New Zealand Nature Explorer

New Zealand’s wildlife has suffered more extinctions from introduced predators than any other country, but innovative conservation projects are offering hope. Expedition Leader Jacob Emerson takes us inside the country’s rewilding movement, from predator-free islands like Tiritiri Matangi to fenced sanctuaries such as Zealandia. Discover how these efforts are reviving endemic species like the tuatara and kaka, and learn why the kea—New Zealand’s clever alpine parrot—poses unique conservation challenges.

New Zealand’s isolation gave rise to some of the planet’s most unusual birds, many of them found nowhere else on Earth. Expedition Leader Jacob Emerson explores the extraordinary evolutionary history and conservation challenges of New Zealand’s rarest birds. Meet flightless species like the kiwi, kakapo and takahe—some of which number fewer than 500 individuals today—and discover the scientific and community-driven efforts to save them from extinction. During the presentation, you’ll also find out about the birds we encounter on our New Zealand Nature Explorer adventure.

New Zealand's South Island is a land of topographic extremes, from seaside rainforests and sapphire lakes to active glaciers, glowworm-filled caves and frigid fjords. Expedition Leader Sam Kuperus walks us through Nat Hab’s immersive itinerary, sharing details about our accommodations (including two luxury ecolodges and a historic castle), essentials to pack and more. Learn about the activities included on the trip, such as hiking, kayaking, night walks, and encounters with Maori culture, as well as the wildlife we’ll be searching for, from flightless brown kiwis to fur seals and endangered penguins.