The majestic Kōtuku, White Heron has a small population of approximately 200. To see just one is a rare and special sight, but visiting the White Heron colony, at their only New Zealand breeding ground is a truly unique nature experience!
Guaranteed viewing of the magnificent Kōtuku throughout the nesting season, typically mid- September to mid-February.
White Heron Sanctuary Tours is the original and only tour company permitted to visit the White Heron nesting site and to operate within the Department of Conservation administered, Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
We are a New Zealand family-owned and operated business and have been guiding visitors to the White Heron nesting colony for 36 years!
We look forward to sharing with you this special New Zealand wildlife and nature attraction.
Stunning South Westland scenery and fantastic opportunities for photography.
Small group tours with friendly, experienced, local guides.
All weather activity, wet weather gear is provided.
The White Heron Sanctuary Tour
Join us on a guided visit to New Zealand’s only Kōtuku, White Heron breeding colony within the enchanting, flora and fauna abundant, Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
Be delighted and captivated by the beauty and interactions of the Kōtuku in their natural nesting environment.
Enjoy fascinating and varied viewing throughout all stages of the White Heron nesting season.
Learn about the significance of the sacred Kōtuku, a rare and special bird in New Zealand and about its nesting habits.
Also view the comical Royal Spoonbill, Kōtuku Ngutupapa and charming Little Shag, Kawaupaka sharing this special space and nesting alongside the elegant White Heron, Kōtuku.
The protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve is a safe haven for many other native birds too, including Tui, Bellbird, Robin, New Zealand Pigeon, Tomtit, Fantail, Fernbird, Welcome Swallow and Kingfisher.
Feel the pioneer spirit as you explore the impressive Kahikatea rainforest and view New Zealand’s tallest trees, some over 1000 years old!
Discover the intriguing native trees, ferns, flowers, orchids and fungi within this diverse ecosystem.
See the bird monitoring, predator control and preservation work we do to help protect this unique area.
Our exclusive, guided tour includes an informative minivan ride through private farmland and wetlands, into the Department of Conservation protected, Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, where entry is by permit only.
Once in the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve an easy 800 metre walking path through the lush rainforest, leads to a purpose-built, elevated viewing hide right at the White Heron nesting site.
We look forward to sharing the White Heron Tour experience with you.
All tours operate with a Department of Conservation concession and entry is by permit only.
Daily tours times: 9am, 12noon and 3pm
Duration: 2.5 hours return trip from Whataroa
Cost including DOC entry permit: $150.00 Adult, $75.00 Child (12 years and under)
Suitable for all ages and abilities, assistance is available.
Tours depart from our White Heron Sanctuary Tour Office in Whataroa on SHW 6 – 30kms North of Franz Josef and 100kms South of Hokitika.
Please contact us for further information about the White Heron breeding season and to book your White Heron Tour experience.
Please note: There is no access to the White Heron nesting site from Ōkārito or the Ōkārito Lagoon. Kayaks and boats are not permitted in the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
The Rainforest Nature Tour
From March until September, outside of the White Heron nesting season, we continue to visit and explore the seasonal wonders of the stunning Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
In the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve time stands still. Here you can immerse yourself in nature, listening to the birdsong and savouring the tranquillity of this pristine environment, surrounded by ancient Kahikatea trees aged 800-1000 years!
Enjoy an exclusive, guided walk on a purpose-built path amongst beautiful, lush native rainforest.
Learn about the wonderful New Zealand native trees, unique ferns, intricate orchids, pretty wildflowers, and the fascinating fungi that adorn the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
This protected and undisturbed area is home to numerous, native birds including Tui, Bellbird, New Zealand Pigeon, Fantail, Fernbird, Royal Spoonbill and many others.
Visit the site where the White Heron, Kōtuku return to breed each year, during the spring and summer months.
See our extensive trapping network and how it operates to control predators and help preserve the delicate balance within one of nature’s oldest ecosystems.
We’re excited to provide you with an authentic and memorable West Coast outing in nature.
All tours operate with a Department of Conservation concession and entry is by permit only.
Daily tours times: 9am, 12noon and 3pm
Duration: 2.5 hours return trip from Whataroa
Cost including DOC entry permit: $150.00 Adult, $75.00 Child (12 years and under)
Suitable for all ages and abilities, assistance is available.
Prices quoted in NZ$, subject to change.
