New Zealand. Ulva Island is one of the best birdwatching destinations in New Zealand. Located in Rakiura National Park off the coast of Stewart Island, the predator-free island is a safe haven for many of the country's endangered native bird species. With high hopes and my camera in my backpack, I set off for this pristine birding paradise, hoping to see species that are difficult to find on the New Zealand mainland.

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Why is Ulva Island a special Habitat for Birds?

Ulva Island offers one of the few remaining places in New Zealand where native bird species can live without the threat of introduced predators such as rats or weasels. Unlike many other places, there are no feral cats or loose dogs here. The island is covered with dense, ancient forests characterized by tree ferns, rimu, and totara trees. There is also a wide variety of insects, fruits, and seeds, which provide a rich source of food for the birdlife. Thanks to intensive conservation work and the eradication of invasive species, many of New Zealand's endangered bird species have found a safe habitat here, which attracts numerous amateur ornithologists and bird photographers every year. Ulva Island is one of the best birdwatching destinations in New Zealand. Located in Rakiura National Park off the coast of Stewart Island, the predator-free island is a safe haven for many of the country's endangered native bird species. With high hopes and my camera in my backpack, I set off for this pristine birding paradise, hoping to see species that are difficult to find on the New Zealand mainland.

History of Ulva Island

The Māori knew Ulva Island long before European settlement. In their language, the island is called Te Wharawhara, named after a local fern species (Pneumatopteris pennigera) that grows there in large numbers. For the Ngāi Tahu, Ulva Island was an important place for fishing, hunting, and gathering. The surrounding waters are rich in seafood, and the dense forests provide valuable resources such as wood, medicinal plants, and bird feathers. In addition, the island was considered a place of spiritual peace and contemplation - a place closely connected to the natural world and the mauri (spirit of life).

With the arrival of Europeans in the 19th century, the use of the island changed. It served as a post station for a time, and a small settlement was established. At the same time, the European settlers began to introduce invasive species such as rats, which severely disrupted the island's delicate ecological balance. Many native bird species, which had no natural enemies, were threatened as a result.

In the 1990s, a comprehensive initiative was launched to restore Ulva Island's original flora and fauna. The New Zealand government declared it part of the Rakiura National Park and successfully removed invasive species.

The Stars of the Island

Thanks to the successful conservation measures, visitors can discover a variety of unique bird species while birdwatching on Ulva Island, including:

Stewart Island Robin(Petroica australismaori: Toutouwai)

After just a few minutes, the first little Robin appeared. He boldly hopped around right in front of my feet, as if he wanted to examine me curiously. These trusting birds are a real highlight and hard to miss despite their inconspicuous gray-black coloring. These curious little birds often hop close to the paths and watch visitors almost as closely as the other way around.

Saddleback (Philesturnus carunculatus, Tieke)

A faint rustling sound drew my gaze downwards, where I spotted a saddleback foraging. Its black plumage with the saddle patch and the bright orange cheek patch made it easy to recognize. Its distinctive, loud call is a typical sound on Ulva Island. Two days later, when I was birdwatching on Ulva Island again, I saw the saddle-billed bird foraging in exactly the same place.

Kaka (Nestor meridionalis)

A pair of Kaka parrots was moving about in the treetops. The parrots seemed to be playfully teasing each other while screeching loudly.

Alongside the kea, the kaka is the second species of nestor parrot still alive in New Zealand. The animals are curious and intelligent. They are known for their ability to imitate sounds.

Yellowhead (Mohoua ochrocephala, Mohua)

The mohua is a rare New Zealand songbird which, with its bright yellow head and lively voice, is one of the most impressive representatives of the native bird world. It belongs to the Mohouidae family and is endemic to the South Island of New Zealand, where it prefers to live in old, semi-natural beech forests. Mohuas are sociable birds that often travel in small groups and search together for insects, larvae, and spiders, which they skillfully find in bark crevices and under mosses.

