South Island Birding and Wildlife Itinerary

Kia Ora, welcome to New Zealand! After touching down in Blenheim, collect your rental car and head into the harbour town of Picton for a wildlife cruise to Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary.

Guided Cruise to Motuara Island Sanctuary 
There couldn't be a better place to meet NZ birds for the first time. On this predator-free island in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, around 70 species of rare and common NZ birds can thrive without fear of pests.

You'll have the chance to see some of our rarer birds, such as the yellow-crowned parakeet and the South Island saddleback. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the especially rare King Shag, which only exists on four islands in the Marlborough Sounds and nowhere else on earth.

After an extravaganza of beauty and birdsong, you'll return to picturesque Picton Harbour and settle in for the night.

Birdlife to watch out for: Tui, Kereru, Silvereye, King Shag, Yellow-crowned Parakeet, Bellbird, South Island Saddleback, Grey Warbler

Approximate Distance: 30 km | 19 miles  Total Driving Time: 30 minutes

Take a leisurely road trip through the Marlborough region, and our sunshine capital Nelson, to the forests and bays of Abel Tasman National Park.

You're in no hurry so feel free to pick up some world-renowned Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir along the way! There is wonderful local produce too - such as honey, cheese, and salmon - perfect for a gourmet picnic lunch.

New Zealand's smallest National Park is famous for its golden beaches, marbled cliffs, and native forests. Blessed with secluded bays, mossy valleys, and picturesque waterfalls, you are sure to fall in love with this corner of paradise.

As the sunset paints the sky in a kaleidoscope of pinks and yellows, settle back and relax. This incredible location is all yours for the next two nights.

Approximate Distance: 170 km | 106 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 

Accommodation: Kaiteriteri - 2 Nights

Enjoy a scenic full-day catamaran cruise around the hidden bays and beaches of beautiful Abel Tasman National Park.

Sail to the mysterious Split Apple Rock and visit the local wildlife at Tonga Island Marine Reserve. The cruise itinerary is loose and flexible, giving you ample time to swim and snorkel the turquoise bays or take a leisurely paddle in one of the onboard kayaks. You might even find yourself face to face with a fur seal!

If you fancy, take some shore leave to walk along the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track. Or relax on board and enjoy the serenity, while your knowledgeable skipper tells tales of the unique history and wildlife in this wonderful part of the world.

Birdlife to keep an eye out for: Fantails, Weka, Shags, Saddleback, Crowned Parakeets, Herons, and Gulls, Black Oystercatchers, Fluttering Shearwaters

Sea-life to keep an eye out for: Common Dolphin, Dusky Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin, Long Fin Pilot Whale, Orca, NZ Fur Seal

Journey to Punakaiki on the South Island's rugged and remote West Coast. Be sure to stop and marvel at the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki - these incredible rock stacks have formed over 30 million years, beaten into shape by the strong winds and waves here.

Westland Petrel Sunset Tour (Optional)
The endemic Westland Petrel is the largest mainland burrow-nesting petrel. These incredible birds can spend many years at sea without touching land before returning to the shore to breed and raise their young. From your secluded viewing shelter, you'll watch them head back to land after a hard day of fishing, crashing through the forest canopy on their way. After greeting each other with cackles and squawks, they'll wander off to their breeding burrows to check on the children.

Your knowledgeable guide will give you an insight into petrel behavior as you watch, and you'll learn about the environmental and conservation issues faced by petrels around the world.

Approximate Distance: 280 km | 174 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Punakaiki - 1 Night

The windswept West Coast of the South Island is rugged, remote and full of fascinating places to check out during your journey to Franz Josef. Keep your camera close by as you pass rainforest-covered mountains and craggy coastlines, gold-rush towns, and luscious lakes.

Nestled in a rainforest clearing, Franz Josef Glacier Village lies at the heart of the Westland National Park. The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast glaciers. It tumbles down from the Southern Alps almost to the sea, its ancient icy faces contrasting spectacularly with the surrounding rainforests.

Welcome to one of the most diverse and beautiful areas of New Zealand.

Approximate Distance:  220 km | 137 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights

Spend the day at Okarito Lagoon Bird Sanctuary, where you will kayak into a lost world of wetlands and forests in search of the elusive Kotuku (white heron).

Okarito Lagoon covers 3240 hectares of shallow open water surrounded by magnificent rainforest. Over 70 bird species have been sighted in the area, and it is home to the feeding ground of the Kotuku. With only 170 of these graceful birds in New Zealand, this is an incredible opportunity to glide along in your kayak and watch them feed without disturbing them.

Keep an eye out for the delightfully comical Royal Spoonbill striding through the shallows, swaying its shovel-like bill from side to side through the water in search of snacks!

A clear day will provide awe-inspiring views of Mt. Cook, Mt. Tasman and the Southern Alps, rounding off a perfect day in this birdwatchers paradise.

