Terry Kirkhope
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South Island ▷ Stewart Island ▷ Halfmoon Bay ▷
Ruggedy Range Wilderness Experience
Ulva Island half-day trip with Furhana was great.
She is so knowledgeable and informative, and we would have got far less out of the trip with a less able guide or on our own. If we manage to return to Stewart Island, we'll be hoping to take a longer trip with Ruggedy Range.
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South Island ▷ West Coast ▷ Okarito ▷
White Heron Sanctuary Tours
This was a great experience, and it followed the advertised description very closely.
A minibus ride, with information and a commentary about the natural history of the area and the birds, was followed by a very enjoyable jet boat ride to the nesting area. After a short walk on a very well maintained boardwalk, we arrived at the viewing hide. It is just across the river from the main nesting site of the White Herons, together with Spoonbills and Shags. In late November, we saw White Heron nests with eggs and with chicks from newly hatched to fully fledged. The trees so full of beautiful birds is a truly magnificent sight. The return journey is the reverse and, on the jet boat ride, we were "escorted" by Shelducks flying in formation with the boat. Taking care only to pick a good time of the year, I would most highly recommend this experience.
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South Island ▷ West Coast ▷ Okarito ▷
Okarito Kiwi Tours
This was a great experience in a small group of 8.
After being issued with torches, head-nets and extra clothes for those who needed them, we were thoroughly briefed and firmly marshalled by Mike; Ian was having a rare night off Despite twice being thwarted by unfortunately timed passing vehicles which caused the kiwis to stop their progress, Mike got us all in position to see 2 kiwis. The first one was a bit over 10 metres away, but the other was considerably closer. Despite the attentions of the advertised mosquitoes, this was a most enjoyable evening and an experience I would highly recommend