Listen to the sounds of the forest and marvel at the biodiversity with over 5 km of wide, metaled walking tracks. Our sanctuary is accessible to most (suitable for pushchairs - please phone us for details) and there are plenty of seats along the way. Some conveniently placed near nectar feeding stations where hihi - stichbird and korimako - bellbird like to visit. Give it time and a friendly pītoitoi - North Island robin might come along and say kia ora - hello!
As you explore with your visitor guide map, keep an eye out for all the interesting interpretation panels along the way. Make sure you call into the clearing where you may have the opportunity to see one of our cheeky kākā - New Zealand forest parrot and take a walk on the wild-side with a treetop view from our 16 metre high observation tower.
Your Sanctuary Explorer Pass is for entry to the structures and sites in Te Tūī a Tāne southern enclosure. This fee helps us maintain these facilities including the viewing tower, aviary and signage, as well as supporting our conservation work in this very special place.
We recommend taking in the Rātā track from the entrance to the tower (800m). This will take approximately one hour to return. Alternatively, walk up to the tower and clearing area (30mins) and then decide which tracks you'd like to continue exploring from there. There are 5km of wide, metalled walking tracks that loop together throughout Te Tūī a Tāne, the southern enclosure.
Rātā track
Continue exploring the Rātā track - 2.2km. Allow 1 and a half hours. Medium fitness. If you only have time for one walk, we suggest this one. Head up to the 16m observation tower to experience the forest canopy and spend time in the clearing where kākā might visit.
Rātā track loop
From there, continue on the Rātā track loop – experience a more open forest with wider tracks, suitable for families and groups. Visit the kōura pond. How many can you spot? Are any kōkopu swimming underneath the overhanging vegetation today?
Wharepaku (toilet)
There is one toilet located on the Rātā track loop, just down from the crossroads junction with the Rimu track, near the event centre.
Nīkau track
Return from the tower, via the Nīkau Track - 700m. Allow 20-30 minutes. Medium fitness. There are a couple of slightly steeper sections along this track. New Zealand's only native palm, the Nīkau abounds on this scenic track.
Rimu track
Explore the Rimu track - 2km. Allow 1 hr. Medium fitness.
This track takes you alongside a stream into the tranquil interior of the enclosure. This track is recommended for bird sightings amongst some of the most magnificent native trees. Listen for the wingbeat of Kererū, the constant chatter of Pōpokotea (Whiteheads) in the treetops and the unmistakable voice of the Tīeke (North Island Saddleback).
Please note your Sanctuary Explorer Pass is valid for 6 months from purchase date and can only be used during daylight hours on the day it is redeemed. It can be collected/or bought on the day from reception at Manu Tīoriori Visitor Centre. Closed 25 December.
Opening hours: 9:00am - 4:00pm daily. Closed 25th December.
Standard booking terms and conditions apply.
