Haast River Safaris: Fully enclosed river boats with front-loading access allow for terrific visibility while local guides will inform you about the physical attributes of this remarkable glacial valley where temperate rainforest thrives. Hear stories of true Kiwi spirit that enabled a community to survive on the edge of the wilderness in this rugged landscape that is truly one of New Zealand's last frontiers. While the scenic value is terrific on a sunny day, the valley is equally awesome during rain with mist shrouding the forest, waterfalls in full flow and light reflections of the native bush backdrop.
Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge: Discover
rainforest, sea coast, fur seals and penguins as you walk or canoe with
the lodge nature guides. A daily program of guided activities,
specializing in flora, fauna and bird watching is available for lodge
guests. Naturalist guides will introduce you to the ancient trees,
birds and plants of the rainforest, accompany you in gentle canoeing on
Lake Moeraki, or to feed the tame eels and large trout in the waters
surrounding the lodge. Highlights include walks down to the beach to
view penguins (June - November) and after-dinner guided walks to see
glow worms and the stars in the Southern Sky (Southern Cross).
White Heron Tours: View the magnificent Kotuku (White Heron), the Kotuku Ngutu Papa (Royal Spoonbill), the Kawapaka (Little Black Shag) and other bird life - all in their natural environment - the only White Heron nesting site. The 3 hour tour (offered Oct - March) involves a short minibus ride to the river to connect with a gentle 20 minute jet boat ride each way. From the jetty, it is just a short boardwalk through native bush to where you can view the birds. Kotuku disperse from colony end of Feb/early March.
Okarito Kayaking: Okarito Lagoon covers more than 3240 hectares of shallow open water and is well known for its outstanding avifauna (over 70 species of birds have been recorded here). The lagoon is a common feeding ground for kotuku (white heron) and royal spoonbill, both of which breed in the nearby Waitangiroto Nature Reserve. Kayaking is by far the best way to enjoy the flora, fauna and scenic grandeur of New Zealand's largest unmodified coastal wetland. Previous experience is not necessary on this guided trip.
Okarito Boat Tours: With over 70 species of birds recorded, Okarito offers nature, bird and eco enthusiasts tremendous diversity as we travel from the wild beaches of the Tasman Sea up the Lagoon and into the surrounding rainforest. The open air guided boat trip allows a total sensory experience with 360 degree views as we cruise quietly amongst feeding birds including the graceful Kotuku or Great White heron and Royal Spoonbills. The towering Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier make for a spectacular backdrop to the coastal and rainforest environment on clear days.
