Wild, Wacky & Woolly: The Animals of New Zealand

In our imaginations, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/oceania/new-zealand">New Zealand</a> still conjures images of dramatic natural beauty. From deep fjords to majestic glaciers, the variety of landscapes here never ceases to amaze … but if you stop to look a little closer, you’ll see just how remarkable the fauna is, too.The lonely island of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/oceania/new-zealand">New Zealand</a>, in the evolutionary scheme of things, has only been inhabited by humans for the last 900 years. Isolated from the mainland, there are no native mammals on the island, save for those who could fly or swim there. Along the shores, you’ll see pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), cetaceans (whales and dolphins), and on land, the sole native mammal is the bat.

Ecological niches that are typically occupied by mammals gave way to the proliferation of insects and birds, making New Zealand a birder’s paradise.As there were no large mammals on the island to threaten bird populations, the birds (and even a few bats) here evolved to become largely flightless, preferring to walk around on two feet. (And, unlike our neighbours to the north, there are no snakes in New Zealand!)Unfortunately, there have been many cases of non-native species like the Polynesian rat, the possum and even feral cats, all which pose a serious threat to the continued (and tenuous) existence of New Zealand’s flora and fauna. Many conservation efforts centre around eradicating, or creating safe havens for, plants and animals to recover and thrive once more.

<h3>Kiwi</h3>New Zealand’s national bird, a nickname for an entire nation (and the namesake of that fuzzy fruit), the flightless kiwi bird is shy and nocturnal, with a keen sense of smell. These elusive and rare birds mate for life once male and female breeding pairs are bonded; kiwis will only nest one precious egg per season. The kiwi also lays the largest-sized egg in proportion to its body size of any bird in the world, up to a quarter of its weight.<h3>Kakapo</h3>Also known as the owl parrot, the kakapo is the only species of flightless parrot in the world. A critically endangered species, there remain only about 154 recorded living individuals. Due to Polynesian and European colonization, and the introduction of predators, the kakapo was almost wiped out. It was also traditionally hunted for its meat and feathers by the Maori (and occasionally kept as a pet). The kakapo is also known for its distinctive odour, which has been described as ‘musty’. Hmm.

<h3>Sheep</h3>Here in New Zealand, we’re outnumbered by sheep. They animals were first introduced by British explorer Captain James Cook in 1773. With three million people and a population of sixty million sheep, New Zealand has the distinction of having the highest density of sheep per unit area in the world, with resultant worldwide trade in lambs, meat, wool and other related products; however, dairy farming has been the country’s most important agricultural industry since 1987.

<h3>Tuatara</h3>A throwback from the dinosaur era, evolution has been kind to the tuatara — it’s the only surviving member of its species, which originally flourished 200 million years ago. Its name is derived from the Maori word which means ‘peaks on the back’. Tuatara are inclined to longevity with an average lifespan of 60 years, but they can live to be well over 100. Some scientists believe that in captivity, this could extend to as long as 200 years.

<h3>Kea</h3>This cheeky parrot, high in intelligence and curiosity, has been known to destroy cars and fly away with unattended items (see: your passport), but that’s not even what makes it distinctive: it’s the only alpine parrot in the world. An attraction for tourists and a pest to locals, the kea has definitely earned its title as the “clown of the mountains”.

<h3>Hector’s dolphin</h3>Endemic to the shallow coastline, here you’ll find the smallest and rarest marine dolphins in the world. Only about four feet long, these little dolphins have distinctive black markings on their faces, and have a dorsal fin that’s rounded like a Mickey Mouse ear. Unfortunately, due to fishing practices, many dolphins find themselves caught in nets and end up suffocating. There are only about 8,000 Hector’s dolphins left in the wild; a smaller subspecies, the Maui dolphin, is estimated to have only 55 remaining adults left. See them while you can.

<h3>Weta</h3>Unique in the world, these giant flightless insects, which resemble grasshoppers and crickets, are native to New Zealand and among the largest and heaviest insects in the world. Their bodies can measure as long as 10 cm (about 4 inches) not including legs and antennae, and they can weigh in heavier than 70 grams (2.5 ounces). You’ll find weta just about anywhere in diverse environments around the country, such as caves, grasslands, alpine environments and more.

<h3>Moa</h3>A giant flightless bird that went extinct in the 14thC primarily due to overhunting by the Maori, the moa once stood an imposing 3.6m (12 feet) high and weighed 230 kg (over 500 pounds). An ancient cousin to the kiwi, it looked like an ostrich on steroids. These giant chickens were the dominant herbivores in New Zealand for thousands of years, and are ancient cousins to the kiwi.&nbsp; Come see the amazing variety of wildlife in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/oceania/new-zealand">New Zealand</a> with your own eyes. Small group <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/new-zealand-biking">biking</a> or <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/new-zealand-bespoke">bespoke</a>, there's something for everyone, and a world of wonder that awaits.

