Disclaimer: Our online business directory lists over 2,200 local businesses however be aware it is an almost impossible task for this to always be completely up-to-date so please use as a guide only - if you find any discrepancies please let us know on hibiscuscoast@linku2.co.nz - thank you!
When it comes to property it can be daunting. It doesn't matter whether you are looking at buying or selling a property, up-sizing or down-sizing, investing for your future, doing a few touch ups round the house or garden, considering a whole new build or just need a little maintenance or tender loving care it's all going to cost money and you want to get it right!
That's where you are in luck on the Coast as, you may not believe it, but construction is our biggest industry, and we have all the local experts you need to help and, if you are buying or selling, being the second highest most populated area (and continuing to grow rapidly) in Auckland, there's no lack of properties available and agents to help you find what you want!
First and foremost you can find all types of local businesses in the Property Section of our Linku2 Hibiscus Coast business directory, whether you're looking for a bricklayer, hedge trimmer, lighting store, mortgage broker, security service or more ...
It doesn't matter whether you are a first home buyer, a growing family, want to downsize for retirement or sell to free up funds, you will need to ensure you seek the services of a few experienced people along the way.
When looking for a real estate company or agent there are a few pointers you can follow including their experience in the area you are selling in or hoping to buy in. For a list of things to look for when picking an agent check our "How to Find a Good Real Estate Agent" article and check out local options in our directory Real Estate category (As noted above this is by no means a comprehensive or completely up-to-date list but a guide - it's an ever changing industry and many agents aren't listed)!!
As well as help from an agent you may also need to consider finance. Remember don't just call your local bank and expect to get the best deal. The best option is to contact a mortgage broker who can help and probably save you a lot of money (and perhaps heartache) in the process.
First Rate Mortgages based in Orewa can help you with not just home loans and finance but can also focus on arranging business finance, residential or commercial property investment, construction finance, refinancing, and debt consolidation. Alongside First Rate, their sister company NonBk Ltd "Solving Problems with Solutions" can be a great option to call upon if you are self-employed, looking for second mortgages or maybe have a bit of a financial past that may rear it's head if you're not careful! Check out what they can do for you or contact them on 09-426-8927 or info@firstratemortgages.co.nz or solutions@nonbank.co.nz depending on the service you need.
Another option is iLender based in Whangaparaoa, Jeff is a "Financial Paramedic" and as he advises, "When looking for home finance seek out an experienced Mortgage Adviser who can look at all of the bank and non bank options so you can go looking for a new home with confidence. Local business iLender has helped 100's of people over the years (read their reviews) and Jeff Royle is happy to discuss any situation either over the phone or pop into the office in Karepiro Drive. A lot of people get knocked back by their bank and think that's the end of the line. It is not! Jeff and his team cover all lending options ensuring that you get the best possible advice. 09-428-5333 orĀ help@ilender.co.nz"
Check out a comprehensive local list of mortgage brokers and financial services.
Again if you are looking at buying new off a house and land package, organising your own build, want to do some upgrades to your home or garden or just need to get some maintenance done you don't need to look far to find a local expert.
If you want to ramp up the security at your place then you need to talk to Jason at King Locksmiths who can ensure your place and your valuables are safe and secure and advise on the best systems and management for your pace of mind, or, if it's an alarm system or maintenance you're after give Trevor a call at TDS Security.
If it's garden maintenance you're after then call in Jake from Allout Hedge and Tree Maintenance. He can help with anything from hedge trimming, tree pruning or removal, land clearing, green waste removal and is happy to advise on what you should do. If however you are into DIY and need tools and time to get things done or just need garden tool maintenance then the person to call is Hal at Peninsula Mowers and Heating Ltd. That garden really can be a haven to enjoy once you give it that makeover!
And if all you feel is important to get done is a good house clean and, especially if you have a wish to be friendly to our environment then you can guarantee the best cleaning products are available right here on the Coast from Stephanie at Insinc Products.
There has been, and continues to be, so much development across the Hibiscus Coast so if you're looking for a local you can check out our directory categories for all services such as Builders and Developers, Property Maintenance, Bathroom and Kitchen Design Services, Plumbers, Storage, Carpet Retailers, Pool and Spa Services and everything in between in our Property Section.
