Zealandia - Karori Wildlife Sanctuary

New Zealand's most ambitious, and now widely copied, conservation project. The sanctuary is a "mainland island" surrounded by a predator proof fence. Open daily. Entrance Fee.
Zealandia's existence has made Wellington 'one of the only cities in the world where the diversity of native birds is increasing'.

The Karori Reservoir Tower and Store date from the 1870s when dams were built to contribute to Wellington's water supply.

This is a great place to take a picnic, enjoy walking in NZ bush and listening to the bird calls. Some of NZ endangered birds and animals are getting another chance here. It has wetas which are insects native to NZ. There are some living in a cave and others in man-made "hotels" hanging on trees.

An addition is an audio-visual exhibition showcasing New Zealand’s unique natural history. It portrays a journey though New Zealand ecological history; from the day before humans arrived; through centuries of catastrophic loss; and finally, to the present day, when New Zealanders begin to put our shattered paradise back together.

The display visitor centre was designed by Michael Gould & Alistair Luke from Jasmax

Zealandia can be easily reached by regular bus service, by free shuttle from the top of the cable car or by walking from the Cable Car which will take 25 - 30 minutes.

ZEALANDIA BY NIGHT TOUR

ZEALANDIA THE EXHIBITION AND SANCTUARY VALLEY

Reservoir Birds 1.2 by Brad Novak