White Heron Sanctuary Tours, Whataroa
View the magnificent Kotuku (White Heron), the Kotuku Ngutu Papa (Royal Spoonbill), the Kawapaka (Little Black Shag) and other Bird life - all in their natural environment.
Tours to the White Heron Colony open mid September and the Kotuku disperse from the colony about the end of February/Early March each year. Bookings are advisable with a deposit or voucher required for a confirmed booking.
A unique experience to New Zealand's only Kotuku (White Heron) nesting site, in the Waitangi Roto Nature reserve, the Kotuku Ngutu Papa (Royal Spoonbill) also nests here.
The round trip tour from the Whataroa office, back to the office, takes approximately 2 ½ to 3 hours. The tour consists of a short minibus ride to the river to connect with the jet boat. The jet boat ride is a gentle 20 minutes each way. From the jetty it is just a short boardwalk (500mtrs) through native bush to where you can stay for 30-40 minutes to view the birds.
Tours run under concession with the Department of Conservation. Entry is by Permit Only. All tours are accompanied by a guide. Wet weather gear provided.
Please note: There is no access to the White Heron Nesting Site from Okarito. White Heron Sanctuary Tours are the only operators to this area. Kayaks are not permitted in the White Heron Sanctuary.
Rainforest Nature Tour and Scenic Jetboating All Year Round
A scenic Jetboat ride down the Waitangi Taona River, into the Waitangi Roto Nature Reserve. View magnificent stands of ancient Kahikatea Forest (800 to 1000 years old).
A relaxing cruise amongst the primeval giants of our rainforests, gently float through some of the world's most intriguing scenery, learning how we preserve the delicate balances within one of natures oldest ecosystems .
View the beautiful orchids and ferns that adorn the reserve.
This area is home to numerous native birdlife including Tui, Bellbird, Wood pigeon and Fantail. You will also view the site where the White Heron (Kotuku) comes to breed in the spring.
A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE
We first conducted this tour during winter 1999 and the response was every bit as good as we get for the Kotuku ( White Heron) Tour. The Rainforest, the Mountains, the bird and plant life are absolutely superb during the winter months.
NOTE TO OPERATORS OF LARGE GROUPS: As with the White Heron tour, if you choose to make these tours "optional" for your groups, and there is only a certain percentage who wish to take part, then we can run these clients on to Franz Josef after the tour, to meet up with the rest of your group (minimum of 6 needed for this.)
Tours run under concession with the Department of Conservation. Entry is by Permit Only. All tours are accompanied by a guide. Wet weather gear provided.
White Heron Sanctuary Tours, Whataroa Enquiry Form
Address:
P O Box 19
Whataroa
South Westland
Phone: +64 3 753 4120
Freephone: 0800 523 456
Fax: +64 3 753 4087
Web: Visit website
RATES: Quoted in NZ$, Subject to change.
Please Note: The price for both tours is the same.
Adults: $120 per person
Children: (12 years and under) $55
(Price includes permit fee and GST)
Please Note: Adult fare applies to children over 12 years
Minimum Boatload 4 adults - Maximum 12 adults.
We will co-ordinate your booking with others to fill the boat.
Our approximate running times are as follows:
9am, 11am, 1pm, & 3pm
Other tours can be arranged if there is sufficient demand.