James
Chris Gaskin's day trip pelagics in the Hauraki Gulf are a must. See
http://www.kiwi-wildlife.co.nz/chris_gaskin.php
I have been out with him twice and seen NZ Storm-Petrel on both occasions
plus many other birds. Chris has played a major role in the rediscovery of
the NZ Storm-Petrel, including the recent discovery of its previously
unknown nesting site. The boat passes close to the some of the Hauraki Gulf
islands, so you may also get a distant glimpse of some birds rare on the
mainland (Kaka, Red-capped Parrot, etc).
Re other sites: try at all costs to get to Kapiti Island (bookings
required - try for an overnight stay), Tiritiri Matangi Island, Ulva Island
[Stewart Island], and Wingspan raptor park near Rotorua. I have just
returned from the North Island, finally seeing NZ Falcon for the first time
from the peak of Maungatautari Scenic Reserve, plus another amazing view of
it from a friend's verandah in suburban Tauranga.
Cheers
Neville Pamment
<HR>
<BR> Birding-Aus mailing list
<BR>
<BR> To change settings or unsubscribe visit:
<BR> http://birding-aus.org/mailman/listinfo/birding-aus_birding-aus.org
</HR>
|