Red-fronted Parakeet (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiaeKakariki)

The Red-fronted Parakeet, also known as the New Zealand Parakeet, is a bright green parrot with a striking red forehead spot, which is one of New Zealand's characteristic bird species. It was once widespread on both main islands as well as on many smaller islands. It owes its unusual German name to its “bleating” call and the way it moves on the ground with quick jumps and climbing movements, similar to a goat.

Kiwi (Apteryx australis lawryi, Rakiura Tokoeka):

Although nocturnal, kiwis can sometimes be spotted in daylight - a special feature of the Rakiura subspecies. I planned a separate night walk on Stewart Island for kiwi observations. Unfortunately, there are no photos.

The southern striped kiwi, a subspecies of the southern kiwi (Apteryx australis), is a nocturnal, flightless bird and probably one of New Zealand's best-known symbols. With its long, down-curved beak, shaggy brown plumage, and plump build, the kiwi almost looks like an animal relic from another time, which is not far from the truth. As a ground dweller , A. a. lawryi mainly inhabits the south-western rainforests of Stewart Island (Rakiura) and is characterized by its extraordinary adaptation to nocturnal life on the forest floor.

Weka (Gallirallus australis)

The Weka, or Weka for short, is a flightless, curious, and often quite bold bird that is found exclusively in New Zealand. With its strong beak, brown streaked feathers, and striking red eyes, it looks like a cross between a chicken and a game bird - and is actually closely related to rails. Wekas live in a variety of habitats, including dense forests, bushland, grasslands, and even near the coast, especially on the South Island and some offshore islands.

Their behavior is particularly striking: wekas are known to steal anything portable - shiny objects, tools, picnic utensils - which makes them an amusing, sometimes annoying, companion for hikers. They are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, and roots as well as insects, small reptiles, and even carrion. Despite their adaptability, they are endangered in some regions, having been decimated by introduced predators, habitat loss, and occasional road accidents.

Tui (Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae)

The New Zealand Tui honeyeater is a strikingly colored honeyeater with shimmering metallic, dark green-blue plumage, a white throat pouch, and an amazing voice. It belongs to the honeyeater family (Meliphagidae) and is native to both main islands and some offshore islands of New Zealand. Tui inhabit a wide variety of habitats - from coastal forests and wetlands to parks, gardens, and urban green spaces - and play an important role as pollinators of many endemic plant species such as kōwhai and flax.Meliphagidae) und ist auf beiden Hauptinseln sowie einigen vorgelagerten Inseln Neuseelands heimisch. Tuis bewohnen verschiedenste Lebensräume – von Küstenwäldern und Feuchtgebieten über Parks und Gärten bis hin zu städtischen Grünflächen – und spielen eine wichtige Rolle als Bestäuber vieler endemischer Pflanzenarten wie der Kōwhai oder der Flachsgewächse.

The tui is particularly well known for its complex, almost electronic-sounding vocal repertoire. Not only can it produce a variety of natural sounds, it can also imitate other birds, human voices, and noises - often with breathtaking precision. In Maori culture, the tui is regarded as a sacred bird, messenger, and symbol of expressiveness and eloquence. It owes its name to its two-syllable, bell-like call, which can often be heard, especially during the mating season.

Bellbird (Anthornis melanura, Korimako)

These melodious singers are omnipresent and, together with the tui honeyeaters, provide a natural soundscape during the visit. As honeyeaters with brush-like tongues that enable them to suck nectar and honeydew from the trunks of beech trees, they play an important role in the pollination of numerous plants.

Best Time to go Birdwatching on Ulva Island

The best time for birdwatching on Ulva Island is New Zealand spring and summer, from September to March. During these months, the birds are particularly active as they mate, nest, and raise their young. Many endemic species, such as the South Island saddlebird, the cocoa parrot or the curious weka can be easily observed. The birdlife is particularly lively in the early morning or late afternoon, as many species search for food at these times. Ulva Island is also an excellent place for birdwatching outside the breeding season, as the island is inhabited by rare and endangered species all year round.

