The moa was a giant species of bird that were known to have grown 3.6m in height and weighing around 230kg. They shortly became extinct after the humans starting migrating to New Zealand because they were an easy kill and a large meal… Many museums across the county have moa bones and skeletons on display […]
The South Island of New Zealand is home to a carnivorous snail! The powelliphanta is the largest carnivorous snail in the world. They can grow as large as a man’s fist and suck up worms like spaghetti. You can find them in the South Island in Haast and Fiordland National Park. Hidden away in New […]
The kea is a cunning native parrot that is famous for ripping rubber seals in cars apart, as well as windscreen wipers. They are the world’s only alpine parrot, so you are likely to see these intelligent birds in mountainous environments in the South Island of New Zealand. They are commonly seen on the road […]
The giant weta is the heaviest insect in the world. It has been recorded to be heavier than a sparrow. There are 70 types of weta in New Zealand and can be found in caves and forests. The best time to see them is when walking in the forest at night. The largest species of […]
That’s right, New Zealand isn’t just all about the sheep… Learning about how wildlife evolves on an isolated set of islands in the South Pacific is just an added bonus to living in New Zealand. Museums, wildlife sanctuaries and conservation centres can educate you on New Zealand’s fascinating wildlife mostly made up of birds, reptiles, […]
This all-seasons trail explores the forested shores of Lake Taupō in the North Island of New Zealand, with inspiring views across to the peaks of . Skirting the shore of New Zealand’s largest lake, the Great Lake Trail features lush forest and wetlands, waterfalls, beaches and panoramic views from a series of lookouts. It is […]
Stretching from the Bay of Islands in the East to Hokianga Harbour in the West, this journey is rich in history and local hospitality. Coastal views, wetlands, native forest and rolling farmland can all be enjoyed on this coast-to-coast ride between the popular Bay of Islands and peaceful Hokianga Harbour. Following smooth rail trail, dedicated […]
Beginning on the slopes of a live volcano, this ride reveals varied natural and human history on its winding, often remote path to the sea. Starting on the volcanic slopes of Mt Ruapehu, towering above the desert in the middle of New Zealand’s north island, this is an epic journey through two national parks, rolling […]
Located in the heart of the North Island, Pureora Forest Park is a mix of virgin, regenerating and exotic forest hosting such unexpected scenes as ancient trees crowding out a timber-miller’s tractor abandoned in the bush. Traversing this deep wilderness is an 87-kilometre trail (part of NZ Cycle Trail) revealing not only awe-inspiring beauty but […]
Although I have not been lucky enough to experience the great rides of the North Island of New Zealand they certainly do look just as impressive and beautiful as the South Island ones. HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL Located just over an hour south of Auckland is the small town of Thames on the way to the […]
