Neil uncovers an invasion that ruffled more than a few feathers in the Abel Tasman National Park and learns how to save whales, while Matt goes in search of the Mikhail Lermontov.

Neil visits the Royal Albatross as they return home from their wanderings; Riria unveils the mystery of a precious relic; and Jacky revs up the beach at the Burt Munro challenge.

Neil visits a mansion once owned by Terry Clark of 'Mr Asia' drug syndicate fame; Riria takes aim at the musket wars; and Jacky gets jazzy in the world's largest seacave.

Maritime archaeologist Matt Carter explores the West Coast's treacherous sea-faring history. Meanwhile, Oliver discovers a secret beach and goes out on a limb on coastal cliffs. Geologist Hamish Campbell encounters a school hanging on for dear life on the edge of the Tasman Sea in the tiny town of Granity, near Westport.

Oliver has his world turned upside down in Pauanui and marine biologist Jacky Geurts delves into Whangamata's mangrove wars and gets to grips with the treacherous surf rip at Hotwater Beach. Campbell also digs for this country's earliest human history on Great Mercury Island.

Oliver goes on a wild goose chase and uncovers the hidden history of a remarkable singing star and historian Riria Hotere reveals the plan to breed super kakapo on the remote island of Whenua Hou, off Stewart Island's northwest corner.

Oliver tackles a coastal sport like no other and encounters one of the world's great survivors at an exclusive haven for vulnerable species. Hotere tracks down a former skating star on Napier's Marine Parade and goes to sea to see an innovative fishing method.

In the South Island's biggest city, Oliver flies a kite, investigates the origins of the New Zealand accent and goes in search of a toxic arachnid with a tortured love life. Campbell uncovers groundbreaking research on Christchurch's watery past, which could have major repercussions for the future.

Hotere finds out how a city embraced its coast through art, and drops in on a unique surfing contest in Waitara. Marine biologist Jacky Geurts uncovers an underwater creature that has amazing healing properties and Carter uncovers a rare shipwreck with important historical links. Meanwhile, geologist Campbell investigates the energy-rich region's oil industry and Oliver encounters mysterious objects on the Taranaki coastline.

Neil gets his first ever glimpse of a live volcano; Jacky hunts for apostles from Gisborne's Age of Aquarius; and Matt dives into a tale of tragedy, treasure and treachery in Mahia.

Neil Oliver takes a fascination journey around the coast of New Zealand, uncovering stories that make us the island nation that we are today.

Tonight Neil steps onto Tmaki Makaurau's biggest volcanic eruption; meets the Kamikaze surfers who fought to make New Zealand nuclear free; and goes paddling, Piha style.