Marvel at the melodies of native New Zealand birds, like the tūi and bellbird.

New Zealand is home to many species not found anywhere else in the world, including a flightless parrot, a penguin with yellow eyes, and the only bird with nostrils at the end of its beak. Among bird enthusiasts, New Zealand is celebrated as the seabird capital of the world. To learn more about New Zealand’s birds, try the Department of Conservation’s bird identification course.(opens in new window)

Where and when to go

Southland
Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track, Southland

Where

To see most, if not all New Zealand’s endemic species, you'll need to travel through much of the three main islands. See Birding New Zealand for a full list of operators(opens in new window) that offer birdwatching tours, excursions, and accommodation.

When

Birdwatching in New Zealand is an all-year-round activity, but the seasons provide unique opportunities to observe different species and behaviour:

  • Spring (September to November) is when many birds are more visible as they nest and raise their young, or return from their Arctic breeding grounds.
  • Summer (December to February) is when birds are highly active, feeding and caring for their fledglings. It is also a great time to see seabirds, including albatross.
  • Autumn (March to May) is when some migratory birds start their journey back to the Northern Hemisphere and native forest birds like the tūī and bellbird are more vocal.
  • Winter (June to August) is when you can easily spot alpine birds such as kea, which live in mountain regions of the South Island.

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