Over one hundred unique species of birds live in New Zealand, and there is no better way to search for them than on horseback. Traveling by horse will allow visitors to quickly cover large areas of ground and spend all morning watching birds without tiring. Horseback riding is also one of the most ecologically friendly ways to explore New Zealand’s bird habitats. Children and adults alike can easily learn enough basic horseback riding skills to thoroughly enjoy the experience and stay safe. Experienced guides are also readily available to help tourists feel comfortable with their horses and to assist them in species identification.
As an island with no mammals other than bats, New Zealand has become home to an exceptionally wide variety of birds. Its ecologically diverse habitat has attracted terrestrial, wetland, and seabirds, many of which live nowhere else in the world. However, habitat loss has taken a toll on many of these populations. Numerous bird species in New Zealand are now threatened, and although conservation efforts are underway, those hoping to see the endangered kiwi or hear the beautiful song of the kokako should consider a bird watching tour of New Zealand by horseback for their next vacation.