Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre Guided Tour from Wellington

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6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Explore the stunning Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, New Zealand’s premier captive breeding facility, just a scenic two-hour drive from Wellington. Nestled in 942 hectares of ancient Podocarp Forest, this sanctuary is home to unique endangered species including the iconic takahē and Manakara, the only white kiwi in captivity. Engage with passionate local iwi on the Te Hīkoi o Pūkaha guided walk, where you'll learn about Māori spirituality and enjoy traditional kai, including kawakawa tea and fried bread. Don't miss the cheeky kākā parrots at the Kākā Cafe while you soak in the natural beauty around you.

- Scenic 2-hour drive through the Rimutaka Hills from Wellington
- Explore diverse wildlife and learn about conservation efforts
- Join the Te Hīkoi o Pūkaha guided walk, lasting 2.5 hours
- Enjoy traditional Māori food and local stories with your guide

What's Included

travelling by car or van depends on the size of the group
Bottled water
Admission fee

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

pick up from any point

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    as we leave wellington, we follow the edge of the harbor towards the Hutt valley behind, we follow the Hutt River which rambles down from upper Hutt

    Admission ticket free
  • 1

    we stop at the top of the rimutaka hill halfway to the Wairarapa to have a break and learn a little history about the road

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    as we carry on down, we enter Featherston the first town in the Wairarapa this holds a museum to the pioneer days of the original train track

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    We then travel through farming country passing through Greytown and Carterton on our way to Masterton

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    We arrive in Masterton after travelling about 1 and 1/2hrs from wellington and continue onto our destination which is about 15minutes away

    Admission ticket free
  • 3

    when we arrive there will be a 2.5 hr. guided tour which includes meeting a passionate local iwi on an in-depth walk through the ngahere. Learn the Māori world view, spirituality and connection to place. Share kai (food) with your guide and fellow guests of kawakawa tea and fried bread. you will meet the Kiwi new Zealand's famous bird also feed eels and see kaka feeding and native ducks after the tour we head back to wellington

    2 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Wainuiomata Taxis

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Involves Animals
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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