Spot the wild isle’s native critters

Some unique animals call this country home. On a wildlife-themed self-drive of the South Island, you can tick off plenty. Start with hiking and birding around Abel Tasman National Park before searching for whales off Kaikoura. Akaroa is penguin paradise (yellow-eyed, blue and loads of littles can be seen) while walks on the offbeat Otago Peninsula might reveal albatross and New Zealand sea lion. The Catlins coast is renowned for rare mohua birds; from here, you can sail to Stewart Island for the chance of seeing kiwi in the wild.

A 23-day Kiwis & Whales Galore self-drive with Wildlife Worldwide (01962 302086; wildlifeworldwide.com) costs from £6,395pp including flights