Zealandia, Wellington

Zealandia, Wellington

Zealandia, previously known as the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary, is a protected ecosystem designed to restore the original 'bird land' that New Zealand was before the arrival of humans from Polynesia around 800 years ago.

Zealandia, previously known as the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary, is a protected ecosystem designed to restore the original 'bird land' that New Zealand was before the arrival of humans from Polynesia around 800 years ago. Spread over 225 hectares of valley with reservoir between Wrights Hill and the Brooklyn wind turbine on Polhill, Zealandia's rich biodiversity is manifest in the 40 species of birds, along with endemic reptiles, amphibians and lush flora cordoned off from the world by 8.6 kilometres of pest-exclusion fence. Explore Zealandia to see native endangered species, whose numbers were dwindling after the introduction of foreign mammals in the environment. Learn more about its history and objectives in the Exhibition.

Join one of the several guided tours around to see birds, reptiles and insects in their natural habitat. 45 minute guided 'Walk and Talk' explorations of the lower valley are available on weekdays at 11:15 am and 1:15 pm, and on weekends at 11:15 am, 12:15 pm, 1:15 pm, and 2:15pm. Zealandia by Night Tours run for 2.5 hours and offer a glimpse of nocturnal species. Tours depart approximately 30 minutes before sunset. There are also shorter 1.5 hour long Kid’s Night Walks.

To reach Zealandia, you can take the Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay to the top of the Botanic Gardens, and the free shuttle from there. Public buses going up to Waiapu Road near the sanctuary are also available.