track

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Things to do in Christchurch Post-Earthquake

Posted on November 8, 2011 by Blackcat

Here’s an updated list of what’s open in Christchurch after the earthquake – and also in the surrounding area. If you know other things please add them into the comments below so everyone knows!

Pop Up Mall

A revamped version of the Cashel Street mall was reopened at the end of October 2011. Temporary shops made from shipping containers make a colourful addition to city’s centre as it gradually reopens. The mall is home to 27 shops and is worth going to look at even if shopping is not on your agenda.

pop-up-mall

Black Cat Cruises

Stationed out in Akaraoa Harbour, the daily Black Cat cruise is a fantastic way to explore the area. There are cruises which are the best way to see the volcanic outer harbor and there is also the chance to see dolphins, seals and penguins in their natural habitat. There are also tours where you can swim with the dolphins. Just over an hour’s drive from Christchurch, Black Cat cruises are a perfect activity for all ages, and if you want to bring the kids along there are great rates for children.

black-cat-cruises

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Romantic Akaroa

Posted on September 27, 2011 by Blackcat

Planning a romantic weekend in Akaroa?

Peaceful Akaroa

Akaroa is the perfect place to go to for a romantic escape from the stresses of city life. The town has retained its ‘French Village’ character with many colonial-style buildings and French street names and throw mix in the ambience of a small seaside settlement with lots of cafes, restaurants and galleries and it’s just made for a lovely night away.

Driving over from Christchurch its worth stopping at Little River and visiting the cafe and art gallery, then once up the top of the Hill Top Pass Akaroa is revealed in the distance with quite an amazing view.

There are many great Akaroa activities – The key is staying somewhere that fits the bill and the Akaroa Country House and Tree Crop Farm are two very special spots.

Akaroa Country House

Akaroa Country House is very private with the cottage two hundred metres away from the main house down a pathway. The cottage is beside a small stream and has an outside bath, perfect for candlelight stargazing and is situated up secluded Takamatua Valley, amongst the native forest.

If you want something a little different Tree Crop Farm is well worth a visit. Also set in amongst the lovely native forest, many of the individual cabins do not have power, but they do have loads of candles and big fireplaces.

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The Breeze 58

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Hairy

Spring is here and its time to look forward to summer. Over the winter months we’ve been planning and preparing to welcome visitors this season. Around 80 cruise ships have selected Akaroa as their Canterbury base this season which should really add some buzz to the town. Of course the buzz right now is about the world cup so we are wishing our boys all the best and of course the profile the event will create around the world will be huge. Also in this Breeze are details of our new treasure hunt, Lyttelton to France cruise and our latest promotions. Thanks for reading in advance.

Cheers Paul

Dolphins up close

If you have ever wondered how close we get to the rare Hector’s dolphins then this picture sums it up! So close in fact that not all of the dolphin fitted into the frame with its leap almost knocking the camera out of the guide’s hands. In truth this is a little unusual. Like us, teenage dolphins can get a bit excited sometimes and this one may have slightly misjudged his jump. An incredible sight for all on board though.

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What is seasickness, how can you avoid it, and what to do when you get it?

Posted on August 15, 2011 by Blackcat

One of the biggest and most annoying irritations when going on a cruise or swimming with dolphins is seasickness.  Fortunately Black Cat Cruises operate in the sheltered waters of Akaroa Harbour, but sometimes when the swell is particularly large, or the dolphins we are trying to locate are slightly out of the harbour, we encounter turbulence and the resulting seasickness for some of our clients.

As a sufferer myself, it is extremely annoying when you seem to be the only one on the boat going green!! .  So I decided to look into this phenomenon and see if I can pass on any words of wisdom to help prevent seasickness for my fellow sufferers.

Firstly, what is it? Motion sickness is a conflict between your senses.  The fluid filled canal in your inner ear tells your brain that you are moving while your eyes tell your brain that you are not!!  That conflict can cause your body to be out of balance.

What to do to try and avoid it: –

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East Coast of the South Island Sightseeing Guide

Posted on July 28, 2011 by Blackcat

The East Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is a place of contrast, beauty and history. Sightseeing options during your holidays here range from colonial towns and sleepy Maori fishing villages, to vibrant cities such as Dunedin and Christchurch. Things to do on the South Island East Coast include getting close to nature, wine tasting or getting a taste of history.

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Whale Watching in Akaroa

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Blackcat

With a coastline of approximately 15,000 kilometres New Zealanders have always had and continue to have a close affinity with the ocean. Working within a company whose occupation it is to take passengers out on harbour cruises and swimming with the dolphins we the staff at Black Cat Cruises are at the heart of it all and have been fortunate to have had special encounters with some of the less common, larger marine creatures.

