Breeding areas
Open country (nests in trees) and coastal NZ, Chathams.
Breeding season
June to February
Dispersal migration
Only occasinally reported prior 1935. Now common throughout NZ. Vagrant elsewhere (eg Kermadecs, Snares, Auckland & Campbell Islands)
Share our passion and knowledge of this idyllic region. Book a tour with Abel Tasman Eco Tours and experience the slice of heaven that is the Abel Tasman National Park.
See New Zealand with the birding experts
Kotuku on Okarito LagoonExplore the Okarito Lagoon with us and see the incredible diversity of a landscape that sweeps from sea to mountains across New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland area
A private yellow-eyed penguin conservation area provides up close spectacular penguin viewing and excellent viewing of many other pelargic and land based species with small groups on the spectacular Otago Peninsula
To discover New Zealand’s unique bird-life and finest natural wonderlands, contact the specialists in custom designed birding tours for small groups, couples and individuals
See the "White flippered" (Canterbuy’s own variant of the Little penguin) in their natural environment and learn about our self funded conservation work
Embark on a unique multi-day voyage of discovery that very few New Zealanders get to experience
A warm current from the Australian Great Barrier Reef flows onto Stewart Island. This brings a much more diverse variety of marine creatures than would normally be found in waters of this latitude, a visit will have you wishing for more
We are passionate about our wildlife and environment. Receive personal attention in small groups from friendly, knowledgeable guides and enjoy tours that are generous in length with descriptive commentary on the behaviour and habits of birds.
Beaks and Feathers is a locally owned and operated guiding service on Stewart Island
Our holiday park is home to four of New Zealands rarest birds the North Island Brown kiwi, the North Island weka, fernbirds and the brown teal. You will hear the calls of kiwi, weka, morepork, pukeko and spur winged plover during your stay with us.
Dolphin watching and nature tours
Visit New Zealands only Kotuku, White Heron breeding area Learn about the majestic Kotuku and experience the magic of the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve Excellent birdwatching and photography opportunities
Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki is a 28-room nature Lodge in the untouched rainforest of the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area
Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass is a 24 room nature Lodge nestled in mountain beech forest on its own 3,000 hectare nature reserve/merino sheep station
A private yellow-eyed penguin conservation area provides up close spectacular penguin viewing and excellent viewing of many other pelargic and land based species with small groups on the spectacular Otago Peninsula