Available languages
7 hours
Mobile ticket
As passionate conservationists we'll take you out of our way to discover birds you have never seen. A full day birding adventure checking out a few sites to maximize your chances to see a range of endemic New Zealand birds. We explore arguably New Zealand's finest forest, stunning estuaries, amazing wetlands and seek out rare birds in their natural habitat.
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 18 years
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
National Park fees
Driver/guide
Lunch
Transport by private vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Gratuities
Select a pickup point
We explore our region looking for New Zealand's endemic birds. We explore forest, wetland and shorebird locations. Come a see some special birds, stunning locations with expert local birders.
specific species: Let us know if the is something you desperately want to see. We love a good "twitch".
Pickup included
Depart from your hotel in Tauranga
Pickup included
Depart from your hotel in Rotorua
Expert guides
Duration: 7 hours
Delicious lunch : We provide delicious deli lunch but please advise dietary requirements if any.
Regional Bay of Plenty : We visit a range of wetland, shorebird and forest sites.
Toyota Prado or Hiace minivan
Pickup included
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
909dianaw,
Jun 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Tom was attentive to our interests and preferences as birders. It was our first time in New Zealand, so we didn't have specific birdwatching "goals". Accordingly, we went at a quick pace, and was able to see 40+ lifers, including the New Zealand dotterel and grey teal; we focused on mostly shorebirds. We traveled around the Bay of Plenty and explored a private forest. Tom was very responsive via email to inquiries about weather, pick up location, and other questions we had. He was also very informative and explained aspects of bird identification. We highly recommend this daylong excursion. Make sure to mention any dietary needs ahead of time as Tom provides lunch.
Rob H,
Mar 16, 2024
- Review from Viator
If you want to learn about birds in NZ, Tom is your guy. We had an epic adventure blasting around the North Island getting all the inside knowledge. Highly recommend Tom for your next birding trip.
SkipAlm,
Jan 3, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
Tom was a very interesting and competent guide for the day. We saw several birds I was hoping for and saw his private reserve. He is a good conversationalist and provided us with both history and nature information.
D2137SSheatherw,
Feb 13, 2020
- Review from Tripadvisor
I travel all Over the world looking at birds, and this was one day I will always remember. Not only was Tom lovely to be with, of course we had to invite him to our home in Texas, but he was one of the best guides we have ever had. He knew the botany and well as birds and he is also a great educator. Well worth every bit of time we spent with him and his amazing knowledge of nature. We were Lucky to find him!
enviroman1947,
Dec 11, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
Spent an awesome day birding with Tom. 51 species (mostly new to me) in six hours of birding. Tom really knows New Zealand, it’s birds and their habitats. He is a top notch birder with wide experience in conservation projects which has greatly expanded his knowledge of the region. Tom also offers multi-day trips which will produce many more species and habitats. You will really enjoy your time with him, let him show you “his” New Zealand.
904agnesc,
Jan 12, 2018
- Review from Tripadvisor
Tom really knows his birds, where to find them and how to spot them. The Maugataurari Reserve was the highlight of my day (sorry Tom for the Wrybills and the White-fronted terns with their cute babies!) : a complete hilltop is double-fenced to keep introduced predators out. Within the beautiful and old forest it's birds galore ! The first thing you notice when you arrive there is the orchestra of birdsong ! I saw my very first Kaka there at such close range that I can count their eyelashes in my photos ! Thanks for a great day, Tom !
Operated by Foris Eco Tours