Some birds to keep an eye out for: Weka, Tui, Bellbird, Grey Warbler, Paradise Duck, Kotuku, White-faced Heron, Oystercatcher, Banded Dotterel, Eastern Bar-Tailed Godwit, Pied Stilt, Royal Spoonbill, Tomtit, Kereru, Kingfisher
 

Few places on earth can match the stunning natural setting of your home for the next two nights: Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki.

New Zealand’s premier nature lodge is surrounded by ancient rainforest on the shores of the Moeraki River, just a stone's throw from the Tasman Sea. Owned and operated by renowned conservationists Anne Saunders and Dr. Gerry McSweeney, everything here is geared towards giving nature lovers the sense of freedom that comes from being in the New Zealand Wild.

Join naturalist guides to hike wilderness beaches, explore jungle-like rainforests, kayak and search for penguins, seals, and other wildlife. Self-guided hiking, kayaking, and brown trout fishing are also available.

Tonight, why not feast on the finest west coast seafood and produce at the Lodge's outstanding restaurant.

Approximate Distance:  145 km | 90 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 45 mins

Accommodation: Lake Moeraki - 2 Nights

A stay at Wilderness Lodge is all about the activities on offer. There are canoes and kayaks, fishing rods and in-house guides that lead both walking and canoe trips up and down the river. There are many beautiful bush walks, including to the stunning Robinson Crusoe beach where you can see the rare Fiordland Crested Penguins between the months of July and December. These are the second rarest penguin in the world. After walking through the towering rainforest to the coast, you can sit quietly by the shore and spy on the Tawaki coming and going between their nests and the Tasman Sea.

You can also visit the hidden glow worm grotto after dinner in the dark!

The drive from Franz Josef to Queenstown is one of the most scenic in New Zealand, as the windswept West Coast gives way to ancient forests and mountain passes.

There's beauty around every bend as you navigate the Haast Pass, with woodland walks and dramatic waterfalls along the way - perfect for picnic stops. You'll pass through the picturesque town of Wanaka, on the shores of New Zealand's second largest lake.

Finally, the road leads you over the rugged Crown Range to Queenstown on the highest main road in the country.

Often called the "Jewel of the South", Queenstown overlooks Lake Wakatipu and the towering Southern Alps. Dining at one of the many waterfront eateries, with the mountain views laid out before you, is a perfect way to end the day.

Approximate Distance: 240 km | 149 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Queenstown - 1 Night

Swapping the bright lights of Queenstown for lakeside tranquility, today you will journey Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Te Anau is another area of breathtaking natural beauty, and several key Lord of The Rings movie scenes were filmed amid the unspoiled forests and lakes of this region.

Immerse yourselves in the gorgeous surroundings: flight-seeing, fly fishing, kayaking, sailing and horse riding are all on offer and are great ways to get up close to nature. Some of the best-loved New Zealand Great Walks begin nearby, such as the Milford, Routeburn, and Kepler Tracks.

Soak up the serenity of these gorgeous surroundings, and if you're wondering where the fiords are, you will love what tomorrow has in store!

Approximate Distance: 175 km | 109 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Accommodation: Te Anau - 2 Nights

No visit to New Zealand is complete without a pilgrimage to the "Eighth Natural Wonder of the World": Milford Sound.

The Milford Road takes you from Te Anau to Milford Sound on one of the most scenic drives on the planet. A glorious labyrinth of soaring peaks is punctuated by unspoiled rainforest, plunging valleys, azure lakes, waterfalls, and glaciers.

The Kea: As you arrive at Eastern Side of the Homer Tunnel on state Highway 94, there is an area where you can pull over and take photos, and it is here where you are often met by one of New Zealand's native parrots, the cheeky Kea. These super-intelligent and mischievous birds are a delight to see in the wild. Be careful: The Kea delights in eating rubber trim on rental cars!

Arriving in Milford, you will board your purpose-built cruise vessel and sail the length of the Sound, dwarfed by towering cliffs and waterfalls all around you. The onboard nature guide will tell you all about the seals, penguins, and dolphins who frequently visit this mesmerising location.

Wildlife to watch out for: Bottlenose, Dusky and Hector's Dolphins, Whio (blue duck), NZ Fur Seal, Little Blue Penguin, Fiordland Crested Penguin, Kea, Oystercatcher, Sooty Shearwater

Today head down to the town of Bluff to catch a scenic ferry to the southernmost part of New Zealand: Stewart Island.

It seems almost a cliché to call Stewart Island one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets. Only 1% of the island is inhabited - the rest belongs to natural native bush, exquisite white-sand beaches, bird sanctuaries, and rugged mountains.

The forest is a haven for bird-life, as there are fewer predators than on the mainland. Kaka, parakeets, tui, and bellbird give a wonderful dawn chorus. New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi can be found all around the Island.

After only a few hours in this remote paradise the rest of the world melts away, and you'll quickly find yourself adopting the laid-back demeanor of the locals.

