Exploring the Tawharanui Bird Sanctuary, home to the New Zealand Kiwi! This thriving sanctuary is located on a remote peninsula in the Hauraki Gulf and is the perfect habitat for Kiwi and other native NZ birds such as the Kereru, Tui, Native Owl, Morpork and more!*

Duration

Tour Duration: 3 Hours
Start and finish times vary depending on the season. (See live booking form for exact times)

Pick up/Drop off: Matakana I-Site. Just outside the Cinema Complex in Matakana Village.

About

Pick up/Drop off: Matakana I-Site. Just outside the Cinema Complex in Matakana Village. (1hr North of Auckland). This is a small group tour into an amazing bird sanctuary that just so happens to have one of Auckland’s favourite surf beach’s, campgrounds and walking trails! Join your local guide Ness as she shows you her ‘back yard’. This evening tour is a chance to hear and maybe even see the elusive nocturnal bird of New Zealand…. The Northern Brown Kiwi, not to mention our native owl the Morepork!

The trails are well maintained, and relatively flat with just a few undulations. Total distance walked will vary, but averages about 2.5 km for the tour.

What we provide
Hot chocolate & home made cookies while learning about the area and awaiting dark for our nocturnal friends!

With native forest, lush pastures and wetlands, gorgeous coastal views and sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why the Kiwi call Tawharanui home.Beginning at dusk, you’ll set off with your local guide in search of Kiwi by red torchlight. Keep an ear out for the shrill call of the Kiwi, it is very distinctive and almost mesmerizing. You will learn how to identify the difference between the male and female calls as well as other fascinating facts about these wonderful birds throughout the tour.
If you are lucky you may even get the chance to see these treasured nocturnal birds!

The small group numbers of the tour ensure you get the most out of your experience, making for a memorable and informative evening exploring the sanctuary and habitat of the New Zealand Kiwi!

What to Bring

Your lovely selves and a quiet night time voice as to not scare these beautiful birds away.

Shoes (trainers) or if have none, then enclosed sandals are fine.

Rain Jacket and a warm layer (just in case).