Where to see kiwi in New Zealand

Planning a New Zealand road trip by campervan? This special part of the world is full of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unique wildlife and no trip here is complete without spotting the iconic kiwi bird. In this helpful guide, we'll share the best spots to add to your New Zealand itinerary to see these elusive creatures in their natural habitat. From lush forests and remote islands to dedicated wildlife sanctuaries, discover where you can encounter kiwi as you explore the country in an Apollo campervan hire.

What are kiwi?

Kiwi are unique, flightless birds endemic to New Zealand. They’re also instantly recognisable and beloved as our national symbol. These nocturnal birds are known for their distinctive features: small, round bodies covered in shaggy brown feathers, long beaks with nostrils at the tip, and strong, sturdy legs. Unlike most birds, kiwi have a highly developed sense of smell, which they use to forage for insects and other small creatures in the leaf litter. Their elusive nature and endangered status make spotting a kiwi in the wild a rare and special event, underscoring their importance in New Zealand's cultural and natural heritage.

Things to keep in mind when trying to spot a kiwi

Spotting a kiwi in its natural habitat is a thrilling experience that requires some preparation and respect for these shy creatures. Here are a few key tips to enhance your chances of a successful encounter.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Be patient

Kiwi are nocturnal and extremely cautious, so patience is essential. Plan your outing for after dark, and be prepared to spend several hours quietly observing. The reward of seeing a kiwi in its natural environment is well worth the wait.

Stay quiet

Noise can easily scare away kiwi, so maintain a low profile and minimise sound. Whisper if you need to communicate and avoid sudden movements. The quieter you are, the better your chances of witnessing these fascinating birds up close.

Use red light

Bright lights can startle kiwi and disrupt their natural behaviour. Use a red light torch instead, as it is less disturbing to the birds and allows you to observe them without causing distress. Many wildlife tours provide red light equipment for this purpose.

Respect their habitat

Kiwi habitats are often fragile ecosystems. Stick to designated paths and avoid trampling vegetation. Refrain from touching or feeding the birds, as human interaction can harm them and their environment. Always follow local guidelines to ensure the protection of these precious creatures.

The best way to go kiwi spotting

Exploring New Zealand in search of the elusive kiwi is an adventure best experienced with the freedom and flexibility of an Apollo campervan. Here’s why travelling in a campervan hire is the ideal way to go kiwi spotting:

Flexibility: With an Apollo campervan hire, you're not tied to hotel bookings or rigid schedules. This flexibility allows you to visit multiple kiwi spotting locations and stay as long as you need to increase your chances of seeing these nocturnal birds.
Convenience: A camper provides all the comforts of home on wheels. After a night of kiwi spotting, you can return to your cosy campervan, cook a meal in your own kitchen, and rest up for the next adventure.
Access to remote areas: Some of the best places to see kiwi are in remote, off-the-beaten-path locations. A motorhome gives you the ability to drive to these secluded spots and park close to nature reserves and forests.
Cost-effective: Travelling in a campervan can be more economical than staying in hotels, especially in popular tourist regions. You can save on accommodation and food expenses by preparing meals in your fully equipped camper.
Immersive experience: A New Zealand road trip in a campervan allows you to fully immerse yourself in the country's stunning landscapes and natural beauty. You'll have the freedom to explore at your own pace and make spontaneous stops to enjoy the scenery or other things to do in New Zealand.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

The best places to see kiwi in New Zealand

Keen to maximise your chances of spotting a kiwi on your New Zealand road trip? Here are some top spots worth adding to your travel itinerary.

1. Orokawa Scenic Reserve, Bay of Plenty

Located in the Bay of Plenty, Orokawa Scenic Reserve offers not only beautiful coastal views but also the chance to see kiwi birds in their natural habitat. This picturesque reserve features walking tracks that wind through native bush, providing ample opportunities for spotting kiwi after dusk. The peacefulness of the reserve, combined with its scenic beauty, makes it a great spot to add to your travel itinerary.

Best place to stay: For a convenient base, consider parking up your campervan at the Bowentown Beach Holiday Park. Located near Waihi Beach, this holiday park is an ideal spot to relax and recharge after a night of kiwi spotting.

