New Zealand Birds Photography
New Zealand is home to some of the world's most remarkable bird species. Many of our native birds are found nowhere else on Earth, making Aotearoa a paradise for bird lovers, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. From the melodic song of the Tūī to the powerful flight of the Kererū, our native birds are an important part of New Zealand's natural heritage.
Through Glen McMillan Photography, I aim to capture the beauty, character and behaviour of New Zealand birds in their natural environment. As a wheelchair user and nature photographer, I often spend hours observing wildlife, waiting patiently for those special moments that reveal the unique personalities of our native species.
This collection showcases a growing library of New Zealand bird photography, featuring native forest birds, coastal birds, wetland birds and some of our most iconic species. Whether you are a bird enthusiast, educator, conservation supporter or simply appreciate nature photography, I hope these images inspire a deeper appreciation for New Zealand's wildlife.
The Magnificent Tūī
The Tūī is one of New Zealand's most recognisable native birds. Easily identified by the distinctive white feather tuft beneath its throat, the Tūī is famous for its beautiful song and remarkable ability to produce a wide range of sounds. Tūī are nectar feeders and are commonly seen visiting kōwhai, flax and other flowering native plants.
Photographing Tūī can be challenging because they are constantly moving and often defend their feeding territories from other birds. Their iridescent feathers create stunning colours that change depending on the light, making them one of my favourite birds to photograph.
The Gentle Kererū
The Kererū, New Zealand's native wood pigeon, is one of our largest forest birds. With its striking green, bronze and white plumage, the Kererū is an important seed disperser within native forests. Many native trees rely on Kererū to spread their seeds, helping maintain healthy forest ecosystems.
Kererū are often seen feeding on berries, fruit and native foliage. Despite their size, they can move gracefully through the forest canopy and are always a rewarding subject for wildlife photography.
The Friendly Pīwakawaka
The Pīwakawaka, also known as the New Zealand Fantail, is one of the country's most familiar birds. Recognised by its distinctive fan-shaped tail and energetic flight, the Pīwakawaka often follows people through bush tracks and parks while catching insects disturbed by movement.
Fantails are incredibly fast and rarely stay still for long, making them one of the most challenging birds to photograph. Their curiosity and playful behaviour make them a favourite among many New Zealanders.
Photography And Conservation
Photography can play an important role in raising awareness about conservation. Many New Zealand bird species face ongoing challenges from habitat loss and introduced predators. Community conservation projects, predator control programmes and habitat restoration efforts are helping native bird populations recover in many parts of the country.
Through sharing these images, I hope to encourage greater appreciation of New Zealand's unique wildlife and the importance of protecting it for future generations.
Explore My New Zealand Bird Collection
This page will continue to grow as new photographs are added. From Tūī and Kererū to Kingfishers, Bellbirds, Morepork, Kākā, Weka and many other species, my goal is to create a photographic record of New Zealand's extraordinary birdlife.
Please browse the collection, enjoy the photographs and discover the incredible birds that make New Zealand one of the world's most unique wildlife destinations.