Guided Birdwatching Tours and self-guided Hikes

There are numerous ways to explore Ulva Island:

• Guided tours:Experienced guides offer exciting insights into the island's unique wildlife and history. These tours are particularly recommended for spotting rare bird species and learning interesting facts about the ecosystem and its history. Ulva Island has a rich cultural history and significance to the Māori people, who call the island ‘Te Wharawhara’. The guides also know the favorite places of the different bird species.
• Self-guided walks: There are well-marked walking trails that lead through the forest or along the coast. The paths are easy to follow and allow for individual exploration tours. Maps are available on Stewart Island or can be viewed at the landing stage on Ulva Island.: Es gibt gut ausgeschilderte Wanderwege, die durch den Wald oder an der Küste entlang führen. Die Wege sind einfach zu begehen und ermöglichen individuelle Erkundungstouren. Karten sind in Stewart Island erhältlich oder an der Anlegestelle auf Ulva Island einsehbar.

Rules of Conduct for Visitors

To ensure the protection of birdlife, you should observe the following rules:

• Stay on the marked paths to avoid disturbing sensitive habitats.
• Do not feed any animals - not even the curious Weka.
• Avoid making loud noises so as not to frighten the birds.
• Take all garbage back with you to keep the island clean.
• Wear clean shoes to prevent the introduction of foreign seeds or diseases.

Practical Tips for your Birdwatching Visit to Ulva Island

Ulva Island is only accessible by boat from Stewart Island. Water cabs and guided tours depart regularly from Golden Bay on Stewart Island. The crossing takes around five to ten minutes. There is no accommodation on Ulva Island, so visitors need to plan day trips. As there is no café or store on the island, it is important to carry sufficient water and provisions.

The Magic of Ulva Island - a final Word

Apart from the birds, I was impressed by the untouched nature. Huge fern trees, ancient rimu and totara trees, and moss cushions created a fairytale atmosphere. As I walked through the forest, I felt like I was in a bygone era.

At the end of the day, I returned with countless memories. Ulva Island is more than a place for birdwatching - it is a journey back in time to a world where nature can thrive undisturbed.Practical tips for your birdwatching visit to Ulva Island

Book Recommendations for New Zealand

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books*.

You can order the books with a click on the pictures on Amazon. If you buy a product via an affiliate link, I get a small commission, and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you, and you will do me a huge favor.

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

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Recommendations for further Reading

Do you love remote places and lonely landscapes as much as I do? Then you might also be interested in my article Photographing Madeira – the best Photo Locations for Nature Lovers and my article Leave No Trace! Principles for Nature-friendly Outdoor Life.

Der Beitrag Birdwatching auf Ulva Island, Neuseeland erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.

New Zealand. Farewell Spit is a narrow, curved sandbank on the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, near Golden Bay. It is one of New Zealand's most famous and remote destinations for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and landscape photographers. In the following article, you can discover what makes Farewell Spit so special and how to best explore the area.

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About Farewell Spit in New Zealand

At over 28 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide, Farewell Spit is one of the longest natural sand dunes in the world. It was formed over thousands of years by the deposition of sand from nearby rivers and coastal currents. Most of the spit is a nature reserve, classified as a bird sanctuary and wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. Farewell Spit is home to over 90 species of birds, including black-tailed godwits, northern gannets, and oystercatchers. Marine life, particularly New Zealand fur seals and unfortunately the occasional beached whale, can also be seen on the beach.

The Highlights of Farewell Spit

The Farewell Spit headland can only be explored on your own for the first four kilometers. For all other places worth seeing, you have to take part in a guided tour. The only tour provider is Farewell Spit Eco Tours (as of Nov 2024).

