The 50 Best Birdwatching Sites in New Zealand

The 50 Best Birdwatching Sites in New Zealand by Oscar Thomas explores the diverse range of bird species in Aotearoa New Zealand, with a particular emphasis on the region's renowned seabirds. Notably, New Zealand hosts fifteen of the world's eighteen penguin species, with nine species breeding locally.

Of the world's 127 petrel species, forty breed in the New Zealand region, including some on the mainland or nearby islands for easy viewing. The Southern Ocean is home to many more. Additionally, twelve of the world's twenty-one albatross species nest in New Zealand, with seven species being exclusive to the region.

The book features comprehensive coverage of fifty premier birdwatching sites across the North and South Islands, Rakiura/Stewart Island, and Rekohu/Chatham Islands. Each site description offers details on the terrain, tracks, and trails where certain bird species are likely to be found. Key species are highlighted for each location.

Fact files for each site include information on land or sea access, habitat types, the best times to visit, and available facilities and accommodation. Checklists of key species are provided, featuring detailed summaries of particularly notable ones.

The second edition of The 50 Best Birdwatching Sites in New Zealand is fully updated by Oscar Thomas. It includes ninety new photographs and introduces three new sites, enriching the reader's birdwatching experience.