Regardless of what it is you need or should be doing locally make sure you stay and use our great locals so we can all help each other to Go Local, Grow Local ...
Choosing a colour scheme for a room can seem daunting, but hereās a straightforward approach to create a balanced, cohesive look.
Step 1: Start with a Pattern: Most rooms already feature a pattern, unless this is a new build, whether itās in a rug, artwork, bedspread, or upholstery. Starting with a pattern makes it easier to build a color palette, rather than trying to find a pattern to fit an existing scheme. The colours in your pattern will guide the roomās overall palette. If you are starting with a clean slate then decide if you want to introduce any pattern forms.
Step 2: Pick Three Colours: From your pattern or palette, choose three key colours: one light, one medium, and one dark. These will form the basis of your colour scheme.
Step 3: Use the Light Colour for the Background: Apply the lightest shade to the walls and floor. If the colour feels too intense, consider toning it down with white or gray. For a grounded look, make the floor slightly darker than the walls and ceiling.
Step 4: Use the Medium Colour on Larger Items: The medium tone should be used on larger pieces, such as window treatments and furniture. Ideally, these items should complement the wall and floor colour to maintain a harmonious look.
Step 5: Accent with the Darker Colour: Add the darkest colour through accessories and smaller furniture. These accents bring depth and interest to the room. Balance the placement of these accents to ensure the room feels cohesive, with the eye naturally drawn to the darker, bolder elements.
Our environment has a subtle yet profound effect on our moods and well-being, often without us being fully aware of it. A thoughtfully designed home remodel can capture a specific atmosphere, like bottling a fine wine, letting you enjoy that mood every day. Tuscan design embodies the craftsmanship, history, and spirit of Renaissance Italy, infusing your home with the charm of Florence, Siena, Pisa, and the Tuscan countryside.
That said, Tuscan style is not for every homeāitās bold and sensory. The colours are rich and warm, and materials like stone and specialty tiles can be expensive. However, if youāre drawn to this aesthetic, it can be achieved, sometimes more affordably than you might expect.
A great entry point into Tuscan design is through its distinctive colour palette. Many Tuscan-inspired remodels start with paint. Burnt sienna, a warm, earthy shade reminiscent of a sunset, is a hallmark of Tuscan style. The palette reflects the natural landscape of Tuscany, with shades of deep blue-green from the Tyrrhenian Sea, vibrant blue skies, and the golden hues of sunflowers.
The living room is an ideal space to experiment with these bold colours since itās a neutral area where strong hues wonāt affect sleep or meal times. If painting the kitchen, remember to harmonize the colours with the roomās dominant tones.
Tuscan-style flooring typically includes terracotta tiles, travertine, tumbled stone, and wood planks. Handcrafted terracotta tiles, fired to a hard, durable finish, have a timeworn surface that complements antique-style wall finishes. The iconic burnt sienna colour comes from Siena, a Tuscan city where the clay is mined and fired to achieve its reddish-brown hue.
Tumbled stone or travertine tiles are another option, with their textured surfaces and rounded edges evoking the look of floors that have seen centuries of wear. Distressed wood planks, typically six inches wide, add an antique feel with pre-aged impressions, enhancing the rustic charm.
If a full Tuscan remodel feels too much, consider starting with the kitchen. Tuscany is closely associated with hearty, flavourful cuisineāporchetta, pasta, olive oil, and moreāso itās a natural fit for this style.
Tuscan kitchens often feature solid wood cabinetry with dark stains and intricate detailing. Stone veneer is frequently used to frame the oven or stove with a dramatic arched surround. For a budget-friendly touch, consider a premium Italian tile backsplash, focusing on a small area like behind the stove or adding accent tiles to bring in a touch of Tuscan flair.
Stonework, even when replicated with manufactured stone veneer, is central to Tuscan design. This cost-effective alternative mimics real quarried stone, offering the timeless look of Old World craftsmanship without the expense or complexity of traditional stone installation.
When purchasing an existing house, there are several key things you should check. Hereās a summary:
Ask the agent and seller about any known issues with the house. They have a duty of care to research and disclose any matters that could be of concern.
Inspect the house thoroughly, paying special attention to:
You should also pay attention and look for any signs of potential leaking, eg:
You should also:
Do not sign the contract until you are sure it meets your needs and all concerns have been addressed.
