Davies Track is a great, short walk in the Taranaki area of the North Island. This walk takes you to the high point of the Kaitake Range in Egmont National Park. Since I live in Oakura I’m always looking for nice, short walks that I…
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These common epiphytes of New Zealand can be found on trees, boulders, or cliffs. Here are some basic facts about 5 epiphytes to help you identify them. New Zealand’s native forests, both the podocarp/broadleaf forests and the beech forests, are full of life. The trees…
New Zealand’s 3 native gulls can be found all across the country in differing frequencies. These are the only native gulls that breed in New Zealand. I am fortunate enough to live close to the beautiful beaches of Taranaki on the North Island. Any time…
New Zealand is home to a few prickly plants that you need to be careful of when you are out in nature. Here are 3 plants that can cause some serious pain. For the most part I feel like I’m in a safe, fun place…
The Native ‘K’ birds of New Zealand are pretty amazing. Here are 6 native birds of New Zealand that start with the letter K, including kiwi and kokako. New Zealand has and had some pretty unique and amazing birds. Since these islands were isolated for…
It’s that time of year when the Great Kereru count is happening. This is a chance for citizen scientists to participate by recording their observations of Kereru. I remember about this time last year when I first heard of the Great Kereru count. I thought…
The Southern Black Backed Gull is a native New Zealand bird. Here are some facts about this gull, including what dubious dishonor it holds. New Zealand is a land of birds, insects, and amazing landscapes. I love wandering along pristine beaches, amidst ancient forests, or…
The Grey Warbler or Riroriro is an endemic New Zealand bird. Here are some fun facts about this tiny, common bird and tips on identifying it. The iconic wildlife of New Zealand includes the Kiwi, Tui, Kea, and Kereru among others. Those birds are truly…
The translator tower loop is a great walk on Mt. Taranaki. This half day walk is a fun way to explore the mountain, with forest, alpine tussock, and great views. Mount Taranaki towers over everything when you are in the Taranaki region of the north…
New Zealand’s endemic Rimu tree is a common, towering tree of the podocarp/broadleaf forest. Here are 7 facts about this magnificent native tree. The islands of New Zealand are truly a nature lovers paradise. You can go walking around the mountains, coast, and forest without…