A mere mentioning of this country nestled in a corner of the south of the globe recalls images of kiwis and wallabies to one’s mind and it is no surprise that blocks of land are generously dedicated for the well being of the animal species that reside in the country.
Approximately 30 kms off the coast of Auckland in New Zealand, lays the Tiritiri Matangi Island, which is a Maori name that translates simply to ‘Tossed by the Wind’. Given the tiny square area of the island, it must indeed have looked like it had been tossed into the ocean, almost inadvertently, but today it serves as a conservation site for many species of birds.
The island is administered by the Department of Conservation and since 1984 many efforts have been taken to promote afforestation within the island. Many volunteers were recruited at the time to plant saplings of native shrubs and trees; about two decades later the efforts started to bear fruit and today it is a heavily patronized location by day trippers. Different local species of birds such as the spotted kiwi, kokako, stitchbird and takahe were introduced at regular intervals and they continue to dwell and breed. Once the endemic species became comfortable and their existence was unchallenged, several foreign birds, including the brown quail from neighbouring Australia were also placed in the forest.
It is possible to take a ferry ride from the Gulf Harbour or the Auckland Ferry Terminal to access Tiritiri Matangi Island and witness the lush greenery and the well groomed feathery creatures. The welcoming toots and chirps of the birds can be heard even as you descend from the boat. Guides ensure that travellers get more than just a sneak peak of the animals and that they also abstain from harming the wildlife in any manner.
During a season where Auckland hotel specials can be found, head towards the region and stay at a luxurious Auckland city hotel, which will place you within comfortable reach of the best holiday locations in New Zealand. Copthorne Hotel Auckland City has been a frontrunner in the hospitality industry in the area, thus should not be overlooked when searching for hotel deals.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
