Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry Ticket

Northwood, Christchurch



Visit the only place to see New Zealand's 'Big 5' native wildlife, including the famous kiwi bird, all in one location! Get up close and personal with over 50 different wildlife species.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Wildlife Experience in Christchurch

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, located 5 minutes from Christchurch Airport, offers an immersive native wildlife experience suitable for all ages.

Highlights

  • Observe kiwi birds in the nocturnal house with an unobstructed view
  • Encounter New Zealand’s 'Big 5' species: kea, kaka, takahe, tuatara, and kiwi
  • Hand-feed farm animals while exploring the reserve grounds

Description

Set in a natural environment with diverse native species, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve provides insight into New Zealand’s endangered wildlife and ongoing conservation efforts. Walk through the large kea enclosure to see the world’s only alpine parrot. Meet the tuatara, often referred to as the world’s only living dinosaur, the rare takahe, and the kaka bush parrot.

The reserve features a purpose-built kiwi viewing facility where you can see these birds without glass barriers. The onsite café and bar offer a relaxing spot to take a break, overlooking the deer paddock. During winter months, enjoy the warmth of the roaring open fire while you rest.

Includes

  • Entry ticket to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
  • Guaranteed kiwi viewing

Important Information

  • The Kiwi Nocturnal House opens daily at 10:30 AM
  • Food for hand-feeding farm animals, wild eels, and birds is available for purchase onsite
  • Children 15 years and under must be accompanied by a paying adult
  • Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sensible footwear
  • Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Christmas Day

Cancellation Policy

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

For the best experience, arrive early to visit the Kiwi Nocturnal House when it opens and bring comfortable shoes for walking the reserve grounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

The day entry ticket allows full access to all wildlife enclosures and visitor facilities at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve near Christchurch Airport.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is located a 5-minute drive from Christchurch Airport and about 20 minutes from Christchurch CBD.
Visitors can see New Zealand's 'Big 5': kea, kaka, takahe, tuatara, and kiwi, among other native species.
Yes, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is suitable for visitors of all ages, including children interested in native wildlife.
Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the wildlife enclosures and walking trails at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.
Yes, there are on-site cafes and food outlets at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve near Christchurch for visitor convenience.
Yes, visitors can walk through the large kea enclosure to experience close encounters with these native birds.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve educates visitors about New Zealand's endangered species and ongoing conservation projects.
It is recommended to check the Willowbank website for current ticket availability and to book in advance when possible.
Opening hours vary seasonally; check the Willowbank website for the most up-to-date visitor hours in Christchurch.

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