Christchurch Wildlife Park and Nature Reserve
New Zealand’s most comprehensive themed wildlife park, the Willowbank experience tells the story of our country’s natural heritage.
Using pioneering and innovative display techniques, with an emphasis on creating a natural environment and an up-close and personal interactive experience, Willowbank showcases one of New Zealand’s best displays of native species.
Willowbank was the first to open a glass-free nocturnal house for kiwi in a natural environment, guaranteeing viewings every time.
Activities 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 at Willowbank
- 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
Fun Animal Encounters
Come and join the Capybara Encounter / Lemur Encounter. You will feed them, get to know them, take photos and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures.
Animal Feeding – Watch the Willowbank Keepers feed the animals at the following times and get some great photos!
Feeding times: 10:45am – Otters | 11:50am – Eels | 12:45pm – Gibbons | 1:00pm – Kea
If you want to hand-feed some animals yourself during a visit to Willowbank, animal food is available for purchase.
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 Opening Hours
9.30am – 5pm everyday except Christmas Day.