2. Tiritiri Matangi Island, Auckland

Tiritiri Matangi Island is a pest-free wildlife sanctuary in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf. This beautiful island, renowned for its successful conservation efforts, is home to various native bird species, making it a bird watcher's paradise. During the day, you can see tui, takahē, kōkako, and more as you explore the island's lush landscape. To reach the island, you can take a ferry from Auckland, which provides a scenic ride across the Hauraki Gulf.

Best place to stay: For the best opportunity to see kiwi, it's recommended to stay overnight. The overnight accommodation on Tiritiri Matangi Island is in the former lighthouse keeper's cottage. It offers 15 bunks across three rooms and is equipped with all necessary cooking utensils, a fridge, freezer, microwave, gas stove, BBQ, and bathroom facilities with hot showers.

3. Kāpiti Island, Paraparaumu

A must-visit destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, Kāpiti Island is just a short ferry ride from Paraparaumu Beach. This stunning nature reserve is home to a variety of native wildlife. As you explore the island's lush forests and scenic trails, you might spot kaka, kōkako, and even little blue penguins. During the day, you can join guided nature walks, take in breathtaking views from the island's highest points, and learn about the rich history and conservation efforts that make Kāpiti Island so special.

Best place to stay: For a truly bucket list experience, consider an overnight stay on Kāpiti Island. Accommodation options range from cosy cabins to popular glamping tents. The overnight package includes a guided night walk for kiwi spotting, an introductory talk with a guide, and a guided day walk. You’ll also enjoy chef-prepared meals, evening drinks, and return ferry tickets.

4. Okarito Kiwi Tour, South Westland

For a truly unique kiwi spotting experience, head to Okarito on the West Coast of the South Island, near Franz Josef. This small historic settlement, surrounded by wetlands and rainforests, offers guided tours that give you the rare chance to see the Okarito kiwi, also known as the Rowi. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours take small groups deep into kiwi habitat, increasing your chances of seeing these fascinating birds in the wild. During the day, you can explore the scenic beauty of Okarito Lagoon, go kayaking, or take a walk along the beach.

Best place to stay: Park your campervan up at the Okarito Campground, a comfy and convenient base for your kiwi spotting adventure. Staying here allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Okarito and be ready for your evening tour.

5. Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary, Wellington

Just minutes from Wellington's city centre, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is a groundbreaking conservation project. This 225-hectare urban eco-sanctuary is home to some of New Zealand’s most rare and special wildlife and provides guided night tours where you can spot kiwi. During the day, you can explore the many walking trails, visit the interactive exhibition, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while learning about New Zealand’s unique species.

Best place to stay: For a convenient and central place to park up, head to Cuba Street Motorhome Park. This motorhome park offers powered parking in a sheltered, quiet environment right in the heart of Wellington. Just a short walk from the vibrant Cuba Street, you’ll be close to fantastic bars, eateries, and popular tourist attractions like Te Papa and the Beehive.

6. Rakiura / Stewart Island

Stewart Island, also known as Rakiura, is located off the southern coast of New Zealand's South Island and is one of the best places to see kiwi in their natural habitat. The island's remote location and largely untouched wilderness make it a paradise for nature lovers. Kiwi are plentiful here, and it's one of the few places where you can see them during the day as well as at night. The island’s lush rainforests, secluded beaches, and tranquil surroundings create an ideal environment for these iconic birds.

Best place to stay: While there's no campervan accommodation on Stewart Island itself, you can park up at The Bluff Campground on the mainland. This campground offers a convenient spot to leave your campervan before catching the ferry. The ferry ride across Foveaux Strait takes about an hour, providing stunning views and a chance to spot marine wildlife along the way.

Plan your kiwi spotting adventure with Apollo

A kiwi spotting adventure in New Zealand is an experience like no other. From the remote island of Tiritiri Matangi to the southern shores of Rakiura, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to encounter these special birds. All it takes is just a little bit of planning. And that starts with booking your Apollo campervan!

With an Apollo camper, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility to explore New Zealand’s incredible destinations at your own pace. Travel with ease, stay close to nature, and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of New Zealand.

Don’t miss out on this amazing adventure. Book your Apollo campervan online today and start planning your perfect kiwi spotting road trip.