Birdwatching in New Zealand 2025

New Zealand is recognized as an international birdwatching hotspot. It is home to 80 unique endemic species, including five species of legendary kiwis, multicolored alpine and forest parrots, curious wrybill plover, rare black stilt and many other precious forest species. 15,000 kilometres of coastline are inhabited by 85 seabird species, and hence comes its fame of the seabird capital. The seaside is home to 14 albatross species and 9 penguin species. To view all or, at least, most of the terrestrial and pelagic birds one has to travel both across and along the coastline of the North Island, The South Island as well as Stewart Islands, and see different habitats from​ vibrant wetlands to severe mountain peaks. Although birdwatching is rewarding at any time of the year, the best time to observe birds in their natural environment would be their breeding season which usually occurs in spring, as then you will be able to see both adult birds and their cute youngs.

Muriwai Heads, Waipu Cove, Rangihoua Heritage Park, Tawharanui Regional Park, Tiritiri Matangi Island, and many more locations make amazing spots for bird admirers.