The native pukatea tree can grow some humongous buttress roots. Read about why puakatea trees have these unique plank buttress roots here. New Zealand is full of unique trees that grow nowhere else in the world. Some, such as the Pohutukawa, produce beautiful red flowers,…
Spring is in the air and for many birds that means it’s time to start breeding. Here are some facts about tomtit breeding – the how, what, when, and where. In New Zealand spring starts on 1 September. Since that time I’ve been seeing a…
The native kamahi tree is one of the trees that comprise the goblin forests in New Zealand. Read all about this common native forest tree here. One of the very first hikes I did upon arrival in New Zealand was a short walk on Mt.…
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…
Can you tell if you are looking at a fur seal or a sea lion? Here are 3 simple tips to help you tell apart these two native New Zealand marine mammals. New Zealand may not have many native land mammals (in fact only 2…
New Zealand only has seven native or introduced frog species. Here are 5 tips to help you know if you are looking at a native or introduced frog. New Zealand is a country full of absolutely breathtaking landscapes, beautiful trees, and native animals. I’ve spent…
New Zealand’s native tawa tree is common throughout lowland forests in the country. Here are 7 facts about this abundant native tree. I will be honest with you here, it took me a long time to learn about and be able to identify tawa trees.…
New Zealand is home to 7 frog species, 4 of which are native and 3 introduced. Learn about these amphibians here. Most people come to New Zealand to experience the amazing natural landscapes that the country has to offer. They may also try to see…
The kowhai is an endemic tree to New Zealand that produces beautiful yellow flowers in the spring. Read 6 facts about this tree here. I love going for a walk in the spring and seeing some beautiful kowhai trees covered in yellow flowers. The tree…
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…