From kiwis to spring wildflowers, temperate rainforests to alpine meadows, New Zealand possesses a rich natural heritage. Some of the most spectacular scenery in the world is preserved in New Zealand’s national parks, many of which we visit on this expedition. Nearly 93% of the alpine flora of New Zealand is endemic and many plants have no close relatives anywhere else in the world. The geologic forces are as dynamic as anywhere on earth, and can be seen in the plunging cliffs at Milford Sound, in the spectacular peaks and glaciers of the Southern Alps, and along the rugged shore.
One of the top naturalists in New Zealand, Lloyd Esler, leads this 15-day expedition, featuring fine cities, museums, botanic gardens, national parks, and natural areas on North and South Islands. Lloyd has explored and written about much of the natural world in his home country and is often called a “walking encyclopedia.â€Â  The program is sponsored by the New England Wildflower Society.
The trip takes you from Auckland in the north to the Southern Alps, to Milford Sound in the Fiordland World Heritage Park, to Mt. Cook National Park and beyond. Trip fee is $3995 plus air fare. Please call 508-877-7630 ext. 3303 for a brochure with full details and itinerary, or visit http://www.botanicalexpeditions.com/aus-nz_nz.htm
