Explore One of Christchurch’s Top Wildlife Attractions
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Christchurch offers unforgettable wildlife experiences, interactive animal encounters and one of New Zealand’s best kiwi viewing experiences. As one of the most popular family attractions in Christchurch, Willowbank is home to native New Zealand wildlife, animals from around the world and family-friendly activities including keeper feeding sessions and close-up wildlife encounters. Located in Canterbury, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is one of the top wildlife parks in Christchurch for visitors wanting to experience New Zealand animals up close.
Wildlife Park Christchurch Experiences
- Kiwi encounters and nocturnal kiwi viewing
- Capybara encounters
- Lemur encounters
- Daily animal feeding sessions
- Native New Zealand wildlife displays
- Family-friendly wildlife experiences
- Christchurch zoo and wildlife park attractions
- Educational wildlife experiences for children
Wildlife Experiences at Willowbank
Check out some of our amazing activities! Nowhere else in New Zealand will you find such a wide range of New Zealand wildlife so close to you.
Kiwi Encounter
- Nocturnal House open daily from 10.30am
- No Glass
- 100% kiwi viewing guarantee
Our Animals
Willowbank is divided into three different sections.
- Farmyard Section
- New Zealand Section
- Zoo/Exotics Section
Willowbank Feeding Times
Watch Willowbank’s keepers feed the animals daily and enjoy fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the reserve.
- 10:45am – Otters
- 11:50am – Eels
- 12:45pm – Gibbons
- 1:00pm – Kea
Animal food is also available for purchase if you would like to hand-feed selected animals during your visit.
Willowbank Cafe
Relax and enjoy the cafe and bar, before, during or after exploring the reserve.
The cafe and bar are open from 9.30am daily or for functions by arrangement.
By combining New Zealand food, wine and wildlife, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve has created a full entertainment experience for visitors to Christchurch with a uniquely New Zealand flavour.
The Willowbank Barn and Farmyard
Willowbank offers a rustic venue with the opportunity to combine New Zealand’s wildlife, culture, and cuisine for a truly memorable event. It is the perfect venue for corporate events, incentives, family events, a special birthday, team building days or a magical wedding.
Willowbank Hours
Open daily from 9:30am – 5:00pm, excluding Christmas Day.
Willowbank Tickets & Entry Information
Visit Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Christchurch for family-friendly wildlife experiences, native New Zealand animals and interactive encounters suitable for all ages.
Explore More of Canterbury
Planning more adventures during your stay? Discover more attractions, activities and places to visit in our Canterbury Travel Guide.
FAQ’s
What animals can you see at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve features native New Zealand wildlife, kiwi, capybara, lemurs, farm animals and exotic species.
Does Willowbank Wildlife Reserve have kiwi encounters?
Yes, Willowbank offers a glass-free nocturnal kiwi house with guaranteed kiwi viewing.
What are Willowbank feeding times?
Daily feeding sessions include otters, eels, gibbons and kea at scheduled times throughout the day.
Is Willowbank suitable for families?
Yes, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is one of Christchurch’s most popular family-friendly attractions.
