New Zealand isn’t the most remote, isolated place on Earth, but it is certainly one of the prettiest remote, isolated places on Earth.

It’s home to cheeky penguins, parrots that frolic in the snow, and strange, prehistoric-looking reptiles.

Across New Zealand life battles the natural forces – which shaped its past and continue to drive life there today. One of the most geologically active countries on earth; it’s a beautiful but dangerous place to live, rocked by earthquakes, volcanic activity and a wild and wet climate.

A new three-part part series from the BBC’s Natural History Unit, narrated by actor Sam Neill, showcases the island chain’s rich and intriguing wildlife that has resulted from 80 million years of isolation.

Nick Easton/BBC

Tom Walker/BBC

Mark Macewen/BBC

Christina Karliczek/BBC

Mark MacEwen/BBC

Tom Walker/BBC

Christina Karliczek/BBC

BBC

Nick Easton/BBC

Claire Thompson/BBC

Alex Hasskerl/BBC

Claire Thompson/BBC

James Reardon/BBC

Tom Walker/ BBC

source:bbc