Zealandia by Day Tour

Karori, Wellington



Enjoy the sights and sounds of Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne during the daytime with an experienced guide. Soak up the beautiful scenery while learning more about New Zealand’s unique ecological history.

Zealandia Ecosanctuary Guided Walking Tour

Experience a 2-hour guided walking tour at Zealandia Ecosanctuary, Wellington, ideal for nature enthusiasts and small groups.

Highlights

  • 2-hour guided walking tour of Zealandia Ecosanctuary in Wellington
  • Learn about New Zealand’s native wildlife from an expert guide in a small group
  • See rare and endangered birds including takahē, tūī, and kākā, or spot a tuatara

Description

Discover New Zealand’s native wildlife during an immersive 2-hour guided walking tour at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne Ecosanctuary, located 10 minutes from Wellington CBD. This fully fenced, predator-free ecosanctuary houses some of the world’s most vulnerable animals.

Zealandia is accessible by car, free shuttle, or cable car from Wellington CBD. Check in at the visitor centre ticket desk to meet your guide. The tour begins with an introduction at the ecosanctuary’s exhibition, followed by a bio-security bag check to prevent predators entering the sanctuary. Then, explore the sanctuary to observe native flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

Your expert guide will share the history, sights, and sounds of the forest, as well as local wildlife insights. See kākā (bush parrots), kākāriki, tūī, and bellbirds feeding at stations along the walkways. After the tour, you can relax with a coffee or meal at Rātā Café located at the visitor centre.

Includes

  • Entry ticket
  • Professional tour guide
  • 2-hour small-group walking tour

Excludes

  • Hotel pick-up and drop off
  • Food and drinks

Important Information

  • This is a small-group tour limited to 12 people
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • The tour involves moderate walking and uneven surfaces; it is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or wheelchair users
  • Please inform your guide of any medical conditions such as asthma
  • The tour operates in all weather conditions; please dress accordingly

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing. Book in advance to secure your spot in the small group.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Zealandia by Day Tour is a 2-hour guided walking experience through the Zealandia Ecosanctuary, showcasing native New Zealand wildlife in Wellington.
Zealandia Ecosanctuary is situated about 10 minutes from Wellington CBD, in a fully fenced, predator-free area.
Expert guides with knowledge of New Zealand's native wildlife lead the small group tours at Zealandia.
You can see rare and endangered birds such as takahē, tūī, and kākā, and possibly spot a tuatara during the tour.
The guided walking tour at Zealandia lasts approximately 2 hours.
Yes, the tour is designed for nature enthusiasts, families, and small groups seeking a focused wildlife experience.
It is recommended to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak times; check the official website for booking details.
Participants should be prepared for walking on varied terrain and wear comfortable shoes suitable for outdoor conditions.
Tour times vary seasonally; check the Zealandia website for the most current opening hours and availability.
The day tour focuses on daytime wildlife viewing; for nocturnal animals, separate night tours are available at Zealandia.

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