Approximate Distance: 180 km | 112 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation: Stewart Island - 2 Nights

The idyllic, predator-free Ulva Island bird sanctuary is just a short water-taxi ride from Stewart Island, and you'll discover its taonga (treasures) on a guided walk today.

Free from the risk of predators, many of Ulva's birds are fearless, and will happily approach human visitors to get a good look. Make sure you charge your camera batteries, you're going to want to remember this forever!

Strolling under a luxuriant green canopy of podocarp forest, you'll enter a world of exquisite seasonal orchids, mosses, liverworts, and beautiful filmy ferns. Your local guide will introduce you to the practical and medicinal uses of Ulva's trees and plants from a local and Maori perspective.

Birds to watch out for... 

Landbirds: South Island Saddleback, Yellowhead, Stewart Island Robin, South Island Rifleman, Red-crowned Parakeet, Yellow-crowned Parakeet, Stewart Island Weka, South Island Kaka, Wood Pigeon, Brown Creeper, Tui, Bellbird, South Island Tomtit, Fantail, Grey Warbler, Morepork, Kingfisher.

Shorebirds: Stewart Island Shag, Spotted Shag, Pied Shag, Little Shag, Black-backed Gull, Red-billed Gull, Variable Oystercatcher.

Seabirds: White-capped Mollymawks, Little Blue Penguins
 

Returning to the mainland today, you will visit Dunedin, a grand old university town on the East Coast.

The name "Dunedin" comes from the Scots-Gaelic name for Edinburgh: "Dun Eideann" and you won't have to look hard to see the Scottish influence in this lovely old university town.

A popular attraction here is Larnach Castle, built in 1871. It took 200 workers three years to build, and twelve years to decorate. Housing a unique New Zealand antique collection and beautiful gardens, it's a relaxing place to meander.

Tonight enjoy Dunedin's lively bar, restaurant, and nightlife scene and look forward to meeting the local's wildlife tomorrow.

Approximate Distance: 230 km | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 Nights

This morning you'll hop on board a fascinating Wildlife Cruise around Taiaroa Head and its dramatic cliffs. Later, you'll encounter another rare New Zealand native: the shy Hoiho (Yellow Eyed Penguin)

Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise
The Otago Peninsula was described by the internationally-acclaimed environmentalist Dr David Bellamy as “the finest example of eco-tourism in the world." As you cruise around Taiaroa Head, watch for New Zealand Fur Seals playing near their breeding colonies. Out at sea you may also come across albatross and petrels as well as penguins, dolphins and other marine mammals.

Yellow-eyed Penguin Tour 
The yellow-eyed penguin's Maori name, Hoiho, means "Noisy Shouter". While it's true that their voices are rather shrill, these rare penguins are famously shy. Once you arrive at their reserve, your guide will lead you through a unique system of covered trenches and into viewing hides. These hides allow access to living areas and breeding grounds of this timid penguin, providing the opportunity to witness and photograph undisturbed activity at a close range.

The Otago Peninsula was described by the internationally-acclaimed environmentalist Dr .David Bellamy as “the finest example of eco-tourism in the world."

Today your journey continues up the east coast of the South Island to historic Oamaru.

Be sure to stop en route at Koekohe Beach to admire the Moeraki Boulders. There are over 50 of these 65-million-year-old natural wonders strewn along the sands. They are up to 2 metres wide and the largest weight around 7 tonnes!

The North Otago town of Oamaru greatly prospered from gold mining in the 1800s and boasts some of the finest heritage buildings in New Zealand. The splendid nineteenth-century whitestone buildings - formerly prestigious banks and hotels - are now home to galleries and specialty stores. The town has a character all of its own, and some highly revered residents who you will glimpse tomorrow.

Head to the Oamaru Harbour at sunset for a special treat. As darkness falls, a local colony of Little Blue Penguins waddle up the steep bank, before heading towards their comfy nests. Locals and visitors alike gather to watch the penguin parade, it's a sight not to be missed.

Approximate Distance: 115 km | 71 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Accommodation: Oamaru - 1 Night

Your final destination, Christchurch, is New Zealand’s second-largest city and the South Island's capital.

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is our "Garden City", blessed with beautiful parks and gardens right in the heart of town. English heritage buildings sit side by side with innovative post-earthquake regeneration in this vibrant place.

After settling in, why not relax with punting trip down the Avon River? Gliding gently along in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch's 'must-see' historic attractions and botanic gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the streets.

Make the most of your last night in New Zealand by exploring Christchurch's foodie scene. With everything from relaxed cafes to fine dining on offer, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to mull over your memories of the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Approximate Distance: 250 km | 155 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

We know you will enjoy our 'South Island Birding and Wildlife' Itinerary and our promise to you is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with a memory card full of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Today, return your rental car, have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon in Aotearoa, New Zealand.