Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bird-Watching
A diverse and fascinating array of birds may be seen in the wild, with many resident (or reg-
ularly returning) populations well protected and indeed promoted by high-profile visitor at-
tractions. Examples include the Royal Albatross Centre on the Otago Peninsula; the godwits
of Farewell Spit in Golden Bay; and the kotuku (white heron) sanctuary at Whataroa on the
West Coast.
NZ does a great line in island sanctuaries, and increasingly 'mainland islands' - reserves
encircled by predator-proof fences. Such enclaves include Tiritiri Matangi island near Auck-
land, Ulva Island near Stewart Island, Kapiti Island near Wellington, and Motuara Island in
the Marlborough Sounds. Visitor-friendly 'mainland islands' include Maungatautari near
Hamilton, and Zealandia in Wellington.
Another opportunity to gain insight into NZ bird species and their conservation is at nu-
merous captive breeding facilities, including the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef
Glacier, where rowi - the rarest of all kiwi species - are hatched. Another such kiwi hatch-
ery is Rainbow Springs, in Rotorua.
For a selection of some of the wonderful birds you may encounter on the tracks and else-
where, refer to our bird-spotting guide (
Click here
)
.
Fishing
Introduced in the 19th century, brown and rainbow trout have thrived in NZ's lakes and wa-
terways and attract keen anglers from around the world. Many walking tracks follow rivers
or skirt lakes, giving trampers ample opportunity to catch supper. Lake Waikaremoana, the
Leslie-Karamea and Caples Greenstone are memorable places to try your luck. Licences
(daily adult/youth $23/7, whole season adult/youth $100/24) are essential and can be bought
at outdoor/fishing shops, visitor centres or online at Fish and Game New Zealand
(
www.fishandgame.org.nz
)
, where you'll also find information on when, where and how to
fish.
Sea-fishing options are bountiful too, whether casting off the beach or rocks, or reeling
fish in from a kayak or chartered boat. Delicious snapper, cod, tarakihi and groper are all on
the menu, but know your limits and release all undersize fish. Fishing rules and guidelines
are available from
www.fish.govt.nz,
while
www.fishing.net.nz
can hook you up with
charters and guides, as will i-SITE visitor centres nationwide.
