Bird Watching

Whether you’re an ardent ‘twitcher’ in search of rare species, or simply want to hear some melodious birdsong, New Zealand’s fascinating bird population offers hours of entertainment.

More than 80 types of seabird breed along our shores. Some migrate annually from the other side of the world and others are only found within New Zealand waters.

Our native forests ring with birdsong and rare native species are thriving at open sanctuaries such as Tiritiri Matangi Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, Kapiti Island close to Wellington and Motuara Island in the Marlborough Sounds.

Feature Presentation NEW ZEALAND BIRDING Get off the beaten track and discover a myriad of bird life at the many bird sanctuaries and wildlife parks on offer. Photo credit: Tourism New Zealand Read more ›

You can also see most of New Zealand native bird species in bird parks, reserves and zoos throughout the country.