Unique Landscape of Sand Dunes

Farewell Spit is a fascinating combination of miles of sand dunes, quiet beaches, and a rugged coastline. The contrast between the Tasman Sea on one side and the calm tidal flats on the other is particularly impressive. Those who climb the huge sand dunes have a spectacular view of the surrounding area from the top. PHOTO TIP: The wavy lines painted into the sand by the wind are a great motif for detailed shots.

Wildlife

During low tide, numerous birds are foraging on the mudflats of Golden Bay, including black swans, oystercatchers, knots, and bar-tailed godwits. As soon as the water rises again, many of the waders move to the Tasman Sea side, where you can see them in large flocks at the waterline.

Some guided tours also visit the gannet colony, which is the only colony on a beach in New Zealand.

Most of the time you can also see fur seals resting on the sand. Unfortunately, Farewell Spit is also the scene of numerous strandings of long-finned pilot whales and is known as a “whale trap” due to its protruding coastline and long, gently sloping beaches. During my visit in November 2024, there was a stranded sperm whale on the Tasman Sea side. A sad sight.

Farewell Spit Lighthouse

Another highlight of a guided tour is the historic lighthouse. Here you can learn more about the history of the Spit and the work of the lighthouse keepers. A small exhibition shows exhibits from the animal world and provides information about the nature of the spit.

Shipwrecks

Farewell Spit has been the scene of numerous shipwrecks. Most of these incidents occurred when a ship ran aground on sand in shallow water near the spit, either through navigational error or because it was driven ashore in bad weather. None of the wrecks were visible during my tour, but we were shown a sand dune under which a ship is said to be buried.

Cape Farewell

Directly west of the spit is Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of the South Island. It offers dramatic cliffs and coastal views.

Wharariki Beach

Wharariki Beach begins just five kilometers west of the base of the headland, next to Cape Farewell. The beach is known for its striking rock formations with caves, cliffs and the offshore Archway Islands. At sunset, the beach is a popular destination for photographers.

Visit Farewell Spit: Tours and on your own

Access to much of Farewell Spit is restricted to guided tours in order to protect the fragile ecosystem. Farewell Spit Eco Tours is the only licensed tour provider. Possible tours with the 4×4 bus start either from the small town of Collingwood or at the parking lot at the base of the sand spit. Click here to visit the Farewell Spit Eco Tours website..

Want to explore Farewell Spit on your own? You can do that in the first four kilometers of the sand spit. You can walk along Golden Bay and also along the Tasman Sea. The Cape Farewell and Wharariki Beach viewpoints are also freely accessible.

What makes the Tour special?

• Seclusion:As access is severely restricted, you experience Farewell Spit almost without other visitors and have the feeling of being in one of the most remote places in New Zealand.
• Unforgettable photo opportunities:Whether sunset, sand dunes or wildlife - there are numerous opportunities for impressive pictures.

Best time to visit Farewell Spit

Summer (November to February) is ideal for birdwatching as migratory species such as bar-tailed godwits and knot can be seen. The guided tours are timed with the tides to allow optimal access to the spit.

Tips for visiting Farewell Spit

• Bring: Water, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and camera.
• Clothing: Windproof jacket and comfortable shoes for walking in sand and dunes.
• The tours are often fully booked quickly, especially in the high season. Book early!
• Respect the protected areas and follow the guide's instructions to ensure the preservation of this unique environment.

Book Recommendations for New Zealand

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books*.

You can order the books with a click on the pictures on Amazon. If you buy a product via an affiliate link, I get a small commission, and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you, and you will do me a huge favor.

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Recommendations for further Reading

Do you love birding as much as I do? Then you'll definitely be interested in my article Birdwatching for Beginners - with Binoculars in Search of Happiness and my article Storks, Cranes & Co - Birdwatching around the "Stork Village" Linum.

Der Beitrag Ausflug zu den Dünen von Farewell Spit, Neuseeland erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.

