The Fiordland and Southland area offer the opportunity to observe a wide range of both common and rare birds. 

Wetland areas 

Wetland areas are common throughout the Southland plains and mainly found on private land. 

Access is generally by four wheel drive vehicle though some areas are adjacent to the highways. Some wetlands are found in more remote areas requiring a short hike for access. 

Birds that may be found in wetland areas: black shag, little shag, white faced heron, bitten, black swan, Canada goose, mallard duck, paradise shellduck, grey duck, New Zealand scaup, grey teal, New Zealand shoveler, banded rail, pukeko, Australian coot, pied stilt, southern black back gull, kingfisher, welcome swallow, fernbird, Crested Grebe. 

Forest 

Native forest areas hold a mix of both common and rare species. Kiwi may also be found in some of these areas though over night camping is required. 

Birds that may be found in the forest: New Zealand falcon, weka, New Zealand pigeon, kaka, red crowned parakeet, yellow crowned parakeet, shining cuckoo, long tailed cuckoo, morepork, rifleman, brown creeper, yellow head, grey warbler, fantail, tomtit, South Island robin, silvereye, bellbird, tui. 

River beds, open country & alpine areas: 

Fewer species of bird life are found in these habitats: kea, rock wren, New Zealand pipit, skylark, little owl, banded dotterel, spur-winged plover, Australasian harrier, blue duck. 

• Larger groups by arrangement.
• We supply vehicle transport, morning and afternoon tea including tea or coffee, lunches by arrangement.

For further information contact :