Discover New Zealand’s most unique animals—from flightless birds and ancient reptiles to rare marine life, shaped by isolation and unlike anywhere else on Earth.

New Zealand’s Wild Animals | Unique & Unusual Wildlife to Discover

New Zealand

Welcome to New Zealand, where lush landscapes, breathtaking coastlines and vibrant culture await at every turn. Known as Aotearoa in Māori, New Zealand captivates travellers with its wild beauty, friendly locals and quiet luxury. At Butterfield &amp; Robinson, we believe in journeys that go beyond the ordinary. Our New Zealand trips are crafted for those who seek the thrill of exploration while enjoying unparalleled luxury, comfort and authenticity.We'll take you from the geothermal wonders and vineyards of the North Island to the adventure-laden South Island, where breathtaking fjords and rugged peaks await. Uncover the energy of New Zealand through exclusive, memorable moments that will be so special, they'll leave you wanting more.

An adventure lovers paradise

Discover Queenstown, cruise Milford Sound and bike Marlborough wine country on a luxury guided or private New Zealand tour. Expert guides since the 1980s.

Luxury Biking & Hiking, New Zealand | Butterfield & Robinson

It’s all about the purity of its Middle-Earth-like wilderness, the fresh attitude of the Kiwis’ approach to life and the friendliness of its people. New Zealand is a destination that we&nbsp;love&nbsp;to explore—from the silent waterways of Fiordland to its towering mountain peaks and rich Maori culture. We love "tramping" the famous walking tracks, rafting the rapids and luxuriating in world-class lodges. And to land by heli on a deserted glacier is something to be celebrated—naturally—with a glass of New Zealand sparkling in hand.

Nature's Wonder

Understated Luxury

Active Adventure

New Zealand is cinematic in every sense—glacier landings with bubbly in hand, trails that redefine “epic” and coastlines rugged enough to stop you mid-hike. Tramp through Fiordland, soak in hot springs and connect with Māori culture that runs deep. With jaw-dropping lodges and even better locals, Aotearoa doesn’t just welcome you—it wows you.

Raw, rugged adventure awaits hidden in the heart of the Pacific 

There’s something pure, fresh and primal about New Zealand

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Hike ancient rainforests, kayak among orca pods and bike New Zealand's South Island on a custom itinerary. New Zealand's finest experiences, privately guided.

New Zealand Private Tours: Rainforests, Orca Kayaking & South Island Biking

Nestled between the vast Pacific Ocean, rugged mountain ranges and shimmering lakes, New Zealand is a cyclist's paradise waiting to be discovered. Kia ora! Cycle the land of the long white cloud and the vibrant city of Christchurch, where a private charter flight is waiting to whisk you over the Southern Alps to Lake Tepako. Head to Lakestone Lodge, your first exclusively booked retreat, where you’ll quickly feel immersed in the awe-inspiring beauty of this Dark Sky Reserve. Venture further south to cycle along the famed Alps to Ocean Trail, then retreat to The Lindis, a luxurious hideaway tucked between the mountains and the serene Ahuriri River. Explore the picturesque Matukituki River by jet boat, then venture to Queenstown, the world-famous mountain town brimming with adventure and charm. Between exclusively-booked properties, incredible gastronomic experiences and heart-stirring rides, you’ll quickly feel an intimate connection to this magical corner of the world.&nbsp;

Incredible Rides

Off the Beaten Path

Luxurious Stays

New Zealand isn’t just a cyclist’s paradise—it’s a cinematic love letter to Mother Nature. Wing your way over the Southern Alps, ride the legendary Alps to Ocean Trail, and unwind in jaw-dropping lodges booked just for us. From starry skies at Lake Tekapo to jet boating in Wānaka, Aotearoa delivers magic, mountains, and more “wow” than your camera can handle.

Cycle along the South Island

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

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Experience Designer

Our new Limited Edition New Zealand Biking trip offers an unparalleled journey through the South Island, one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes. Created by local Experience Designer Rob Grieve, this exclusive itinerary invites you to cycle through strikingly diverse terrain—from the fertile Canterbury Plains to the rugged foothills of the Southern Alps—immersing you fully in the South Island’s wild and breathtaking beauty.Savour New Zealand’s renowned food and wine, unwind at private luxury lodges, and explore untamed landscapes by jet boat and scenic flights. Stargaze under the protected skies of a Dark Sky Reserve and enjoy exclusive stays at Lakestone Lodge, The Lindis, Hulbert House, and Whare Kea Lodge—each a distinctive property embodying the spirit of the South Island.

Discover the magic

Spend 5 nights biking New Zealand's South Island in a small group. Glacier-fed lakes, 3,000m peaks and river valleys so perfect they barely look real.

Wild, Wacky & Woolly: The Animals of New Zealand

By Rob Grieve

New Zealand

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