Fodor's Expert Review Pūkaha Mount Bruce

Head 30 km (19 miles) north of Masterton for a fine introduction to the country's wildlife. An easy trail through the bush (one hour, round-trip) takes you past aviaries containing rare, endangered, or vulnerable birds, including the takahē, a flightless species thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered in 1948. The real highlight, though, is the nocturnal habitat containing foraging kiwis, endearing little bundles of energy that are the national symbol. Here you can also view the only white kiwi in captivity; she glows in the dark, so you won't have to wait for your eyes to adjust to the gloom to see her. In addition to animal feedings and talks, Pūkaha offers a variety of tours and workshops that can be booked online.