Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne - a car driving down a road next to tall grass
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Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne

4.7
·6k reviews·Wellington, New Zealand

A groundbreaking 225-hectare ecosanctuary in Wellington, restoring New Zealand's lost native wildlife and flora.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning walks

Birds are most active

CrowdLow
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Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne - a car driving down a road next to tall grass

Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne

Best Time

Morning walks

Birds are most active

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A groundbreaking 225-hectare ecosanctuary in Wellington, restoring New Zealand's lost native wildlife and flora.

4.7
(6k reviews)

"One of the favorite things in New Zealand so far. The birds and the lush greenery!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the trails!

🦉 Night Tour is a Must

Seeing the kiwi and other nocturnal animals is a highlight. Guides are super knowledgeable!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Native Birdsong Symphony

Native Birdsong Symphony

Throughout the sanctuary

Immerse yourself in the chorus of rare native birds like the tūī and pīwakawaka. Listen to their unique calls echoing through the lush forest.

Nocturnal Wildlife Encounters

Nocturnal Wildlife Encounters

Night tour routes

Experience the magic of Zealandia after dark. Spot elusive nocturnal creatures, including the iconic kiwi, on a guided night tour.

Lush Forest Trails

Lush Forest Trails

Walking tracks

Wander through ancient forests, over suspension bridges, and past vibrant native plants. A photographer's paradise!

Kākā Encounters

Kākā Encounters

Bird feeders and forest

Witness the cheeky and intelligent kākā parrots up close. They are often seen around bird feeders, ready for a chat.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Peak Times

Zealandia can get busy, especially during school holidays and weekends. Booking your tickets online in advance is recommended to secure your spot and avoid queues. Consider the time of day for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Embrace the Wild: What to Wear

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Zealandia's extensive tracks. Dress in layers as the weather in Wellington can change quickly. Many visitors recommend bringing insect repellent, especially for evening visits.

Best Times

When
Morning walks
Why
Birds are most active
Crowd
Low
When
Evening night tours
Why
See nocturnal wildlife
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nothing compares to the sounds of native birds like tūī, pīwakawaka, and riroriro at home 💚 🇳🇿 #kiwisabroad #kiwisinaustralia #kiwisinlondon #kiwisinusa #kiwisinuk #kiwisineurope #kiwisoverseas #Birds #Birdsnz #BirdTok #BirdTikTok #nz #NewZealand #Aotearoa #birdwatching #wildlife #wildlifenz #animals #naturelovers
@visit_zealandia
18.2K likes • 176.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the trails! Reddit

🦉 Night Tour is a Must

Seeing the kiwi and other nocturnal animals is a highlight. Guides are super knowledgeable! Reddit

Saturday in the suburbs… kinda? We spent a chill morning wandering the bush tracks and bird watching at @visit_zealandia , fuelled by coffee from @rata.cafe ☕️ We are weeks from welcoming our new baby (aka a million weeks pregnant 🤰 ) so will be taking a short hiatus from weekend adventures for a while but back soon as a family of four! 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 #saturdayinthesuburbs #zealandia #wellingtonwithkid...
hannahbenny
140 likes • 6K views
Another successful trip to Zealandia today with the Massey Student Wildlife and Conservation Club! We had some keen photographers in the mix, so stay tuned for some more beautiful photos. Thanks to everyone who came along. It was a blast! Thanks to our events coordinators for planning, and to Rosie and Hana for hosting. 🦜🌳🦎🌲🪲 #conservation #zealandia #wildlifeclub
masseystudentwildlife
64 likes • 0 views

📸 Bring Your Camera

The lush greenery and diverse birdlife make for stunning photos. Capture those tūī and kākā moments! Instagram+1

🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend

Especially for evening tours, protect yourself from any biting insects. Reddit

A series of hops from this friendly Toutouwai (north island robin) at @visit_zealandia with @masseystudentwildlife #robin #newzealand #wellington #zealandiaecosanctuary #wildlife #visitzealandia #birds
rgudopp_photo
51 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the trails! Reddit

🦉 Night Tour is a Must

Seeing the kiwi and other nocturnal animals is a highlight. Guides are super knowledgeable! Reddit

📸 Bring Your Camera

The lush greenery and diverse birdlife make for stunning photos. Capture those tūī and kākā moments! Instagram+1

🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend

Especially for evening tours, protect yourself from any biting insects. Reddit

🚌 Easy Bus Access

The #2 Karori bus from Wellington City Centre drops you right at the entrance. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Zealandia for its incredible biodiversity and successful conservation efforts, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the magical experience of seeing native wildlife. The night tours are a particular standout, offering a unique chance to spot elusive creatures like the kiwi. While generally positive, some visitors note that certain tracks can be challenging, and the cost of entry might be a consideration for some.

