Few places epitomize the strength of Wellington’s environmental cred and sense of community like Zealandia, an urban wildlife sanctuary established by a community trust in a hidden valley about 2km west of the city center. See many of NZ’s rare birds, including tūī, kākā and kereū in the wild, explore a regenerating forest or go at night to see rare little spotted kiwi, glowworms and more.
Zealandia at Your Own Pace
General admission gives you the option of touring the sanctuary over two consecutive days (good for combining a day visit with a return visit for a night tour). Start at Birdsong Gully to get familiar with the sights and sounds of birdlife in the park (there’s more than 40 species).
Over two to three hours, on the easier green and orange tracks, you’ll walk a loop of about 3km to the kākā feeding area and upper dam, returning via a suspension bridge, beach track and Lake Rd. Wear comfortable walking shoes and a wind and waterproof coat.
Guided Day Tour
A two-hour guided day walk is ideal if time is limited or for help spotting wildlife such as tuatara (NZ’s native reptile) and wētā (a giant bush cricket endemic to NZ). A good deal of the park is accessible, and service dogs are welcome by arrangement.
Zealandia at Night on a Guided Tour
One of the sanctuary’s most popular experiences is the two- to three-hour Zealandia by Night tour, departing at dusk after the sanctuary closes to the public. See glowworms and nocturnal little spotted kiwi (likely, but not guaranteed).
