New Zealand’s 3 parrot species include the kaka, kea, and kakapo. Here are some facts about these 3 endemic bird species and a hysterical video. The islands of New Zealand are home to a wonderful variety of truly unique plants and animals. A couple of…
The powelliphanta are giant land snails found only in New Zealand. Here are 7 facts about these unique threatened species. New Zealand is one of those places where you never know what you are going to find when you take a walk in the bush.…
These endemic New Zealand birds are truly special and deserve some attention during whio awareness month. Here are 5 places to see whio in their natural setting. New Zealand has so many special birds – from the iconic kiwi to kea and tiny rifleman. I…
The endemic rifleman is New Zealand’s smallest native bird. Read 7 facts about this bird that weighs about 1/3 of a house mouse. The more time I spend wandering in the bush the more that I become familiar with it. I’ve learned to identify the…
Heketara is an endemic tree daisy in New Zealand. Here are 6 facts about this tree that has lovely clusters of white flowers in the spring. The native forests of New Zealand are lush, full of vegetation from the emergent Rata and Rimu trees to…
Lancewood is a unique native New Zealand tree that can be easily identified. Here are 7 facts about this common tree, including its two growth stages. I feel like I’ve been a bit remiss in not talking about Lancewood before. Lancewood is one of the…
The native totara tree grows to a huge size and is common across New Zealand. Learn 6 facts about this tree, including why Maori revere it. As a pakeha and non-native to New Zealand it has taken me time to learn and appreciate many of…
New Zealand Sea Lions can be found along the coasts of the southern part of the South Island. Here are 10 facts about these native marine mammals. Prior to the arrival of people to these amazing islands, there were many types of large animals such…
New Zealand’s native frogs are a small group of rare animals that few people ever see. Here are 5 facts about these unique amphibians. In the five years I’ve spent wandering around New Zealand I’ve only seen a frog once. My only frog sighting was…
The endemic tomtit is one of the common forest birds found throughout New Zealand. Here are 8 facts about the tomtit, including identification tips and the 5 subspecies. I’m thrilled any time that I’m out on a walk in the bush and happen to see…