Tailormade New Zealand

Meaning ‘looking to the wind’, this 22-hectare Scientific Reserve lies just north-east of Auckland, at the entrance to the Hauraki Gulf. Concerted habitat restoration in the 1980s, as well as the eradication of Pacific Rats and Possums, have led to the island sanctuary becoming world renowned for its successful conservation of native wildlife. Well-maintained walking trails and guided tours make this wonderful island easy to access for all. Amongst eye-catching crimson-flowered Pohutukawa and glossy-leaved Kohekohe trees, listen out for Korimako (Bellbird), North Island Kokako, Tieke (Saddleback), Riroriro (Grey Warbler) and the melodic calls of Tui. Smaller songbirds such as Rifleman and North Island Robin will reward the keen-eyed; likewise, in wetland areas, the secretive Puweto (Spotless Crake) may be seen. Endemic reptiles, including Moko Skink and Duvaucel’s Gecko, are now found across the island.

Lying 5 kilometres off the North Island’s west coast near Wellington, Kapiti Island Nature Reserve may only be 10 kilometres long, but it is a precious refuge for New Zealand endemics including the endangered Little-spotted Kiwi (now extinct on the mainland), as well as the native owl, or Morepork (Ruru), Kakariki and Saddleback. The rare Stitchbird (Hihi) is a key target for birders visiting Kapiti and there are walking trails with feeders offering chances to see them up close. Blue Penguins nest here, and Kapiti is a stronghold for the endangered Takahe and North Island Kaka. Visits to the island must be authorised and numbers are limited, but there are opportunities for nocturnal tours and exclusive overnight stays.

Nestled between the North and South Island, Marlborough Sounds captivates with its breathtaking natural beauty. A symphony of rugged coastlines, emerald hills, and serene azure waters, Marlborough Sounds is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and seekers of tranquillity. Lush forests stretch to the water's edge, while secluded bays and coves invite exploration by kayak or sailboat. The Queen Charlotte Track meanders along the coastline, offering exhilarating hikes and sweeping vistas. Rich marine and birdlife thrive in this coastal haven. Pods of playful dolphins dance through the cerulean waters, while inquisitive seals bask on rocky outcrops. Weka, Fernbird, Sacred Kingfisher and Tui are just a few of the numerous birds to be seen here.

If there is one name that comes up with any mention of whale-watching in New Zealand, it will surely be Kaikoura. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Seaward Kaikoura Range, the 2-kilometre-deep Kaikoura Canyon close to shore creates an incredibly rich feeding hotspot for marine wildlife. Whilst the warmer months bring Blue Whales and Orca, the cooler months are a good time to spot Humpbacks and Pilot Whales, and Sperm Whales can be seen year-round. Acrobatic Dusky Dolphins are frequently seen from Kaikoura. A huge diversity of birdlife also depends on the waters here, and there are various opportunities for guided boat trips to see numerous species of albatross, shearwater, petrel, penguin, tern and prion, to name a few.

Amidst the dramatic alpine landscape of the Mackenzie Basin, the glassy waters of Lake Ohau mirror the towering peaks of the Ben Ohau Range, creating a picturesque vista. Among the diverse fauna here, the endemic New Zealand Falcon and Black Stilt are notable highlights, as are native waterfowl such as Paradise Shelduck, New Zealand Scaup and the rare Brown Teal. The New Zealand Rock Wren, an endearing South Island endemic, may also be spotted here. Lake Ohau falls within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, recognised for its clear and unpolluted night skies, making this a fantastic spot for stargazing.