Discover an Ecosanctuary at Zealandia

If you’re looking to see some wildlife around Wellington, then look no further – visit Zealandia, an ecosanctuary where you can immersive yourself in some of the countries most extraordinary species. Explore a lush forest full of rare animals unique to New Zealand and explore this world-renowned conservation success!

Where can I see wildlife in Wellington?

Just a short trip from the city centre, Zealandia is the perfect place to get away from the noise of the city and immerse yourself in nature. Find over 40 exotic bird species, reptiles, plant life and more unique to New Zealand.

This 225 hectare wildlife sanctuary is the first of it’s kind in the world, with a 500-year vision to restore Wellington’s magnificent valleys and forest ecosystems to their pre-human state. They’ve reintroduced 18 species of native wildlife back into the area, waiting to be found by you!

You’ll find an incredible array of animals at the sanctuary. See if you can spot the 40 different species of birds, including the iconic little spotted kiwi, and the charming hihi bird, both only found in New Zealand. Find yourself in a mini Jurassic Park, with plenty of reptiles and amphibians roaming the grounds. Look out for the tuatara, New Zealand’s ‘living fossil’ that’s been around since the Dinosaur age, or one of oldest living species of frog, the Maud Island frog. Surround yourself in a beautiful variety of greenery, with trees and flora found nowehere else in the world.

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the splendour of the sanctuary, then take one of the tours with their expert and friendly guides. Take a 2 hour day tour, or experience Zealandia by night in their night tour, where you may be able to spot the glowing worms, slugs or frogs.

  • General admission:
    Adults: $23
    Child (under age 5): Free
    Children (ages 5 – 17): $10
    Concession (NZ senior, NZ student): $21
  • Check their experiences page for tour options.
  • Most of the sanctuary is accessible for wheelchair users.
  • Electric shuttles pick up & drop off visitors for FREE from outside Wellington I-Site, 111 Wakefield Street, Te Aro.
  • Limited free car parking available on site, or at the Birdwood Road carpark around 500m away.
  • There’s a bus stop around a 2 minute walk from the sanctuary at the end of Waipu Road.

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