In a move aimed at providing tax relief for individuals and families, New Zealand has unveiled significant updates to its tax brackets 2024 as part of theĀ Government Budget, announced on 30th May. These changes take effect from 31 July 2024. These changes include changes to:
For further details on these changes please check out this comprehensive blog post brought to you by ABA Chartered Accountants. Simple Accounting, Simple Life!
For many, the idea of starting a fitness routine, especially when you're out of shape, can be intimidating. You might have a goal in mind, but where do you begin? How long should you walk or run? How fast? How often? Here are some tips and tools to help you kick-start your new fitness journey.
Itās natural to compare yourself to others who might be faster or more experienced, but donāt let that discourage you. Embrace your current fitness level and focus on making small, consistent improvements. Simply starting and doing more than you did before is a significant accomplishment in itself.
Wearing the right shoes is crucial when walking or running. Your shoes provide the foundation for your exercise, so itās important to choose a pair that fits well and offers good support, especially around your ankles. If possible, seek advice from a specialty running shop, but at the very least, ensure your shoes are comfortable and supportive.
One common mistake is trying to increase both speed and distance simultaneously. Instead, set a clear goal for each workout: will you focus on going farther today or faster? Concentrate on one aspect at a time to avoid burnout and injury.
Exercising with a friend can make the experience more enjoyable and less intimidating. Whether youāre walking or jogging, having someone to talk to can make the time pass quickly and turn your workout into a social activity.
Donāt hesitate to seek guidance. Training plans are designed to help you progress safely from your current level to where you want to be. There are many tools and apps available that can guide you through the process step by step.
Itās normal to have days when you donāt feel like exercising. Try not to let these days derail your routine. Reach out to a friend for motivation, join a group, or just push through, knowing youāll feel better once youāve made the effort.
If you really need to take a rest day, donāt be too hard on yourself. Use the break to recharge, and get back on track the next day. Sometimes, a day off can even boost your motivation for your next workout.
Starting a fitness routine is a journey, and every step forward is progress. Remember to be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process of becoming more active and healthy.
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To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need toĀ FIXĀ check outĀ our Local Business Quick Guide.
Networking is a crucial component of business success. It enables you to connect with people who can help you grow your business, gain insights into other industries, learn new ideas, and of course, discover potential customers. However, finding new clients shouldnāt be your sole focus when networking.
For shy individuals, networking can feel particularly daunting. The fear of rejection, lack of confidence, and feeling unworthy can make it seem overwhelming. But with the right approach, you can overcome these fears and recognize the immense value that networking can bring to your business and your personal development as a business professional.
Here are some tips to help you navigate networking with confidence:
Be Prepared: If youāre worried about freezing up or getting tongue-tied in social settings, prepare in advance. Think of a few ice-breaker questions you can ask people you meet to start conversations more easily.
Start with Familiarity: If approaching strangers feels intimidating, begin by seeking out people you already know. Familiar faces can make the environment feel less overwhelming.
Attend Events with a Friend or Colleague: Going to an event with someone youāre comfortable with can boost your confidence, especially if your companion is an extrovert. They can introduce you to people they know and encourage you to engage with others.
Donāt Continuously Apologize: Constantly apologizing can signal insecurity. Remember, you donāt need to apologize for seeking help or wanting to learn more about the person youāre speaking with.
Overcome Your Fear of Rejection: In networking, you may encounter people who are unable or unwilling to help. Donāt take it personally or dwell on it; itās just part of the process.
Remember That Networking Is Two-Way: You might feel you have nothing significant to offer in return for someoneās help, but you likely have more to give than you realize. And even if you donāt, not every interaction needs to be a transactionāsometimes just building a connection is valuable.
Arrive Early: Donāt make the mistake of arriving late. Itās much easier to establish a presence in a room before it gets crowded and people start forming small groups. Arriving early gives you a better chance to mingle and make connections.
Create and Refine Your Elevator Pitch: Prepare a concise 15-30 second pitch that explains who you are, what you do, and how others can benefit from connecting with you. Having this ready can make breaking the ice much easier, but make sure it doesnāt sound overly rehearsed. Keep it simple, clear, and authentic.
