Last updated June 2026
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is a 225-hectare predator-free ecosanctuary in Wellington’s Karori valley, just minutes from the CBD. Enclosed by an 8.6-kilometre pest-exclusion fence completed in 1999, the sanctuary has restored native forest and wildlife to the valley. Visitors encounter thriving populations of kākā, tūī, bellbird, tuatara and other species that were once rare or absent on the mainland. The site offers self-guided exploration along more than 30 kilometres of tracks plus guided night tours for a chance to see nocturnal species such as little spotted kiwi.
Practical Information
| Location | End of Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington |
| Hours | Open daily 9:00am–4:30pm (last entry 4:00pm) except Christmas Day |
| General admission | NZers: Adult $26, Child (5–17) $10; International: Adult $31, Child $12 (family options available; valid for two consecutive days) |
| Night tours | Guided tours after hours; book in advance via visitzealandia.com |
| Shuttle | Free electric shuttle from Wellington Cable Car and Tākina (Wakefield Street); timetable on official site |
| Parking | Limited on-site parking available |
About Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
Zealandia occupies the former Karori Reservoir catchment and represents the world’s first fully fenced urban ecosanctuary. The innovative predator-proof fence excludes all introduced mammals from mice upwards, allowing native species to breed successfully in a mainland setting. The valley contains regenerating native bush, wetlands, a reservoir and mature forest patches that support a rich ecosystem.
More than 40 native bird species have been recorded inside the sanctuary, including many that are increasing in number thanks to the absence of predators. Reptiles such as tuatara and Hamilton’s frog also thrive here, alongside invertebrates and freshwater species. The project demonstrates how urban conservation can restore pre-European biodiversity close to a city centre.
Tracks range from easy lakeside paths to steeper forest routes, with good signage and interpretation panels. The sanctuary operates under a long-term vision that extends hundreds of years into the future, focusing on ecosystem restoration and community engagement.
Wildlife and Tracks
Common sightings include loud, curious kākā parrots, tūī and bellbirds filling the dawn and dusk choruses, and kererū (native pigeons) in the canopy. Tuatara are frequently seen basking on paths, while weka and saddleback (tīeke) forage on the ground. Little spotted kiwi maintain a healthy population and are most active after dark. Over 30 kilometres of walking tracks wind through the valley, with options suitable for different fitness levels and timeframes.
Night Tours
Guided night tours provide the best opportunity to observe nocturnal wildlife, including little spotted kiwi, wētā and glowworms. Tours run after the sanctuary closes to day visitors and are led by knowledgeable guides. Advance booking is essential as spaces are limited and tours are popular year-round. Participants should wear sturdy footwear and warm clothing.
Getting There and Access
The free electric shuttle operates between the city centre (Cable Car and Tākina) and the sanctuary entrance. Regular bus services also reach Karori, with a short walk from the nearest stop. Limited parking is available on site. The visitor centre includes a café, and the site offers accessibility information for visitors with mobility needs.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently describe seeing kākā flying overhead right at the entrance and tuatara on the main paths. Many note how accessible the native wildlife experience feels compared with more remote locations, with the sanctuary providing a strong sense of restored forest sounds and activity close to the city.
Reviewers often highlight the value of night tours for seeing kiwi and experiencing the full night chorus. Comments commonly mention knowledgeable guides, well-maintained tracks and the overall impact of seeing species thriving in a predator-free environment just minutes from central Wellington.
Where to Learn More
Visit Zealandia: Official site with current tickets, shuttle timetable, track updates and night tour bookings.
Wellington City Council: Information on the sanctuary’s history and role in local conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Zealandia located?
End of Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington, approximately 10 minutes from the CBD by free shuttle.
What are the current opening hours?
The sanctuary is open daily 9:00am–4:30pm (last entry 4:00pm) except Christmas Day.
How much does entry cost?
Prices vary for New Zealanders and international visitors; check visitzealandia.com for the latest rates and family options. Tickets are valid for two consecutive days.
Can I see kiwi during the day?
Little spotted kiwi are resident but primarily nocturnal. Daytime visitors may see burrows or signs, while night tours offer the best viewing opportunities.
Do I need to book in advance?
General admission can often be purchased on site, but online booking is recommended. Night tours require advance reservations as they have limited capacity.
Is there a shuttle service?
Yes, a free electric shuttle runs from the Wellington Cable Car and Tākina to the sanctuary entrance; check the timetable on the official website.
What wildlife is most commonly seen?
Kākā, tūī, bellbirds and tuatara are frequently observed. Kererū, weka and saddleback are also regularly spotted along the tracks.
Are dogs allowed?
No dogs or other pets are permitted inside the sanctuary to protect the wildlife.
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