Kiwi Park Queenstown
51 Brecon Street, Queenstown 9300
Rating: 4.5 ★ (2102 ratings)
Details
Kiwi Park Queenstown is a family-owned and operated wildlife centre, nestled within five to eight acres of beautifully landscaped native bush in the heart of Queenstown. This unique sanctuary is dedicated to the vital conservation and rehabilitation of New Zealand's endangered wildlife species, providing a serene escape from the lively town centre. Its commitment to transforming what was once an unofficial rubbish dump into a thriving haven for native flora and fauna truly sets it apart for visitors seeking meaningful encounters with nature.
A highlight for many is the guaranteed opportunity to observe live kiwi in a specially designed nocturnal house, offering the country's best viewing experience of these iconic birds. The park also features over 20 species of native wildlife, including the ancient Tuatara, which can be explored with a complimentary self-guided audio tour available in multiple languages. Engaging 30-minute free-flight conservation shows, presented by passionate animal keepers, provide captivating close-up encounters with endangered creatures, while the Honeybee Centre offers fascinating insights into these crucial insects and a chance to sample New Zealand honey.
This attraction suits families particularly well, offering an unhurried and soothing experience that educates and inspires all ages. Its central location, conveniently situated beside the Skyline Gondola, allows for easy integration into a broader Queenstown itinerary. Whether visitors are seeking an educational outing, a relaxed break, or a direct way to support conservation, Kiwi Park provides a rewarding experience that contributes directly to the protection of New Zealand's unique natural heritage, proving an excellent choice even on cooler or rainy days due to its indoor and covered attractions.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM | Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM | Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM | Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM | Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM | Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM | Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Contact
+64 3 442 8059 | https://www.kiwibird.co.nz/
Comments
Top Tip: Be sure to check the daily schedule for the conservation shows and kiwi sightings as soon as you arrive. Timing your walk around these events is essential to making the most of your day and ensuring you don't miss the highlights. A must-do for nature lovers in Queenstown.
Take note of the timing for the kiwi encounter. The enclosure is very dark, as kiwis are nocturnal. No bright lights or mobile phone lighting, and let your eyes slowly adjust to the darkness. This is a rescue and conservation facility focused on giving the kiwis the best chance of survival, so don’t expect them to dance, perform or pose for you. Just enjoy watching them behave naturally.
The staff were informative and pointed us towards the most direct route to the kiwi encounter. There are also many other native birds and avians around the park. A giant sequoia tree near the centre of the park is hard to miss. There is also a separate kiwi enclosure that can be visited outside the encounter timing.
The park is quite hilly with plenty of slopes, so wheelchair users may find it challenging. For accessibility, don’t enter from the cable car entrance. There is a side entrance near the ticketing area. Press the button near the gate for access.
Parking can be a challenge as the car park beside the park is reserved for the pre-school. There is a small gift shop selling toys, apparel and honey.
Overall, good value and well worth a visit if seeing a kiwi is on your New Zealand itinerary.