Most importantly, be yourself: Donāt try to be someone youāre not. If youāre naturally humble and shy, embrace itāauthenticity can be endearing. Itās okay to be a little awkward, just avoid over-apologizing for it.
By following these tips, you can navigate networking events with greater confidence and make the most of the opportunities they offer.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need toĀ FIXĀ check outĀ our Local Business Quick Guide.
Letās face it, car tyres arenāt something most people think to budget for in their day-to-day expenses, but they are essential and important. So, should you invest in premium brands, or are budget tyres sufficient?
When choosing car tyres, itās crucial to consider your driving needs before deciding on the type of tyre. Do you drive long distances on motorways? Or are you mostly a lower-speed, around-town driver? Thereās a wide range of tyres available to suit nearly every type of vehicle and driving style.
When we think of premium tyres, names like Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone often come to mind - brands that can deflate your bank account faster than your last blowout. Budget brands, on the other hand, are the most affordable options on the market and can be much easier on your wallet.
In New Zealand, all tyres sold are required to meet specific safety standards, which ensures a baseline level of quality and safety. Interestingly, many budget tyre brands are owned by the major players in tyre research, who are keen to capture a share of the budget market.
In reality, no one can definitively say that a budget tyre will fail or that a premium tyre will never fail. The performance and longevity of a tyre largely depend on your driving habits and how well you maintain them.
Buying a budget tyre doesnāt necessarily mean compromising on quality; in fact, many budget tyres are manufactured using the same techniques as their premium counterparts.
Some argue that budget tyres donāt last as long as premium ones, but thereās no fixed lifespan for tyresāit all depends on how you drive and care for them. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tyre pressure, which is usually listed on the driverās door pillar, can significantly extend tyre life and save you money. Underinflated tyres increase road friction, causing them to wear out faster and your car to use more fuel. Additionally, itās important to ensure all four tyres have the same tread pattern for optimal performance.
Itās also wise to consult with a tyre professional. They have the expertise to advise you on factors like wet and dry handling, tread noise, off-road traction, and more, helping you choose the best option for your driving needs.
In the end, budget tyres are not unsafe and can be both reliable and economical. As long as youāre not planning a high-speed tour around New Zealand, budget tyres can offer great value and make practical sense.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
When getting your home ready to attract potential buyers, there are several important steps you can take to maximize its appeal.
Start by emotionally detaching from the house. Shift your mindset from seeing it as your "home" to viewing it as a property thatās ready to be sold. If this is difficult, imagine yourself in the new home youāre hoping to buy, handing over the keys and moving on.
Depersonalise the space by removing personal items like family photos and mementos from visible surfaces. Creating clear and uncluttered spaces helps buyers envision their own belongings in the room, making it easier for them to imagine living there.
Donāt overlook the small details. Simple updates like replacing old kitchen cabinet knobs with modern ones can quickly refresh a space. The same applies to bathrooms - swapping out towel rails, toilet roll holders, and adding plush towels or decorative soaps can elevate the roomās style.
Invest some effort into deep cleaning. Ensure windows are spotless, cobwebs are removed, walls are wiped down, furniture is dusted, faucets are polished, and dirty grout is bleached. These tasks can make your home feel fresh and well-maintained, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom, which are key areas of interest for buyers.
Enhance the exterior by adding a few brightly colored potted plants near entrances, on decks, or along garden edges. These touches can create an inviting atmosphere and can be taken with you when you move. Additionally, tidy the garden, trim hedges, and mow the lawn to boost your homeās curb appeal. If you need help or advice with this give Jake a call at Allout Hedge and Tree Maintenance Ltd and check out their landscaping support they can give you with that first impression!
Make sure the entrance to your home is decluttered and welcoming. Since this is one of the first impressions buyers will have of the interior, you want it to feel open and inviting, not cramped or cluttered.
Evaluate the overall curb appeal of your home. Consider if the exterior needs a fresh coat of paint, or if the deck could use some staining. Even small updates, like replacing house numbers or adding a new welcome mat, can make a big difference in creating a positive first impression.
Organize closets and cupboards, especially walk-in wardrobes, as buyers are likely to peek inside. Neat, well-organized storage spaces not only look more attractive but also make packing easier when itās time to move.