New Zealand. Do you like walking in ancient forests? Then you've come to the right place. This forest is, believe it or not, over 170 million years old. Dinosaurs lived here and probably ate the leaves off the trees: the fossilized forest of Curio Bay. Dating back to the Jurassic period, this subtropical forest is the geological treasure of the Catlins Coast in the south of New Zealand's South Island and offers a unique journey into the past.

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Why is the Curio Bay Petrified Forest unique?

• These are not fossil fragments, but clearly recognizable tree structures.
• The fossils date back to the Jurassic period, when dinosaurs ruled the earth.
• The forest is one of the best preserved fossil forests in the world and offers a rare insight into the subtropical ecosystem of Gondwana.

A subtropical petrified Forest

First things first: the petrified forest can only be seen up to two hours before/after low tide. Click here for the tide table.. If you stand at the viewing platform at the right time, you will first see a large area of rocky seabed. I only saw the petrified tree trunks and stumps when I went down the stairs and stood right in front of them. But then my eyes got bigger and bigger. I recognized several lying tree trunks as well as tree stumps and roots. I could even see the wood fibers and sometimes annual rings.

Around 170 million years ago during the Jurassic period, the region around Curio Bay was part of a subtropical, warm climate. At that time, the current location was close to Antarctica and the continents were still part of the supercontinent Gondwana. The forest consisted of primeval conifers, ferns and palm-like plants. These plants grew in a swampy, volcanically active area. Grass and flowering plants did not exist at that time.

Destruction of the Forest by volcanic Eruptions and the Fossilization Process

A series of volcanic eruptions in the region buried the forest under volcanic ash and sediment. This process happened several times, with each new eruption depositing fresh ash and lava over the vegetation. The trees and plants were thus preserved.

The actual process of fossilization took place over millions of years:

• Deposition of minerals: water seeping through the volcanic deposits was rich in silica and other minerals.
• Replacement of organic matter: Minerals were deposited in the cells of the trees and gradually replaced the organic materials.
• Preserving the structure: This process preserved fine details such as annual rings, bark and roots - but in a stony form.

Over millions of years, the overlying rock layer was removed by erosion, finally exposing the petrified forest on the coast.

“Forest Creatures" - Yellow-eyed Penguins in Curio Bay

In Curio Bay, where the petrified forest is located, you have a good chance of spotting yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho). These rare penguins come ashore in the late afternoon or evening. Be quiet and keep at least 50 meters away so as not to disturb the penguins. Seals and sea lions can also often be observed on the rocks.

Practical Information for your Visit

The nearby Tumu Toka Curioscape Visitor Centre offers an interactive exhibition about the petrified forest of Curio Bay and the history of the Catlins. You can also find information about the wildlife and nature conservation in the region. There is a café and a souvenir store. There is a campsite right next to the visitor center.

A short, paved path leads from the parking lot to a viewing platform with a view of the fossilized remains of the ancient forest. Information boards at the viewing point explain the history and significance of the petrified forest. At low tide, access to the petrified forest is via the steps of the viewing platform.

Book Recommendations for New Zealand

You want to know where the journey goes? Then I can recommend these books*.

You can order the books with a click on the pictures on Amazon. If you buy a product via an affiliate link, I get a small commission, and you help me to keep filling Fernweh-Motive with interesting articles. The product will not be more expensive for you, and you will do me a huge favor.

Do you want to know when there are new articles on my blog? Then follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram. I would also be very happy if you share my article with your friends.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Recommendations for further Reading

Do you love forests - whether petrified or alive - as much as I do? Then you'll definitely be interested in the Fanal laurel forest, which you can find out more about in my article Photographing Madeira – the best Photo Locations for Nature Lovers and my article Leave No Trace! Principles for Nature-friendly Outdoor Life.

Der Beitrag Versteinerter Wald von Curio Bay: Spaziergang durch die Jurazeit erschien zuerst auf Fernweh-Motive.