Why NZ is a great place for bird watching
New Zealand’s isolation has given rise to an extraordinary array of NZ native birds, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. In fact, we have around 206 species of native birds here in Aotearoa.
The lush forests, expansive coastlines, and untouched offshore islands provide sanctuary to an impressive variety of birdlife. From the iconic kiwi to the world's only alpine parrot, the kea, bird watchers can revel in the thrill of spotting species that are as charismatic as they are rare.
Whether you're a seasoned birder with a keen eye for the kingfisher bird in NZ or a curious traveller eager to spot the charming New Zealand fantails and morepork owls, a feathered friend is waiting at every turn.
With a campervan hire, you can follow your own bespoke travel itinerary. Plan to wake up near native bush for the early morning chorus or to be parked up for the golden hour when birds are most active. The flexibility of travelling by camper or motorhome allows for spontaneous detours to reserves or remote forest trails where the fantails and tūī play.
What kind of birds can be seen in NZ
For those setting out in their campervan to explore the natural beauty of Aotearoa, the variety of birds you can encounter is truly remarkable. In areas such as parks and reserves, you'll easily spot native birds like the vibrant pukeko with its striking blue plumage, the melodious tūī bird, and the cheerful fantail or pīwakawaka, fluttering about with its distinctive fan-shaped tail.
Some native birds are slightly more elusive and require a keen eye and a bit of patience to spot. The kea, known for its intelligence and playful nature, can often be seen in alpine regions. The kākāpō – a critically endangered nocturnal parrot – is a rare treasure, protected on offshore islands. The ruru or morepork, New Zealand's only surviving native owl, can sometimes be heard in the forest at dusk and throughout the night. The majestic albatross can be seen soaring over the ocean, while the kōtare or kingfisher can be spotted perched quietly before diving for its prey. And let’s not forget the charming sight of penguins, which can be seen waddling along the shores in certain coastal areas.
Around 46 per cent of New Zealand's birds are native, which means they are not found anywhere else in the world. Alongside these unique species, there are also introduced birds that have adapted to the local environment, and migratory birds that visit New Zealand's shores, adding to the diversity of bird life that can be seen.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
How to bird watch in NZ
Keen to see some of New Zealand’s unique birdlife on your New Zealand road trip? Here are some tips to help you get started.
The best places for bird watching in NZ
While you can spot birdlife throughout New Zealand, there are a few areas that are particularly good for native bird watching.
Parks and mountains
New Zealand’s landscape is dotted with national parks, reserves, and mountainous regions. Each offers a unique backdrop for bird enthusiasts. With no shortage of green spaces, you're never far from a bird watching paradise. Even stepping outside your campervan at a campsite or holiday park, you're likely to be greeted by a variety of feathered friends.
Renowned for its golden beaches and clear waters, Abel Tasman National Park is a hotspot for birdlife. The park's coastal track is not only a journey through stunning scenery but also a chance to observe birds in their natural habitat. Here, the air is filled with the songs of tūī and bellbirds, and friendly peeps of fantails as they flit through the canopy.
Further south, the rugged mountains of Fiordland National Park are home to the mischievous kea, the world's only alpine parrot. These intelligent birds are known for their curiosity and are a favourite among visitors. The park's dense forests also provide shelter to the elusive mohua or yellowhead, adding a splash of colour to the greenery.
For those venturing to the North Island, Tongariro National Park offers a dramatic landscape of volcanic features. Here, the blue duck or whio, a bird adapted to life in fast-flowing waters, can be spotted. The park's alpine meadows are also frequented by the New Zealand pipit or pīhoihoi, often seen darting among the tussocks.
Beach or wetland areas
The beaches and wetlands of New Zealand are not just picturesque landscapes for holidaymakers; they are vital habitats for a host of NZ native bird species. Many of New Zealand's birds make their homes along the sweeping coastlines and in the lush wetlands, with some species choosing these tranquil spots for nesting.
One notable haven is the Waituna Lagoon in Southland, part of a significant wetland system that has been recognised as a Wetland of International Importance. This area is a sanctuary for birds such as the scaup, also known as the black teal, and the marsh crake. The lagoon's diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of birdlife, making it a must-visit for any bird watching enthusiast.
Other coastal areas like the Miranda Shorebird Centre on the Firth of Thames provide a home for migratory birds such as the bar-tailed godwit. This incredible bird makes the epic journey from Alaska to New Zealand each year. The centre offers a unique opportunity to observe these travellers along with resident waders like the wrybill, known for its uniquely curved bill.
As you travel in your campervan, keep an eye out for signage indicating nesting areas, especially during breeding seasons. These signs are there to protect our feathered friends and their young, ensuring bird watchers can enjoy their presence for years to come.
Reserves and small islands
New Zealand's commitment to conservation can be seen in its numerous reserves and secluded islands. Many of these have become sanctuaries for endangered and less common birds. These areas are often heavily protected, with careful measures in place to ensure the survival and thriving of native species.
