Duncan Watson
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South Island ▷ West Coast ▷ Okarito ▷
Okarito Kiwi Tours
The Okarito Brown Kiwi is a rare bird, and seeing a Kiwi of any time in its natural habitat (ie not in a Kiwi house at the zoo) is very difficult.
Ian's tour is to see the Kiwi in its natural habitat. You need to be patient, and you need to be quiet, but it is very rewarding to see the kiwi walk quietly by. Ian does everything possible to ensure that the Kiwis are not disturbed - so that future visitors will always be rewarded. This tour probably isn't something for the kids (they'll never stand still and quiet for an hour) - it is for true nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. And probably the only way you'll ever see an Okarito brown kiwi in the wild.
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South Island ▷ West Coast ▷ Okarito ▷
White Heron Sanctuary Tours
This is an excellent professionally run tour.
You get to enjoy good views of the river, a pleasant bush walk, and plenty of time to view the White Herons and Spoonbill on their nests. The view from the hide was closer than I expected, and I got some good photographs. Highly recommended.
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South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷ Banks Peninsula ▷
Pohatu Penguins
This is a true nature trip to see penguins in their natural environment.
Professionally run and knowledgeable friendly staff. Picked up promptly from Akaroa tourist information centre - I recommend this rather than driving your own car on the steep gravel roads. The bus is driven carefully so although the roads are steep you can enjoy the views without worry. Seeing the penguins does require patience. A bonus was seeing a Yellow-Eyed Penguin - the majority of the penguins are the small cute Blue variety. There is no guarantee what time or how many penguins will come past the hide, but it is worth the wait enjoying the scenery and sunset in the wilderness.
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North Island ▷ Wellington Region ▷ Kapiti Island ▷
Kapiti Island Nature Tours
I have been to Kapiti Island several times for bird watching, but on this occasion I wanted to stay overnight to go Kiwi spotting.
The lodge is simple but comfortable and reflects the relaxed lifestyle on the island. The food is very good and the guides are very knowledgeable about the area. Had success seeing Little Spotted Kiwi in the bush at night. The island is a haven for rare native birds, which can be seen at close quarter. There are nice walks on the island, and it is also very pleasant sitting on the beach in the sunshine. Highly recommended to all.