Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, Waikato
Sanctuary Mountain Maungtautari is a mainland ecological island located in the North Island of New Zealand. The ancient, vibrant forest is alive with rich fauna, including New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered species. Surrounded by a 47km predator-proof fence, it is one of the largest fenced sanctuaries in New Zealand.
The Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust (MEIT) oversees the upkeep of the vast 3400-hectare world-class conservation project and ecosystem to maintain rich biodiversity in a safe ecological environment. The kaitiaki (guardians) work in partnership with local iwi (Maōri people), landowners, the local community and both government and non-government entities to continue species reintroduction and breeding programmes.
Step through the pest-proof gate into another world, where an ancient forest tower majestically above well-maintained walking tracks and the air is filled with birdsong. Explore the Sanctuary at your own pace or with an experienced guide who will help you spot the wildlife, including Kākā, takahē, tuatara, kiwi, tīeke and more. Relax in the clearing or take an optional walk up the 16-metre observation tower, offering a unique perspective from within the forest canopy.
Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, Bay of Plenty
Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park is one of New Zealand’s most remarkable and significant forests.
The park is valued as a taonga (treasured possession) containing the living children of Tāne Mahuta, the Māori god of the forest. Local iwi (tribe) of the Ngāti whare are the active kaitiaki (guardians or carers) of the park, working with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to protect the natural, cultural, and historic resources for the benefit and wellbeing of future generations of Aotearoa and visitors.
Experience the park through walking tours, mountain biking or an overnight stay.
The National Kiwi Hatchery, Rotorua
See conservation efforts in action at The National Kiwi Hatchery – the national leader in kiwi husbandry, egg incubation systems, hatching techniques and kiwi chick rearing. Working extensively towards saving New Zealand’s national icon, the flightless bird, the kiwi, the hatchery has been visited by many, including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Here, 100% of your ticket entry goes straight back to the kiwi hatching programme.
Visitors are welcome to join a 45-minute hatchery experience, or go behind the scenes on an immersive guided tour. An educational, thought-provoking and truly unique experience for people of all ages.
Tongariro River Rafting Blue Duck Experience, Waikato
Help protect the rare and endangered whio (blue duck) from predators with this experience. Whio are unique to this river and, of the four species of duck living here, the only one that can survive fast-flowing rivers with raging rapids.
Visitors will be able to raft the mighty Tongariro River, stopping at remote and beautiful spots on the riverbank. During the experience, guests will take part in the Blue Duck Project by walking the trapping lines and helping us to check our predator traps while learning more about the conservation project and what makes the whio so unique.
Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary, Taupō
A unique blend of golf course and sanctuary, Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is not one to be missed. The experience was designed to blend with the natural rolling countryside and developed to meet the rigorous design standards for world-class championship competition.
Since 2012, Wairakei has worked closely with the Department of Conservation to develop conservation and restoration opportunities for native birds and wildlife to thrive. And in 2020, they celebrated 50 years and the completion of a robust greens restoration project of 18 testing holes set in exceptional natural beauty, birdlife and wildlife.
Lava Glass is the playground of Lynden Over, one of New Zealand’s leading glass artists. In his studio, you get the opportunity to watch him and resident artists at work. Wander through an arty oasis featuring manicured grounds and hundreds of glass sculptures. Lava Glass is the first certified net carbon zero glass studio in the world.