Parking up your campervan and joining guided bird watching tours to some of these protected areas can be a highlight of a New Zealand travel experience. Kapiti Island, for instance, is a stunning nature reserve off the coast of the North Island. Here, the air is alive with the calls of kākāriki (parakeets), kōkako, and the occasional boom of the takahē.
Another gem is Tiritiri Matangi Island, a wildlife sanctuary in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf. With some of the most intensive conservation work in New Zealand, it's a place where you can encounter flocks of tūī, the North Island robin or toutouwai, and takahē among others, in their natural, predator-free environment.
Further south (in fact, as far south as you can go!), Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara is a predator-free reserve. Nestled in Stewart Island/Rakiura's Paterson Inlet, Ulva Island is home to some of New Zealand's rarest and most endangered species. One of the most thrilling experiences on Ulva Island is the chance to spot the elusive kiwi in its natural habitat. These iconic birds are usually nocturnal, but on Ulva Island, they can often be seen during the day, foraging in the undergrowth. The sight of a kiwi in the wild is a moment to treasure, a true New Zealand encounter that embodies the spirit of the land.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Sanctuaries
For those with a particular feathered friend in mind, New Zealand's bird sanctuaries offer the perfect setting to get up close with some of the country's most incredible and rare birds.
In the heart of the Waikato region lies Maungatautari, an ecological island providing a sanctuary for an array of native birdlife. This predator-proof enclosure has become a stronghold for the conservation of some of New Zealand's most precious birds. Among the feathered residents, the kākāpō finds refuge amidst the lush foliage of this protected haven. This nocturnal, flightless parrot is one of our most critically endangered birds.
Located in the capital city of Wellington, Zealandia is a groundbreaking eco-sanctuary. Enclosed by a predator-proof fence, the sanctuary offers a living ecosystem where birds such as the little spotted kiwi, tīeke (saddleback), and hihi (stitchbird) can thrive.
Another sanctuary of note is the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre in the Wairarapa region. This reserve is dedicated to the protection and restoration of New Zealand's wildlife. It is also home to the white kiwi, a rare genetic variant of the North Island brown kiwi. Here, the kākā, a forest parrot, can often be seen flying overhead or playing in the trees.
For a truly immersive experience, the Orokonui Ecosanctuary near Dunedin offers visitors the chance to encounter a variety of birds in a vast expanse of native forest. From the call of the kōkako to the sight of the kārearea (New Zealand falcon) soaring above, Orokonui is a testament to the beauty and diversity of New Zealand's avian inhabitants.
The best time to birdwatch
Timing can be everything when it comes to bird watching, and in New Zealand, each season offers its own special moments. Spring – from September to November – is particularly magical. During this time adult birds are joined by their young, offering a captivating insight into family life in the avian world.
Dawn often brings a flurry of activity as many birds are morning risers, making the early hours ideal for catching sight of a wide variety of species. The tūī and bellbird fill the morning air with their beautiful songs, while the fantail can be seen flitting about in search of breakfast.
As the sun sets, the nocturnal birds take their turn. The ruru or morepork owl, with its distinctive call, can often be heard calling after dark. For those keen to experience these twilight creatures, a quiet evening walk through the bush can be rewarding.
Coastal areas offer a different rhythm, dictated by the tides rather than the sun. Birds such as the bar-tailed godwit and variable oystercatcher can be seen foraging for food on the mudflats at low tide. This is a spectacle in itself, as the birds skilfully navigate the shoreline, their movements synchronised with the ebbing waters.
What you need for bird watching in NZ
A bird watching adventure in New Zealand is an exciting prospect, and having the right gear can make all the difference. Here's a quick guide to the essentials:
-
Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars is your most important tool. They bring distant birds into clear view, allowing you to appreciate the fine details of their plumage and behaviour without disturbing them.
-
Field Guide: A comprehensive field guide helps you identify the birds you encounter. Look for one that's specific to New Zealand to ensure it covers the unique species you're likely to see.
-
Camera: If you're keen to capture your finds, a camera with a good zoom or a telephoto lens is ideal. Remember to respect the birds' space – it's about preserving the moment without causing stress to the wildlife.
-
Appropriate clothing: New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and wear comfortable, waterproof footwear. Camouflage or muted colours can help you blend into the environment.
-
Sun protection: The sun in New Zealand can be harsh, so a hat and sunscreen are essential, even on cloudy days.
-
Insect repellent: Especially in wetland areas or during the evenings, insect repellent will make your birdwatching experience much more pleasant.
Image: Sarah Lemkus
Ready for some bird watching in the comfort of your camper?
Keen to set off on a bird watching adventure that you'll remember for a lifetime? It’s time to make it happen! From island sanctuaries to remote reserves, New Zealand’s beauty and birdsong are waiting to be discovered. Book your maui campervan online today.