What to see

1 WEKA

A loud 'coo-eet' call at dawn or dusk might be the first indication that a weka is nearing your campsite – where this inquisitive, flightless bird may decide to check out your picnic. Once common in the park, weka disappeared decades ago but were reintroduced in 2006.

2 NEW ZEALAND FUR SEAL

Colonies of this lithe marine mammal breed on islands in the park, notably Tonga Island – now a protected marine reserve, where landing is by permit only – paddle your kayak around the island to see seals swimming or hauling out on rocky shore.

3 OTHER SPECIES

Find a quiet beach as night falls and you may see little (or blue) penguins (korora). You’ll almost certainly spot South Island pied and variable oystercatchers probing the wet sand. In the forests, listen for the otherworldly whistles of tui.