Pukaha National Wildlife Centre - Family Entry

Not too long ago, New Zealand was known for its deafening dawn chorus and unusual wildlife found nowhere else on the planet.

Today, visitors can get a glimpse of this unique world by entering Pūkaha, a restored native forest that is home to some of the country’s most endangered species.

By stepping into this unfenced reserve you also contribute to the breeding programmes working to return the bird song across New Zealand, for the shore plover, pāteke, whio and many more. Visitors will also get to see Manukura, the only white Kiwi in captivity in the world and the hand-reared kōkako, Kahurangi.

Visitors can book a guided or Behind the Scenes tour which depart daily with advance booking. Or you can join one of four daily talks/feeds included with general admission:

You can see breeding and advocacy birds including takahe, hihi (stitchbird), kākāriki and korimako (bellbird) while the 942-hectare reserve is also home to wild North Island kākā, kereru (New Zealand pigeon), rifleman and kōkako, as well as North Island brown kiwi.

A longer walking track is also available (1.5hrs approx.) that takes you deeper into the forest. You can top off your day with a visit to the interactive gallery and Kākā Cafe, overlooking the Takahe enclosure. Just keep an eye out for the cheeky Kākā who love to beg for a bit of lunch!

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Pukaha National Wildlife Centre - Entry