The mohua (yellowhead) is a small songbird that is characterised by their bright yellow-green chests and heads. With its distinctive appearance, this special bird is a highly sought-after species for birdwatchers and conservationists. The mohua is endemic to New Zealand and is mainly found in forest…
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Did you know that there are more species of penguins that call New Zealand home than any other country? We are particularly blessed with these beautiful birds here in Southland as we have three species that can be found on our shores. The tawaki Fiordland crested penguins can be found along the…
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The flightless takahē is a unique bird, a conservation icon and a survivor that is endemic to New Zealand. Its body is covered in dark feathers with a distinctive blue-green sheen. The bird has a robust build, strong legs, and a thick, red bill. Thought to be extinct for nearly half a century…
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The kākāpō is a native bird species in New Zealand and the world’s largest and heaviest parrot, growing to around 60 centimeters high and weighing up to 4 kilograms. These magnificent birds sport bright green plumage and possess almost clownlike feet. The bird's most distinctive feature is its face…
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Without a doubt, New Zealand’s most famous bird, the kiwi has become ubiquitous in Kiwi culture. There are five species of Kiwi and the Tokoeka species calls Southland home. Each species has distinct characteristics and habitats. Kiwi are small flightless birds, measuring around 45 to 55 centimeters…
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New Zealanders love their coffee. You might think we're a tea-drinking nation (hello British heritage) but over the past few decades, coffee has surpassed tea as our favourite hot drink. This increased popularity of coffee has seen new cafés and coffee-roasting spots popping up all over the country…
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Dive into a world of tantalizing taste and oceanic delights when you try a Bluff Oyster! These little ocean gems, harvested from the pristine waters of New Zealand, pack a powerful punch of flavour that will make your taste buds sing. With their smooth texture and briny sweetness, Bluff Oysters are…
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Go inland Southland and get up high. Southland from about the skyline offers some spectacular rural scenic views. Poppelwells lookout in Dolamore Park provides amazing views of the Southland Plains and on a clear day you can even see Stewart Island/ Rakiura. Forest Hill Scenic Reserve is a valuable…
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Being the second largest region in New Zealand means there are plenty of instagrammable or Instagram-worthy spots in Southland that are just waiting to be captured and hashtagged with #mysouthland and #southlandnz Here are our top 10 most Instagrammable spots in Southland. If you think you have…
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