Ian
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South Island ▷ West Coast ▷ Karamea ▷
Karamea Domain Camping Ground
5.0/5
I stay here every year while golfing.
Very clean, great hosts and always great weather.
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South Island ▷ Coastal Otago ▷ Dunedin ▷
Royal Albatross Centre
4.5/5
The guide was very passionate about the albatross, we had a very good briefing prior to the walk to the colony.
Inside the shelter, we got to see a few chicks, then, one of the adults returned.
It was a very special tour.
I would have liked the guide to have more robust knowledge of other native birds, She struggled to name some of the other native birds displayed on posters in the hide.
We took our 2 and a half yr old, but was not told any useful information about weather the trip was suitable for someone so young.
Overall, the albatross sells the trip.
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South Island ▷ Canterbury ▷ Christchurch ▷
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
5.0/5
The highlight for me was the kiwi house.
I work as a guide myself looking for kiwi, however, I really loved the way the kiwi in the kiwi house were oblivious to us. I heard a pair snuffling, while over my shoulder another pair were doing the same thing.
It was only a fleeting visit ( while waiting for a domestic flight ), however, I know I will be back with my daughter - who will absolutely love this place.
Willowbank also does a great job in incubating Rowi eggs, then, nurturing the young prior to release onto Motuara Island.
Great Job
Overall the animals are very well looked after and it deserved more of my time - sorry.