If your home is crowded with furniture, think about renting a storage unit. Reducing the amount of furniture can make your home feel more spacious and appealing to a broader range of buyers. Decluttering in general will also help create a more open and inviting atmosphere.
Finally, after completing these preparations, take a step back and evaluate your home from a buyer's perspective. Drive up to the house and walk through it as if you were seeing it for the first time. If anything catches your eye in a negative way, address it before listing the property.
By following these steps, youāll be well-prepared to present your home to potential buyers, setting the stage for a successful sale and paving the way for your next move.
To find a range of local businesses who can help you with what you may need to FIX check out our Local Business Quick Guide.
Transforming a plain deck or garden into a vibrant outdoor oasis can be a fun and rewarding endeavor. Here are some creative ideas to add color, texture, and personality to your space:
These ideas will help you transform your deck or garden into a lively and inviting outdoor space that reflects your style and enhances your enjoyment of the outdoors.
With our Feature theme being "Time Out" everyone has a different idea of their own time out space. For some it may be spending time with friends and family, for others it could be heading to the gym or a yoga class, others it's getting out into nature, tending the garden, reading a book, knitting or it could be something as simple as having a long, soothing bath.
Whatever your way is of having time out there are lots of local options you can find to indulge. Just a few locals to keep in mind include gym, swim or excersie time out could be spent at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre or Northern Arena. If you want time away from the little ones you could enrol them for a few weekly sessions at Fame Preschool and then take yourself to the gym, a lovely beach walk or head to the golf course. You may love fishing at the weekend with the kids!
If you would like to indulge yourself in a relaxing facial or look good with treatments such as brows, lashes or other beauty treatments check out Queens Beauty now in Stanmore Bay. Perhaps treat the family to a portrait session and create those special memories with Photo Carnival. If you're keen to get out in the garden and want to put time into your garden you may want to check out tools to make this an easier rather than arduous task with range of outdoor power tools from Peninsula Mowers and Heating, or if youd rather just head out for a coffee or drink with friends or dinner out with the family head to Destination Orewa where you'll find so many great cafes, restaurants, bars and of course our magnificent Orewa Beach!
If you are looking in general for time out activities you may find yourself a new hobby from all the clubs and groups we have here on the Coast, you can find a good list of all cafes, restaurants, bars, takeaways, bakeries and more in our Dining Section, you can find beauty, hairdressers, massage, exercise options and more in our Health, Beauty, Medical and Wellness Section. If it's a bit of retail therapy you're after you'll find all local options in our Shopping/ Retail Section. If you are looking for great activities you can find links for fishing, golf, cycling, water sports and more in our Sport & Recreation Section or if you want to find Things to Do, walks, cycleways, beaches, playgrounds and more you'll find these in our Travel, Tourism and Local Activities Section.
It's important for everyone to take "Time Out" and even if it's just reading fun facts or getting ideas why not check out the articles we have brought to you in our very own "Time Out" Feature.
Running is popular in New Zealand and can become quite addictive. But running isnāt just good for the heart - read on to discover some of its other fantastic benefits. Then, grab your running shoes and head out into the fresh air!
So, get out there and enjoy the myriad benefits that running has to offer!
Whether short on cash or you simply just don't want to have to fork out everytime you go out as a family, there are always lots of free or fun things to do including -
Get the bikes out and go for a family bike ride. A quick lap around the neighborhood or park can be fun, if you're looking for local walks and cycles check our Hibiscus Coast Walks and Cycleways page or looking further afield around Auckland check out the Auckland Council Wheely Good Time Family Fun article.
Make a list of free museums and attractions in your area. Then work your way through the list until you've visited them all. Art museums, history museums, monuments-there's sure to be something worth checking out at each one. Locally a couple of great options to visit are the Silverdale Pioneer Village, Warkworth Museum and Bohemian Settlers Museum in Puhoi.
A great source for free books, movies and magazines, and it can also be a good source for other types of free entertainment. Check with your library to see if there are any upcoming story hours, concerts or educational programs that may be of interest to your family. Then be sure to take advantage of them. We have two great libraries here on the Coast and you can find details and information on our Linku2 Libraries page. (Please note at July 2024 the Orewa library is currently closed for renovation, library services are being offered out of the Orewa CAB).