The latest exciting visitors to the peninsula waters have been the migrating Humpback whales. During the summer months the Humpback whales are down in their feeding grounds in Antarctic waters but during the winter months they make their way to their tropical South Pacific breeding grounds. Passing by in New Zealand’s coastal waters provides opportunities for Kiwis and ocean-goers alike to have close encounters with these whales. Humpback whales are easily identified by their distinctive knobbly dorsal fin, large pectoral fins (their scientific name Megaptera novaeangliae means big wings of New England) and heads covered with bumps (tubercles). They can grow to lengths of 15 metres, weigh between 30 – 40 tonnes and are known for their ‘singing’ and playful acrobatics. They are a baleen whale feeding by surging through the water with an open mouth then filtering the krill and fish from the water through their baleen (long keratin plates hanging from the top of the mouth).

Humpbacks are a stocky whale, meaning they are generally slow moving which not only makes them perfect for whale watching but made them a popular target for whalers in New Zealand waters during the 1800 and 1900’s. The Humpbacks were such an easy target that the reduction in their population reached a point that there were no individuals seen passing through the Cook Strait; normally a regular path made annually on their way north. Whaling stopped in New Zealand in 1964 and since then their population has been increasing with as many as 43 individual Humpbacks seen during a four week survey in the Cook Strait in 2010 and a record number of 73 for the 2011 survey.

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The Breeze 57

Posted on June 20, 2011 by Hairy

The shortest day is nearly upon us and whilst many are hoping it’s about to snow the fine weather has been great for cruising. We’ve had some special sightings of whales recently and hosted some VIPs including the former mayor of San Francisco and a NZ sports legend. We’re also looking forward to next summer already with many cruise ships confirming Akaroa as their Canterbury stop and also plans for a huge French Fest. In the meantime thanks for your continued support. We are operating right through the winter season every day.

Cheers Paul

Whalely Good Month

groupWhales

Humpback whales have been spotted off the Akaroa heads three times in the last week. Southern Ocean humpbacks migrate thousands of kilometres between Antarctica and sub-tropical waters this time of year. The route takes then right past Banks Peninsula. On one of the trips we had 16 travel agents from America on board providing an unforgettable cruise. View the whale video and read the coverage from The Press.

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11 Things to do With Kids in Akaroa

Posted on April 5, 2011 by Blackcat

I grew up in Akaroa so I’m really surprised when I hear people say there is not much for children to do in the town, and that the hot pools of Hamner are a better bet. Sure the pools are a must do but you can’t go there every weekend and Akaroa offers something different for families.

Now I have my own family, I can show them the hours of fun that can be had in and around Akaroa. Here are my top tips for entertaining the kids with Akaroa activities, many of these are free. Continue reading →

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Snooze and Cruise Option for Akaroa

Posted on April 3, 2011 by Blackcat

Christchurch Airport to Akaroa


Despite Akaroa’s close proximity to Christchurch, and our location on the other side of Banks Peninsula from Lyttelton, the resort township is unaffected by the Christchurch earthquake. All the cafes, restaurants, shops and accommodation businesses are operating as usual, with all the charm and atmosphere visitors have come to expect.

At Black Cat we are keen to see visitors who may have originally planned to spend time in the Garden City come directly to Akaroa to relax and enjoy what our beautiful location has to offer. Browse some reviews and comments about our lovely town. Continue reading →

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Swimming with wild dolphins

Posted on March 27, 2011 by Blackcat

By Deneice Athurston

I admit it – I’m a dolphin swim junkie and probably nowhere on the planet can I indulge this passion as much as in New Zealand. What makes New Zealand so special with regards to swimming with wild dolphins is that there are so many companies to choose from and each offer something a little different depending on where they are located and the species of dolphin that hang around that area. Continue reading →

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Shaken but not diSTIRbed

Posted on March 3, 2011 by Blackcat

There are two things that struck me most when the devasting earthquake in Christchurch

The peaceful seaside village of Akaroa

struck on the 22nd of February.  The first was how powerful it is and how powerless you feel.  There is nothing to do but sit (or hide) and wait until it is over.  Then there’s the reality that hits almost immediately that you are still alive and panic sets in as you fumble with your cell phone and try to get hold of loved ones.  It took me what seemed like forever to get the presence of mind to remember how to work the phone, my fingers were trembling so much and I temporarily forgot how to send a txt!!

The second thing is the randomness of it.  There is no warning, and how bazaar is it that Continue reading →

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