Here's how you can protect New Zealand by caring for nature and wildlife

Many of the unique plant and animal species here in New Zealand are endangered. Help to protect our natural world with these simple actions while travelling around our beautiful country.

Give wildlife space

When you see seals and sea lions, keep a distance of at least 20 metres. That’s around the length of two buses. If you get too close, seals and sea lions can panic and start a stampede, which is dangerous for both you and them. They can also become aggressive if you come between them and their babies or the sea.

Respect their resting time and keep a good distance between you.

You should also give plenty of space to nesting birds. Some of our endangered species, such as the dotterel or black gull, can nest directly on the beach so it’s important to steer clear to avoid damaging their nests, eggs and chicks. If you have a dog, make sure you keep it well away as well.

Most nesting sites will be marked with rope. However, in more remote, unmarked areas, you may need to use your common sense and stay away when you notice birds nesting.

Don't feed the birds

New Zealand's native birds aren’t adapted to human food, so resist the temptation to feed them. It can make them sick, and in some cases, even kill them. For example, if kākā eat nuts and seeds, they may develop metabolic bone disease.

The cheeky kea are good at begging for food and even stealing it from bags, but it can make them more likely to put themselves in danger. The Department of Conservation reports that in areas where kea are fed regularly, they are more at risk from cars and pest control. 

Keep your shoes clean

Kauri dieback disease(opens in new window) is a massive threat to New Zealand's stunning native kauri trees. Help to prevent the spread of this disease by cleaning your footwear with the disinfectant and scrubbing brushes provided at the start of many Department of Conservation walking tracks.

You should also stick to the trails – they are there for a reason. Veering off the track can spread the disease faster.

Help pest-free sanctuaries stay pest-free

When visiting predator-free islands, or islands that are becoming pest-free, make sure you check your gear before you leave the mainland.

Search your gear for pests such as rodents and insects. Even ants can be a problem if spread to a sanctuary. Clean your footwear and equipment to prevent spreading soil and seeds. Zip up your bags before leaving home so no pests can hitchhike a ride. It's the small things that will help prevent the spread and protect our sanctuaries. 

Support sustainable wildlife operators

Many businesses around New Zealand allow you to encounter our wildlife close up.

As well as getting to have unforgettable wildlife experiences, by choosing sustainable tourism operators you are helping to support conservation efforts. The following tour operators support New Zealand’s nature and wildlife by donating a portion of their visitor fees to environmental protection and conservation projects.

Trees that count

Trees that count

Give a gift that grows through Trees that Count(opens in new window)A native tree is a thoughtful, waste-free gift: for Christmas, a birthday, or just to say you care.

100% Pure NZ

Tiaki promise

The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now, and for future generations. By following the Tiaki Promise, you are making a commitment to act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home.

Learn more about responsible travel in New Zealand