"Brilliant experience! I did the night tour in July 2025. The night tour was well paced, and the guides were exceptionally knowledgeable about the construction and maintenance of the sanctuary - as well as all the plants and animals that call Zealandia home. With the night tour, I also got free entry to Zealandia the same/next day - so that I could explore the various walking tracks myself. Keep up the amazing work. 10/10… would visit again in a heartbeat."

Bronwyn Isaac

"One of the favorite things in New Zealand so far. The birds and the lush greenery along with the water make for very photogenic hikes. There is a suspension bridge and bird feeders that attract birds. The hikes are filled with bird song. The map and bird guide that is free is very useful. Finally, the exhibition and the five minute video are worth it."

Ben Park

"We loved the nocturnal tour. Totally recommended.
In the end of the tour in the sanctuary, we saw a kiwi.
I need to emphasize the free environment the animals have here, I like it!"

Alvaro Vidal Santoro

What People Like

Exceptional wildlife encounters
Knowledgeable and passionate guides
Magical night tours

What People Dislike

Entry price can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Zealandia is easily accessible by public transport. The #2 Karori bus route from Wellington City Centre stops directly at the sanctuary entrance, making it a convenient option for visitors. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Zealandia for visitors who choose to drive. It's a good option if you're exploring Wellington by car.

While it's a bit of a trek, it is possible to walk to Zealandia from the city center, but it will take a significant amount of time. Taking the bus is generally more efficient.

Zealandia has a network of accessible paths, particularly around the main visitor areas and some of the lower tracks. However, some of the more rugged trails may be challenging for wheelchairs.

Zealandia is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually around 4:00 PM. Night tours have separate timings, so check their official website for the most up-to-date information.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to book your Zealandia tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to guarantee entry and avoid potential queues. Reddit

General admission typically includes access to the sanctuary's walking tracks, exhibition, and the chance to see native flora and fauna during the day. Night tours are usually a separate booking. Reddit

Yes, Zealandia offers guided daytime tours led by knowledgeable guides who can enhance your understanding of the sanctuary's conservation efforts and wildlife. Night tours are also a popular option. Reddit

Some visitors have reported getting free entry to Zealandia the same or next day with their night tour ticket, allowing for daytime exploration. It's best to confirm this when booking. Reddit

Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and families. It's advisable to check the official Zealandia website for the most current pricing information.

📸 📸 Photography

Bird feeders are excellent spots for close-up shots of birds like kākā and tūī. Keep an eye out for toutouwai (North Island robin) hopping around the tracks. Instagram+2

Tripods are generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways, especially on busy days.

Telephoto lenses are highly recommended for capturing birds in their natural habitat. Many photographers use lenses like 150-600mm or 200-800mm for great results. Instagram+1

Kiwi are nocturnal and are housed in a special nocturnal house or seen on night tours. Photography inside the nocturnal house may be restricted due to flash sensitivity, so check guidelines.

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography and are when many birds are most active. TikTok

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Zealandia is home to a wide array of native New Zealand species, including rare birds like the kākā, tūī, and pīwakawaka, as well as reptiles, amphibians, and unique plant life. TikTok

Many visitors find the guided tours incredibly valuable for learning about the sanctuary's conservation work and spotting wildlife they might otherwise miss. Reddit

You can easily spend 2-4 hours exploring the walking tracks and exhibition. If you plan to do a night tour as well, allocate a full day.

