Birds

We are home to some of Aotearoa's most endangered birds. Thanks to the Department of Conversation and New Zealand Birds Online information, click the links to find out more about some of our birds.

Kākāpō

These curious parrots are definitely keeping us busy. Read more about them and what makes them so unique.

Hihi/Stitchbird

With distinctive markings, the hihi is one of the most treasured and rarest birds.

North Island Kaka

Stunning, inquisitive and loud! Read more about the Kaka.

South Island takahē

Find out more about the world's largest flightless rail.

What our visitors say

The guides are what makes this so special. We had such a fabulous day!!! The guides were wonderful...we asked lots of questions which they patiently engaged with and gave us SO much information as we trotted around. It was like a nature story book.

Archers Homeschool Group

Incredible project and will only get even better with time.

Andy Williams

This place is special. Heaven for the nature-loving ornithologist. Gentle walkways, a viewing tower, and a clearing with kākā. Please respect and take care of this precious maunga.

Knixi

Beautiful spot - loved seeing the kākā, robins and fantails.

Emma O'Neill

A great morning activity for our family. Our mountain buggy terrain was easily able to navigate the trails.

Emma Southall

Sanctuary Mountain is meant for nature and bird lovers and those who wish to learn more about the native flora and fauna. The maintained trails provide an opportunity to see some unique biodiversity, including endangered species (when they come out of hiding). Our knowledgeable guide Sue...

Mike Cristello

A beautiful and peaceful place.

Tony Nicholls

An awesome project done solely by the community. Many thanks! Our friend from Switzerland and we hiked for more than 6 hours on parts of Te Tonga and Werere Traverse tracks and encountered many beautiful birds and scenery. After the hike, we had a rest at the visitor center with a great view and...

Jeffrey Ke

Great experience and wonderful staff so friendly and helpful. The bush and birdlife are amazing, have to go back to do the wetland tour to see the tuatara.

Gary Chapman

Thank you. It was an informative and engaging day. Engaging the children with what you were doing conservation wise and the guides information on the track were excellent. Excellent knowledgeable staff, friendly and plenty of them to help guide the students (and teachers) around.

Fairfield Intermediate