New Zealand was the last large landmass to be settled by people about 750 years ago! Since that time people have radically changed the natural world of these islands. I feel so lucky to be living in New Zealand. This country is absolutely beautiful with…
Flax is an endemic plant of New Zealand that is common throughout the country. Here are 7 facts about this plant that is important for people and animals. Flax is one of those features of the New Zealand landscape that is ubiquitous. You can see…
Puawhananga or bush clematis is a beautiful splash of white flowers in the green forests of New Zealand in the spring. Here are some cool facts about this common spring flower. I spent many years living in the Rocky Mountains of the USA where spring…
The mountainous terrain of New Zealand is home to over 3,000 glaciers. Here are 6 well known glaciers that you should visit today! All but 18 of the glaciers are located on the South Island (although only 6 of those 18 are larger than 1…
The Wheki tree fern is one of the most common and abundant tree ferns in New Zealand. Here are 2 tips to help identify this endemic New Zealand plant. I love going for a walk in the native forests of New Zealand. As a friend…
The Hooker Valley track is the best short walk in Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park on the South Island of New Zealand. Here is all about this memorable walk. This is the first walk that I did when we visited Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park. It blew…
New Zealand’s geckos comprise a unique and special group of animals. Here are 8 cool facts about these cute, elusive, and seldom seen animals. Before moving to New Zealand I didn’t know much about the natural world here. I had heard stories of beautiful landscapes,…
The country of New Zealand has both glaciers and sub-tropical beaches. Unfortunately, like other parts of the world, our glaciers are shrinking. New Zealand is such an amazing country. It’s full of breathtaking beaches that are perfect for swimming and surfing. But, there are also…
Introduced species can be a serious problem anywhere, but especially on islands. Here is a definition of introduced species, and why they can be problematic. I have lived in various parts of the USA, Madagascar, and now New Zealand. It seems like everywhere I’ve lived…
Supplejack is a vine that grows throughout the lowland, coastal forest of New Zealand. Here are 9 twisty facts about this common native plant. A friend of mine once told me something that I think nicely sums up this native vine. Supplejack is everywhere when…