New Zealand : New Zealand's 'Small Five'

If you've been inspired by the BBC programme 'Last Chance to See' discover New Zealand's native wildlife for yourself on this fantastic 18-day self drive itinerary.

This 18-day itinerary focuses on the rich and diverse natural heritage of New Zealand, home to a number of species of flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. With birdlife and marine mammals taking centre stage, the detailed trip notes will lead you through pristine rainforests, alpine valleys and to secluded beaches and bizarre geological features.

On Tiritiri Matangi Island near Auckland you will find tuataras, reintroduced to the Island in recent years. Often referred to as the living fossil, the tuatara is the sole survivor of an ancient order of reptiles called Rhynchocephalia.

Stewart Island is the only place in New Zealand where the timid nocturnal little brown kiwi can be reliably seen in the wild. Stewart Island Brown Kiwi has been recognised as a separate species, adapted to life in the south where during summer, days are very long and nights short.  On occasion these kiwi can be seen foraging during daylight hours.

Yellow-eyed penguins (megadyptes antipodes) are found only in New Zealand waters and are one of the world's rarest penguins. They can be seen in an area rich in wildlife on the Otago Peninsula.  Numbers on the mainland are declining and their habitat is under threat and their survival is very much reliant on human understanding and goodwill.

Hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori) can be easily recognised by the small rounded dorsal fin. Hectors dolphins are known only from New Zealand. It is most abundant between Cook Strait and Foveaux Strait, lives inshore and prefers muddy or discoloured water seaward of estuaries.

The kea is the world's only Alpine parrot. They are best seen in Arthurs Pass National Park, Mount Cook (either in the Tasman or Hooker Valleys) and on the Milford Sound Road at Homer Tunnel. Renowned for their mischievous tendencies they are often responsible for demolishing vinyl ski tow seats and windscreen wipers and for raiding remote huts in search of food.