About NZ Birding

NZ Birding is an independent guide to watching birds in Aotearoa New Zealand. We write about where and when to see endemic birds, seabirds and shorebirds, how island sanctuaries work, and how a backyard can help birds through planting and predator control.

What we are, and what we are not

We are a small editorial project written by the NZ Birding editors. We are not a tour operator. We don't run, sell or book trips, take payment, or accept bookings, and we have no connection with any business that used this web address in the past (see the Archive).

How we write

• Species-led and practical. Season, habitat, call, where to stand and what to bring.
• Te reo first. We use te reo Māori bird names with the English name in brackets the first time a bird appears, for example pīwakawaka (fantail).
• Sources you can check. Each field note links to authorities such as the Department of Conservation, NZ Birds Online and Birds New Zealand. Rules on access, permits and biosecurity change, so always check the official source before you travel.
• Birds first. We don't publish exact nest locations of threatened species, and we follow the DOC care code.

Pictures

We use our own simple drawings and diagrams. If we ever use a photograph, it will be public domain or Creative Commons licensed, with the photographer and licence credited beside it.

Corrections

If something here is out of date or wrong, see Contact.