Elisabeth Easther goes to the birds.
Deep in the heart of the Waikato, 37km from Cambridge, you'll find an environmental wonderland, a real conservation piece.
Maungatautari Ecological Island is a 3400ha predator-free bird sanctuary, ringed with 47km of pest-proof fence. Once you've checked through your bags for mice and other small rodents (you'll be surprised what can lurk at the bottom of back packs) visitors can make their way through the southern gates, then it's up to them how they explore this gated community.
Formerly a volcano, the mountain is home to towering ancient forest and offers sanctuary to many of our most-endangered species - from birds to bats, frogs, reptiles, tuatara and giant weta.
Recently judged by Global Restoration Network one of Australasia's Top 25 ecological restoration projects, the sanctuary is made up of a number of bush trails and your entry fee ($7-$16) helps to maintain the visitor centre, amazing viewing tower, network of tracks, facilities and signage, as well as supporting the crucial conservation work of the trust.
