Tiritiri Matangi is an open island sanctuary northeast of Auckland. After over a century of farming, it has been replanted with native vegetation and given over to providing a haven for wildlife. I’ve been to Tiri twice before, but not in recent years. On my last trip I’d managed some passable photos, but the goal of this trip was to get some good ones – especially of the Stitchbirds. Armed with the D700 and the 70-200mm f2.8 with a 1.4x teleconverter and a lot more technique than last time, I was ready for some great bird photography opportunities.
The weather was gorgeous, summery and hot, which wasn’t all that great in terms of light. The contrast between sun and shade was harsh, which made dappled shade an exposure nightmare. We kept to photographing birds in full shade if possible to preserve detail in their plumage. The dense bush on the island makes getting clear shots difficult, but also provides lovely backgrounds.
The birds were out in full-force – we compiled a list of over 20 different species in a few hours. Favourite sightings were 4 separate encounters with elusive Kokako – which unfortunately didn’t result in any photographs, a very friendly Fantail, Fernbirds and Saddlebacks having a bath, and the handfuls upon handfuls of Bellbirds and Stitchbirds at the nectar feeder. The island is alive with song during the day, and I can only imagine the intensity of the dawn chorus! I’d love to stay there overnight and wake up with the birds – a few hours in the middle of the day is fantastic, but spending the night would be a dream. Early morning and evening light would be lovely.
Despite difficulties with the light, I’m very pleased with the photographs I took and can’t wait for my next visit – hopefully sooner than the last! Goals for next time are getting photographs of the Kokako, Whitehead, and Rifleman (fingers crossed, I’ve never even seen one!). I’d really recommend anyone interested in birds or bird photography to visit the island – it’s a worthwhile trip at any time of year. Tickets for the ferry are limited, and it takes on passengers at Auckland City and Gulf Harbour, which I prefer as the ride is much shorter and the ticket price cheaper! Here’s how to get there.
Anton Weisskopf
19 Oct 2014Great job, Edin. Some photos to be proud of there.
Edin
20 Oct 2014Thanks! It was a great day.
Kurien Yohannan
20 Oct 2014Some pretty cool images here, Edin. Well done…
Edin
20 Oct 2014Thank you!
Pingback: Tiritiri Matangi