The majestic Kōtuku or White Heron has a small population of approximately 150-200. Encountering just one is rare and special, but to witness the exquisite beauty and interactions of the White Heron colony, together at their only New Zealand breeding ground is an extraordinary sight and a unique experience!
White Heron Sanctuary Tours (Established 1987) offers an exclusive tour to visit the Kōtuku nesting site where visitors can enjoy guaranteed viewing of these magnificent birds throughout the nesting season, typically mid-September to late February.
We are the original and only tour company permitted to visit New Zealand’s only White Heron breeding ground and to operate within the Department of Conservation administered, Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
As a New Zealand family-owned and operated business, we have 37 years’ experience guiding visitors from around the world and sharing with them the magic of the Kōtuku.
Our small group tours, led by knowledgeable local guides, deliver an educational and unforgettable nature excursion.
- Enjoy stunning South Westland scenery and fantastic photography opportunities.
- We operate rain or shine, with quality wet weather gear provided.
- Our tours are suitable for all ages and abilities, and assistance is available.
- Private tours and large group bookings can be arranged.
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.
Departing from Whataroa, our 2.5-hour White Heron Sanctuary Tour includes an informative scenic minivan ride through private working farmland and wetlands into the Department of Conservation protected, Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, where entry is by permit only.
Upon arrival an easy 800 metre walk through lush rainforest leads to a purpose-built, elevated viewing hide at the White Heron nesting site where visitors can observe the Kotuku in their natural nesting environment.
- Delight in the captivating interactions of the White Heron as they nest, nurture, and raise their young in their natural nesting environment.
- The viewing is fascinating throughout all stages of the breeding season.
- Learn about the significance of the sacred Kōtuku, a rare bird in New Zealand and about its behaviours and nesting habits.
Also observe 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 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 in action the bird monitoring, predator control and preservation work we do to help protect this unique area.
Book your White Heron Tour experience today!
- All tours operate with a Department of Conservation concession and entry is by permit only.
- Daily tours times: 9am, 12noon and 3pm – bookings are recommended
- Duration: 2.5 hours return trip from Whataroa
- Cost including DOC entry permit: Adult 18+$150/Student 13-17 yrs $100/ Child 3-12 yrs $75.00
- Tours Depart: from our Tour Office at 64 Main Road, Whataroa – 30kms north of Franz Josef
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.
Join us for an authentic and memorable West Coast nature outing.
- All tours operate with a Department of Conservation concession and entry is by permit only.
- Tours times: 9am, 12noon and 3pm – bookings are essential
- Duration: 2.5 hours return trip from Whataroa
- Cost including DOC entry permit: Adult 18+$150/Student 13-17 yrs $100/ Child 3-12 yrs $75.00
- Tours Depart: from our Tour Office at 64 Main Road, Whataroa – 30kms north of Franz Josef
