Tawharanui Kiwi Night Walk with Kiwiness Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to walk 2.5 km on uneven terrain at night.
Overview
Journey into the night with Kiwiness Tours on Tawharanui Peninsula, seeking the elusive Kiwi in a pristine New Zealand bird sanctuary. This small-group walk offers up-close encounters with native wildlife framed by stunning coastal forest.
Tawharanui Evening Kiwi Tour
3 Hours • Great for friends, families & couples!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Exploring the Tawharanui Bird Sanctuary, home to the New Zealand Kiwi! This thriving sanctuary is located on a remote peninsula in the Hauraki Gulf and is the perfect habitat for Kiwi and other native NZ birds such as the Kereru, Tui, Native Owl, Morpork and more!*
Duration
Tour Duration: 3 Hours Start and finish times vary depending on the season. (See live booking form for exact times)
Pick up/Drop off: Matakana I-Site. Just outside the Cinema Complex in Matakana Village.
About
Pick up/Drop off: Matakana I-Site. Just outside the Cinema Complex in Matakana Village. (1hr North of Auckland). This is a small group tour into an amazing bird sanctuary that just so happens to have one of Auckland’s favourite surf beach’s, campgrounds and walking trails! Join your local guide Ness as she shows you her ‘back yard’. This evening tour is a chance to hear and maybe even see the elusive nocturnal bird of New Zealand…. The Northern Brown Kiwi, not to mention our native owl the Morepork!
The trails are well maintained, and relatively flat with just a few undulations. Total distance walked will vary, but averages about 2.5 km for the tour.
What we provide Hot chocolate & home made cookies while learning about the area and awaiting dark for our nocturnal friends!
With native forest, lush pastures and wetlands, gorgeous coastal views and sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why the Kiwi call Tawharanui home.Beginning at dusk, you’ll set off with your local guide in search of Kiwi by red torchlight. Keep an ear out for the shrill call of the Kiwi, it is very distinctive and almost mesmerizing. You will learn how to identify the difference between the male and female calls as well as other fascinating facts about these wonderful birds throughout the tour. If you are lucky you may even get the chance to see these treasured nocturnal birds!
The small group numbers of the tour ensure you get the most out of your experience, making for a memorable and informative evening exploring the sanctuary and habitat of the New Zealand Kiwi!
What to Bring
Your lovely selves and a quiet night time voice as to not scare these beautiful birds away.
Shoes (trainers) or if have none, then enclosed sandals are fine.
Rain Jacket and a warm layer (just in case).
Adventure Tips
Walk Quietly at Night
Maintain a low voice and avoid sudden movements to increase chances of Kiwi sightings and not disturb other wildlife.
Wear Enclosed Shoes
Trainers or sturdy sandals protect your feet on uneven sections of the trail.
Dress in Warm Layers
Evenings can be chilly—bring a rain jacket and extra layers to stay comfortable during the tour.
Watch Your Step in Low Light
Use your guide’s red light and watch for tree roots or uneven ground to prevent slips and falls.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Northern Brown Kiwi
- Morepork (native owl)
History
Tawharanui Peninsula was protected as a regional park in 1984 and has been a critical site for kiwi conservation since.
Conservation
The sanctuary maintains predator-free zones to protect native birds, relying on responsible visitor behavior to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layer
Keeps you comfortable during cool evening temps on the trail.
fall specific
Rain Jacket
Protects against sudden showers common in spring evenings.
spring specific
Closed-Toe Shoes
Provides foot protection over uneven terrain after dark.
Insect Repellent
Helpful for keeping biting insects at bay during summer tours.
summer specific