This post highlights the incredible biodiversity and ancient flora waiting to be discovered when you come to West Coast Treetops’ zipline in NZ for wildlife spotting. Our zipline adventures offer a unique, bird’s-eye view of New Zealand’s prehistoric rainforest and its feathered inhabitants. Here’s what to expect:
- Iconic native birds
- Ancient rimu trees over 800 years old
- Rare orchids and ferns
- A prehistoric podocarp rainforest
Taking to the skies at West Coast Treetops is a front-row seat to one of the most vibrant ecosystems in the world. Wildlife spotting is front and centre at our NZ zipline, 47 metres above the forests of Mahinapua Scenic Reserve.
Native Birds of the West Coast Canopy
The West Coast is a sanctuary for some of New Zealand’s most iconic bird species. As you glide through the air, keep your ears open for their melodic calls and your eyes peeled for a flash of feathers. The dense canopy provides the perfect habitat for native birds West Coast visitors adore.
- Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): Look for these large, heavy birds with iridescent green and bronze feathers and distinctive white “vests”. They are often seen clumsily perched on rimu branches.
- Tūī: Known for their white throat tufts and complex, bell-like songs, tūī are frequent visitors to the flowering trees surrounding the zipline tower.
- Korimako (Bellbird): Often heard before they are seen, their song is a classic soundtrack to any eco-tour in NZ treetops.
- Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These energetic little birds often follow adventurers, flitting around to catch insects stirred up by movement.
Ancient Giants and Floral Wonders
The flora of the West Coast is just as spectacular as the fauna. An eco-tour at West Coast Treetops NZ lets you experience the podocarp forest in a unique way, where you’ll bear witness to a rainforest that’s remained largely unchanged for millions of years.
- Rimu Trees: These account for a large portion of the forest, with some specimens having stood for over 800 years.
- Native Orchids and Ferns: You might notice delicate epiphytes, which are plants that grow on other plants and cling to high branches of the Rimu and Kamahi trees.
Experience the Wild West Coast
Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or a family looking for adventure, wildlife spotting from the unique perspective of our NZ zipline sparks an unforgettable connection to nature. Viewing the forest from above, you gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of this ancient landscape.
Want to see these incredible species for yourself? Book your next adventure and prepare to be amazed by the native birds the West Coast has to offer on our eco-tours.
FAQs
Q: Which birds might I see?
A: You may spot Kererū, Tūī, Korimako (bellbirds), and friendly Pīwakawaka (fantails) flitting through the canopy.
Q: How old are the Rimu trees in the Mahinapua Scenic Reserve?
A: Many of the towering rimu trees in this ancient forest have stood for over 800 years.
Q: What are epiphytes and are they found on the West Coast?
A: Epiphytes are plants like native orchids and ferns that grow on high branches of larger trees in Hokitika.