Yes, there is a cafe at Zealandia that offers refreshments and light meals. Many visitors also enjoy bringing their own picnic to enjoy amidst the natural surroundings. Instagram

The exhibition provides an engaging introduction to Zealandia's history, its conservation mission, and the unique biodiversity of New Zealand's pre-human ecosystem.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Zealandia is a fantastic destination for families. The walking tracks are generally easy to navigate, and the chance to see native birds and other creatures up close is incredibly engaging for children. Pack snacks and drinks, and consider the daytime guided tours which are often interactive and informative for younger visitors. Instagram

Look out for the interactive exhibition which provides a fun introduction to New Zealand's natural history. The nocturnal tours can also be an exciting adventure for older children, offering a glimpse into a different world after dark. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as exploring the sanctuary can take several hours.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Zealandia is a dream for photographers, especially those interested in wildlife. The native birds like the tūī and kākā provide endless opportunities for stunning shots, particularly around the bird feeders. Bring your telephoto lenses to capture the intricate details of these feathered friends. Instagram+2

The lush forest scenery and unique plant life also offer beautiful landscape photography opportunities. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light. Be patient, as wildlife sightings often require a bit of waiting, but the rewards are well worth it. Remember to check any specific photography guidelines, especially for sensitive areas like the nocturnal house.

🌿 Nature & Conservation Lovers

For those passionate about conservation, Zealandia is an inspiring visit. It's a prime example of successful ecological restoration and a vital sanctuary for endangered species. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of bringing back New Zealand's unique biodiversity. Instagram

Consider joining a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the sanctuary's mission and the science behind its success. The exhibition also provides valuable context. Your visit directly supports Zealandia's ongoing efforts to protect and preserve New Zealand's natural heritage for future generations.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Zealandia Ecosanctuary: A Conservation Marvel

Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is a groundbreaking conservation project in Wellington, New Zealand. It's a 225-hectare urban ecosanctuary dedicated to restoring a lost world. The sanctuary is enclosed by a state-of-the-art predator-proof fence, creating a safe haven for native New Zealand flora and fauna to thrive. This allows for the reintroduction of species that have been lost from mainland New Zealand due to introduced predators. TikTok

The vision behind Zealandia is to recreate a pre-human New Zealand, showcasing the country's unique biodiversity. Visitors can explore lush forest valleys, walk along pristine streams, and witness the incredible success of conservation efforts firsthand. The sanctuary is a living laboratory, constantly working to protect and restore native species and their habitats. Instagram

From the vibrant calls of native birds to the rustling of lizards in the undergrowth, Zealandia offers an immersive experience into New Zealand's natural heritage. It's a testament to what can be achieved when dedicated conservationists and the community work together to protect precious ecosystems.

Wildlife Encounters: Birds, Lizards, and More

Zealandia is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly birdwatchers. The sanctuary is home to a remarkable array of native bird species, many of which are rare or endangered. Listen for the melodic calls of the tūī and the cheerful chirping of the pīwakawaka (fantail). You might also spot the intelligent kākā parrot, often seen around the bird feeders, and the elusive kiwi during a night tour. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the birds, Zealandia also provides a sanctuary for native reptiles and amphibians. Keep an eye out for various lizards basking in the sun on warm days, and listen for the croaks of native frogs. The predator-proof fence is crucial in protecting these vulnerable species from introduced predators, allowing them to flourish within the sanctuary. Instagram

Experiencing these native species in their natural, protected environment is a core part of the Zealandia visit. Whether you're on a daytime hike or a specialized night tour, the opportunity to see these unique creatures up close is truly special and a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Exploring Zealandia: Trails and Tours

Zealandia offers a network of walking tracks catering to various fitness levels, allowing visitors to explore the sanctuary at their own pace. The valley loop track is a popular choice, offering a good overview of the sanctuary's diverse habitats. For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided daytime tours are available, led by passionate guides who share fascinating insights into the flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. Reddit

The night tours are a particularly unique and highly recommended experience. As dusk settles, Zealandia transforms, and you have the chance to encounter nocturnal wildlife that is rarely seen during the day. Spotting a kiwi in its natural habitat is a truly unforgettable moment for many visitors. Reddit

Whether you prefer to wander independently with a map and bird guide or join an expert-led tour, Zealandia provides a rich and engaging experience. The combination of well-maintained trails and diverse tour options ensures there's something for everyone to discover within this extraordinary ecosanctuary.

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