Here are some comments from people and their experiences watching brids in New Zealand.  Comments may come from individuals using a tourism operator for bird watching or from someone who has found a unique and inspiring location they wish to share with others.

• "A totally unforgettable experience- thanks Ian and Paul for a wonderful evening in the forest and amazing kiwi encounter. We were lucky enough to be there on a night when there was special activity going on as Ian and Paul where attempting to retrieve a 4-day-old chick from the bush and take it to a safe haven. This was eventually achieved and although we didn't see the actual 'rescue' take place we felt like we were a part of it in some small way. It's so common these days for tour operators to use words like 'eco-friendly' and 'low-impact' with little regard for what they really mean but these guys are the real deal- genuinely passionate about what they're doing and 100% committed to their project. Customer care and satisfaction is obviously vital BUT the feeling is definitely that the birds and the environment come first and that we humans are privileged to be there- this is absolutely as it should be and the emphasis and balance of the tours is pretty much perfect. Totally recommended without hesitation!"

  Tim Hawley, New Zealand - 5/12/2009
  

• "This tour was the most amazing experience of our last holiday trip. It started with a glimpse of a kiwi leaving its nest after getting up at sunset. Afterwards it was more difficult to find a kiwi, the weather was turning cold and wet but Ian never gave up. He motivated us to listen to all noises of the night and to see in the dark. Finally we saw a female kiwi coming out of the bush and we saw (and heard) her calling and after a little while the male appeared. Unique and fantastic. We have to return to Okarito sometimes and do this tour again."

  Rene Hartman, Germany - 15/11/2009
  

• "Yesterday we visited the nesting sanctuary and today the Lagoon Swade manouvered the boat to give us great photo opportunities and I managed 3 great shots of the beautiful white Heron feeding.We also saw Spoonbills, Tuis, Wood Pigeon and Godwits. I thoroughly recommend this tour for the scenery and birdlife."

  Lynn Clayton, New Zealand - 6/10/2009
  

• "We recently did a trip around the South Island and one of the highlights was the kayak trip out onto Okarito lagoon. It was just the two of us in a double kayak so was incredibly peaceful; clear blue skies and amazing views of the Southern Alps added to the whole experience. We got lovely views (and fab photos) of a range of birds including native wood pigeon, scaup, shags and of course, the beautiful white heron! It's a fantastic way to experience and enjoy wildlife as you feel so close to them! With such enthusiastic, friendly and informative staff, we would recommed this to anyone-NZ resident and visitor alike. Katie and Shaun"

  Katie Wise, New Zealand - 29/09/2009
  

• "Ifound this tour surfing this website...sooo glad I found it! One of the highlights of our Sth Island holiday, I'd highly recommend it to anyone wanting to see a Kiwi. Way outshines seeing one in a nocturnal house in a bird park. Ian's enthusiasm is infectious and he had the five of us on the tour working as a team. Even though the weather wasn't great I can safely say a great time was had by all. My partner Jim and I will never forget Jim the Kiwi at the end of the tour, back near the car park of all places! Thanks Ian."

  Kristen Smith, Australia - 14/09/2009
  

• "Kia ora Shirley. A big, Thank You for a wonderful trip to the Kotuku Sanctuary. The tape explaining what we were going to experience was much appreciated. The bird calls on the way back were excellent too. The jet boat driver, cheers for a great experience, the scenery and flying with the ducks in flight. Awesome. From Maire on behalf of the "National association of resource teachers and advisers of Maori" Te Waipounamu"

  Maire Gabolinscy, New Zealand - 2/07/2009
  

• "I would like to say to you all Bern and Dion, how privileged we feel to have the pleasure to see the White Herons, a trip of a lifetime and to thank you very much indeed for your kindness. (I never dreamed I would be able to go in a jetboat) our grandchildren think it is cool! With our sincere thanks and congratulations on your amazing White Heron Tours."

  Ray and Patricia Enser - 2/07/2009
  

• "Despite some very unpromising weather during the day of our kiwi trip, we decided to press ahead, although Ian made us aware that our chances of seeing any kiwis would be affected. We were certainly glad we did, as within a couple of hours we had seen no fewer than 4 kiwis (2 pairs) and had absolutely superb views of all of them. WE even saw one pair mating. I can highly recommend this trip - Ian was avery knowledgeable and personable guide, and works very hard to ensure you get a great view of the birds while minimizing any disturbance."

  Richard Rae, United Kingdom - 27/05/2009
  

• "This was unforgettable. It felt very special. Ian and Paul are incredibly knowledgeable and facilitate a fantastic and unique experience. It was a privelege to take part in. Thankyou very much to both of you - from Nicky, Bryony and Darren."

  Nicola Illsley - 12/04/2009
  

• "Honestly the best thing weve done whilst in New Zealand! We loved it so much we came back again and saw another kiwi! Ian and Paul are great, they make it a real exciting experiance, we will never forget the time a kiwi ran into Pauls leg! Thanks for 2 great nights, we hope to be back one day! Harriet and Louisa"

  Harriet Jarvis, United Kingdom - 22/03/2009