Over 450 photographs detailing the habitats and many birds and animals unique to New Zealand. The images are supported by a personal account of the main habitats and a chapter on conservation efforts.

Photographer Tui De Roy is known internationally for her wildlife work, and unlike many natural history books, Tui captures the character of her subjects over many photographs - from a saddleback feasting off nectar-laden pohutukawa flowers, to a New Zealand falcon caring for its chicks, to a kakapo making its way through the bush. Her exceptional eye for detail and her deep affinity for her subjects bring out their characters in a unique way and will provide New Zealanders and visitors to the country alike with a new view of this very special land.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements 11; Preface 13; Introduction: Preserving the kiwi's footsteps 14; Chapter 1 The sunny forest margins: Spring blooms and honey eaters 26; Chapter 2 The hidden realm of the kiwi: Life in the mossy understorey 46; Chapter 3 Wings across Gondwana forests: untamed South Island 66; Chapter 4 Volcanoes and wattlebirds: Dynamic North Island 84; Chapter 5 Frosty world of the mountain parrot: The Southern Alps 104; Chapter 6 Wonders of the waterways: Lakes, rivers, swamps and estuaries 122; Chapter 7 Of wind and wave: The wild coast 140; Glossary 158; Index 159

Accolades

Shortlisted for Montana New Zealand Book Awards: Environment Category 2007.