Safari in New Zealand

New Zealand's wildlife is dominated by extraordinary birdlife - the iconic kiwi, the world's only alpine parrot (kea), and the rare takahē. Kaikōura...

New Zealand Safari at a Glance

5 safari regions, 35 parks & reserves, 56 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for New Zealand

UK FCDO: See travel advice before travelling.

Best Time to Visit New Zealand

The best months to visit New Zealand are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 13.8°C, rainfall 139.2mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 78%
  • February: Poor, temperature 13.5°C, rainfall 177.8mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 79.5%
  • March: Poor, temperature 11.3°C, rainfall 147.4mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 81%
  • April: Poor, temperature 9.6°C, rainfall 148.3mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 82.6%
  • May: Poor, temperature 7.3°C, rainfall 185.6mm, sunshine 6.5 hrs, humidity 84.2%
  • June: Poor, temperature 5.4°C, rainfall 173mm, sunshine 5.7 hrs, humidity 85.6%
  • July: Poor, temperature 4.1°C, rainfall 201.2mm, sunshine 5.8 hrs, humidity 85.5%
  • August: Poor, temperature 4.5°C, rainfall 193.5mm, sunshine 7.1 hrs, humidity 84.9%
  • September: Poor, temperature 5.7°C, rainfall 228.9mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 83%
  • October: Poor, temperature 7.9°C, rainfall 204.8mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 82.3%
  • November: Poor, temperature 10.3°C, rainfall 195.1mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • December: Poor, temperature 12.5°C, rainfall 196.7mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 80.8%

Wildlife in New Zealand

Home to 56 recorded species including 28 waterbirds, 12 iconic birds, 7 marine & freshwater, 5 birds of prey, 3 tropical birds, 1 big herbivores.

Notable Species in New Zealand

Recommended Packing List for New Zealand

Based on average temperature of 8.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 82%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 9°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - New Zealand

New Zealand offers an incredibly safe and welcoming environment for travellers, provided you respect its powerful natural beauty. While crime rates are low, we always advise vigilance in the outdoors and preparedness for its dynamic landscapes. Prioritise comprehensive travel insurance to fully enjoy your journey through this extraordinary land of birds and breathtaking vistas.

Visa

For many nationalities, including those from the US, UK, Canada, and most of Europe, you won't need a traditional visa for stays up to three months. However, we strongly recommend applying for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) well in advance of your trip. It's a straightforward online process, and you'll also need to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) at the same time. Don't leave it to the last minute; processing can take a few days.

Malaria

We are pleased to report that New Zealand is entirely malaria-free. You can leave the anti-malarial medication at home and simply enjoy the crisp, clean air.

Safari Calendar - New Zealand

New Zealand offers extraordinary wildlife encounters year-round, but we find the shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) particularly appealing for their moderate crowds and excellent wildlife activity. Summer (December-February) is undeniably beautiful and warm, perfect for marine adventures and exploring the Sub-Antarctic Islands, though it is the busiest period. For those seeking tranquility and dramatic landscapes, winter (June-August) provides unique opportunities for whale watching in Kaikōura and experiencing the majestic Fiordland National Park under a serene blanket of snow.

January - Summer

We recommend venturing to the remote Sub-Antarctic Islands for an unparalleled experience with vast colonies of albatrosses and penguins, a truly wild and unforgettable journey.

February - Summer

We suggest exploring the pristine waters of Abel Tasman National Park by kayak, combining stunning coastal scenery with opportunities to spot fur seals and marine birds.

March - Autumn

We love a visit to Stewart Island/Rakiura in March to search for the iconic kiwi in its natural nocturnal habitat, a truly magical experience under the stars.

April - Autumn

We recommend a visit to the Otago Peninsula to witness the charming yellow-eyed penguins and royal albatrosses, a unique wildlife spectacle close to Dunedin.

May - Autumn

We suggest a tranquil journey through Fiordland National Park, where the dramatic landscapes take on a moody beauty and the waterfalls are often at their most powerful.

June - Winter

We find June to be an ideal time for whale watching in Kaikōura, as the migrating humpbacks add to the resident sperm whale population, making for sensational marine encounters.

July - Winter

We recommend a winter escape to Fiordland National Park to witness the dramatic landscapes under a dusting of snow and enjoy the tranquility without the summer crowds.

August - Winter

We suggest a visit to the West Coast to see the little blue penguins returning to their nests at dusk, a charming and accessible wildlife experience.

September - Spring

We love the vibrant energy of spring birding on Tiritiri Matangi Island, where rare native birds are easily spotted and heard in their protected sanctuary.

October - Spring

We recommend a visit to Ulva Island, a predator-free sanctuary near Stewart Island, for an immersive experience with New Zealand's unique forest birds in their natural habitat.

November - Spring

We find November to be a fantastic time to combine marine wildlife encounters in Kaikōura with exploring the burgeoning birdlife in the national parks.

December - Summer

We highly recommend an early December visit to the Sub-Antarctic Islands to witness the incredible spectacle of albatrosses and penguins raising their young before the peak holiday rush.

Safari Regions

New Zealand FAQs

What kind of 'safari' experience can I expect in New Zealand, given it's not a traditional African savanna?

New Zealand's 'safari' focuses on immersive eco-tourism, exploring unique endemic birdlife, marine mammals, and stunning landscapes. Expect guided nature walks, boat tours for whale and dolphin watching, and visits to predator-free sanctuaries rather than vehicle-based game drives. These experiences offer intimate encounters with wildlife in their natural, diverse habitats.

How can I best spot a wild kiwi during my New Zealand trip?

As kiwis are nocturnal and incredibly shy, your best chance to see them in the wild is on a guided night walk in a predator-free sanctuary or reserve. Locations like Stewart Island (Rakiura) or specific wildlife centres on the mainland offer dedicated tours designed to maximize your chances of a sighting. Patience and a quiet approach are key for these rare encounters.

Are there any specific precautions I should take when encountering New Zealand's curious kea parrots?

Kea are highly intelligent and famously inquisitive, often interacting with people and their belongings, especially in alpine areas. While fascinating, it's crucial not to feed them and to secure any unattended items like backpacks or car parts, as they are known to investigate and even damage property. Observe them from a respectful distance to protect both them and your possessions.

When is the optimal time of year to experience New Zealand's diverse marine wildlife, from whales to penguins?

While whale watching in Kaikōura is excellent year-round, the warmer months from October to March are generally optimal for experiencing New Zealand's broader marine diversity. This period offers calmer seas for boat tours and is prime breeding season for many seabirds, including penguins and albatrosses, particularly around the sub-Antarctic islands.

What are the typical costs or accessibility considerations for visiting New Zealand's remote sub-Antarctic islands for penguin and albatross viewing?

Visiting New Zealand's sub-Antarctic islands requires booking a multi-day expedition cruise, which represents a significant investment due to their remote location and the specialized nature of these voyages. Cruises typically depart from Bluff or Invercargill and offer unparalleled, albeit costly, opportunities to witness vast colonies of penguins and albatrosses in a pristine environment.

Recommended Books for New Zealand

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in Australasia