FAQ
Do I Bring a Torch?
Are there dangerous animals at Orama?
Is there a Shopping Mall or McDonalds at Port Fitzroy?
Do I need to bring a rain coat & good walking shoes?
Is a fishing rod useful at Orama ?
Medicine / prescriptions /Doctor
Telephones / cell phones / Internet– can I make a phone call?
Washing clothes – how do I do that on holiday ?
Where can I cook my meals ?
[1] Do I bring a torch ?
Yes, a torch is essential. Orama generates its own electricity, as most people do on the island. Our generator is generally turned off at 10.30 pm. although many of our accommodations have alternative battery lights some do not and a torch is always a good idea when walking between buildings.
[2] Are there dangerous animals at Orama ?
There are a lot of unique birds and animals in and around the Oama property. There are no poisonous or dangerous animals that would cause any harm.
[3] Is there a Shopping Mall or McDonalds at Port Fitzroy?
Orama has a small shop for basic items & there is a store at Port Fitzroy – approxiamately 15 minutes by car.
While you can buy an icecream and great hamburgers, at Port Fitzroy there are no other shops, unless you travel to the southern end of Great Barrier Island.
[4] Do I need to bring a rain coat & good walking shoes ?
In the summer time a raincoat usually is not required, however sun glasses & suntan lotion will be essential.
Good walking shoes are a must if you want to tramp to Mount Hobsons summit or visit secluded beaches far from any road or house.
[5] Is a fishing rod useful at Orama?
If you love fishing, then absolutely bring your line and some hooks & sinkers, we sell bait from our store. – (I won’t tell you were to fish as that’s my secret).
We have wharf, beach & rock fishing opportunities when the tide is right or you may like to hire a dinghy from OPC.
[6] Medicine / prescriptions /Doctor
I would suggest you visit the chemist at home before you come to Orama as Port Fitzroy does not have a chemist shop – any repeat prescriptions would have to be sent off to Auckland.
Port Fitzroy does have a District Nurse, the local doctor holds a clinic at Port Fitzroy on Wednesdays, otherwise there is a medical centre 45 min. away at Claris. Claris also has a dentist available in the event of an urgent problem. Bring you own first aid kit.
[7] Telephones / Cell phones /Internet
Often the best choice on holiday is to leave the cell phone at home – but in case you need to make a call there is a Telecom Card phone at Orama.
If you want to leave a contact number for emergency use only they could telephone 09 429-0063 and request that you be given a message [ this number is on answer phone at times ].
If you bring a cell phone there is reception – Some find text messaging works well at Orama from the beach front. If you need voice reception on you cell phone ask someone on staff where to stand down by the beach front or which track to climb to access the best voice reception location.
Orama does have wireless internet available, but you will need to register and pay at reception to receive a pass code.
[8] Washing clothes – how do I do that on holiday ?
Orama has a large laundry, that you can use when it is available – its is coin operated with washers & dryers. Soap powder is included in the charge & usually there is line space for drying. Check with out laundry supervisor before you begin.
[9] Where can I cook my meals ?
At Orama there is a big commercial kitchen and two smaller guest kitchens. Guest are not allowed to enter or use the main kitchen due to rules – (both ours & Government).
But – if you are cooking for yourself when you stay at Orama you can use the guest kitchen, pots & utensils are provided but you must clean up after your meal.
Please feel free to contact Orama - Ph 09 429-0063 – email info@orama.org.nz
if you have any other question you’d like answered before you come and stay with us on you holiday