Head out after dark for a night of stargazing fun. You can use a telescope and an astronomy guide to help you locate the constellations and planets or just wing it as you stretch out on a big blanket and stare at the sky. Either way, the evening promises to be as enjoyable as it is educational.
Play a few shorter games or one long one. Eitherway add a bit of spice by having prizes for the winners!
Add in some personalised charades - make one up each and get the others to act out - there are plenty of charade ideas on the internet too if you get stuck for ideas.
Depending on the time of year fruit picking may not be available. Head out catch a fish, pick some fruit and then back at home make something with your fresh produce! Whilst there are no local options there are a number of opportunities you will find in West and South Auckland so head out and make a day of it (check the picking season though!).
Cooking is an important life skill, and it can be a lot of fun to teach. Pick out an interesting cookbook and each pick a dish to make up a full meal - help each other with the courses and then sit down for a sumptuous but potentially unusual or unexpected meal!
Camping is the ultimate family adventure. Grab a tent, some sleeping bags and torch and head down the garden for a fun, family bonding night. You can sing camp songs, tell ghost stories, nibble on snacks and play games all without leaving home. We have lots of local options including Shakespear Regional Park, other nearby regional parks and an excellent campsite on the water's edge in Orewa.
Don't just pick the movies together but prepare together. Pop the popcorn, make up lolly bags, rearrange the room with pillows and cushions and set the stage for a fun family time.
These are just a few suggestions - there are so many things you can do together but just make sure you find the time to do them all!
Let us know in the comments below you're favourite family activity and any new ones we can add to this post! Thanks!
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is located in Abel Tasman National Park on the northern shores of South Island. This 54.4 km track features all streams bridged, but there are tidal crossings that can only be navigated within a few hours on either side of low tide. The track typically takes three to five days to complete and can be walked from either end. There are huts and campsites along the way, available for a fee, and bookings are required. There is no charge for day walks. Visitors can enter the park from roadend carparks, take water taxis to beaches along the track, or kayak along the coast.
The nearest towns of Nelson, Motueka, and Takaka offer all amenities you will need and Kaiteriteri has a petrol station, a small grocery shop, accommodation, and a cafƩ. Marahau also offers accommodation, a shop, and cafƩs. Note that Takaka is the last place for petrol before reaching Totaranui.
The track runs from Marahau in the south to Wainui in the north.
Starting at Marahau, the track passes through open countryside to Tinline Bay, then through beech forest with large kanuka trees, turning inland through several gullies. It offers views over Torrent Bay and the coast and islands to the north. Anchorage Bay has a hut and campsite.
Continuing north, the Torrent Bay estuary can only be crossed at low tide, though there is a high tide track around it. The track climbs steadily from Torrent Bay, passing above two valleys and crossing Falls River on a 47 m suspension bridge. It then descends through coastal forest to Bark Bay, which also has a hut and campsite.
After crossing the Bark Bay estuary, the track passes through manuka stands and along the shore past remnants of a granite quarry at Tonga Quarry. Onetahuti Bay can only be crossed within three hours on either side of low tide. The track then climbs over Tonga Saddle and descends to Awaroa Inlet, which has a hut and campsite.
The Awaroa estuary can only be crossed at low tide. The track then climbs over a low saddle, descends to Waiharakere Bay, and continues through forest to Goat Bay. From there, it climbs to a lookout above Skinner Point before descending to Totaranui.
The track heads around the Totaranui estuary, climbs over a low saddle, and winds down through lush forest to Anapai Bay. From Anapai Bay to Mutton Cove, it passes through sandy beaches and rocky headlands of regenerating kanuka. The track then climbs to another saddle and descends to Whariwharangi Bay. From here, it follows a small stream, climbs to a saddle overlooking Wainui Inlet, and winds down to the shore, following the estuary edge to the carpark.
Extract abridged from track description at www.doc.govt.nz
For many visitors to Africa, the primary attraction is the wildlife. No other continent offers such diverse and close-up viewing opportunities. Learning about the animals you may encounter can greatly enhance your experience.
Most safari-goers in Africa aim to see the "Big 5": Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhino. However, Africa is home to far more than these five species, with over 1,100 different mammals and more than 2,600 species of birds.
Facts courtesy of www.africaguide.com. For more information on Africa, please visit their website.