Museums & galleries
Zealandia
Zealandia
Zealandia is a 225 hectares of fenced ecological sanctuary located in Wellington. It is designed to protect native New Zealand wildlife from predators, allowing indigenous bird and insect species to return to a forest environment. Visitors go here to observe native wildlife in a controlled habitat and walk through restored forest trails.
Getting There
The sanctuary is located in the hills south of the city centre. You can reach it via public bus or by car. The journey from central Wellington typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic and the specific departure point.
Duration of Visit
Allow between 2 to 4 hours to explore the site. This provides enough time to walk the main loop trails, visit the viewing hides, and observe the wildlife without rushing.
When to Visit
Early morning is often the best time for wildlife spotting, as birds are generally more active. The sanctuary is accessible year-round, though weather in Wellington can be unpredictable; waterproof clothing is recommended. It can get crowded during school holidays and weekends.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its location, you can combine a visit here with other nearby sites:
- Wrights Hill Fortress (0.9km)
- Futuna Chapel (1.7km)
- Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery (1.7km)
- Carter Observatory (1.8km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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