 f
you have 'done' Africa and want a holiday with a difference, come
to New Zealand and see our 'big five'. Although, apart from the Kauri,
they are not big in stature they are of great significance to those
with an interest in nature.
 The
Kauri is one of the world's most magnificent trees. It's
huge bulk is further emphasized by its habit of preventing competing
trees from growing near it. Independent viewing is available in
many parts of the Northland area of the North Island but the best
is in the Waipoua Forest and in Trounson Park.
Kiwi. We have six varieties, or species,of this
wonderful bird in New Zealand. Two, the Haast Tokoeka and the Okarito
Brown Kiwi are in imminent danger of extinction, each numbering
less than 200 individuals. The Southern Tokoeka is the Kiwi that
is the most likely to be seen in the wild. Operators offer guided
excursions to see Kiwi on Stewart Island.
 We
have two species of Tuatara in New Zealand - Gunther's
Tuatara and the Common Tuatara. Both of these extremely ancient
relatives of the dinosaurs are, because of predators, confined to
off-shore islands closed to public access. However, it is easy to
see Tuatara in many of the collections throughout New Zealand. Invercargill's
'Tuatarium' at the Southland Museum has both species and is highly
recommended.
 Takahe.
This beautiful flightless rail is easily seen on a day-trip to Tiritiri
Matangi Island near Auckland. Contact 09 367 9111 for timetables.
These birds are not what one would call shy. In fact given half
a chance, they will nick your lunch.
 Kokako.
This magnificent songster is also to be found on Tiritiri Matangi.
For the reasonably fit (i.e. not in a wheelchair or on a zimmer
frame) there are several mainland colonies. Unfortunately, the best
time to hear these birds is at first light. That's why it's called
a dawn chorus.. Still, failing all else, captive birds can be seen
at the 'Otorohanga Kiwi House'
and at the 'National Wildlife
Centre' at Mount Bruce near Masterton.
There is much more to be experienced in New Zealand. We have the
world's rarest penguin and waders, the beautiful New Zealand dolphin,
magnificent pelagic bird viewing. Add to this magnificent scenery,
great facilities and the added bonus that every one speaks English
and you will see why we can offer the holiday of a lifetime.
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