Whataroa is the departure point for tours to visit NZ’s only White Heron nesting site in the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
Join us to observe the magnificent White Heron, Kotuku in their natural nesting environment.
Learn all about this rare bird in New Zealand and its nesting habits.
White Heron Sanctuary Tours
The White Heron Tour includes an informative minibus ride through private farmland into the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
A short walk leads visitors through ancient Kahikatea Rainforest to a purpose-built viewing hide to observe and be captivated by the White Heron, Kotuku colony.
The nationally endangered White Heron has a small population of approximately 200. To see one of these majestic birds is a rare and special sight and to visit their only breeding ground is a truly unique experience!
The Royal Spoonbill, Kotuku Ngutupapa and the Little Shag, Kawaupaka also share this special area, and all can be easily seen from the hide.
White Heron Sanctuary Tours (Established 1987) is the original and only tour operator to visit New Zealand’s only White Heron nesting site. For over 35 years the Arnold family have been delighting visitors by sharing this world class attraction with them.
Tours operate with a Department of Conservation concession and entry is by permit only.
Small, personalised group tours accompanied by an experienced, local guide.
Tours operate wet or fine, wet weather gear is provided.
Duration:Â Approx 2.5 hours return trip from Whataroa.
Cost including DOC entry permit: $150 per adult, $75 per child -12yrs and under.
Please note: There is no access to the White Heron nesting site from Okarito or the Lagoon. Kayaks and boats are not permitted in the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
Rainforest Nature Tour – Waitangiroto Nature Reserve
From March – September, outside of the White Heron nesting season, we continue to visit the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve with our Rainforest Nature Tour.
Enjoy a personalised, guided walk on a purpose-built path amongst the majestic giants of our native rainforests.
Feel the pioneering spirit as you view spectacular stands of ancient Kahikatea rainforest, 800-1200 years old.
Learn about our NZ native trees, unique ferns and the wild orchids and flowers that adorn the nature reserve.
This area is home to numerous, native birdlife including Tui, Bellbird, Wood Pigeon and Fantail, Royal Spoonbill and White Heron.
Visit the site where the White Heron, Kotuku return to breed each year, during the spring and summer months.
View and learn about our extensive trapping network and how it operates to control pests and help preserve the delicate balance within one of nature’s oldest ecosystems.
Tours operate with a Department of Conservation concession and entry is by permit only.
All tours are accompanied by an experienced, local guide.
Tours operate wet or fine, wet weather gear is provided.
Duration:Â Approx 2.5 hours return trip from Whataroa.
Cost including DOC entry permit:Â $150 per adult, $75 per child – 12yrs and under.
Tour Notes:
Our usual tour times are 9am, 12pm &Â 3pm daily but these may change so bookings are advisable.
Whataroa is on State Highway 6 – 30kms North of Franz Josef and 100km South of Hokitika.
Quoted in NZD, subject to change.
