Zealandia - Twilight Guided Eco Wildlife Tour

Wellington , New Zealand

Zealandia - Twilight Guided Eco Wildlife Tour

Active

(57 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience Zealandia as it transforms from daylight to twilight during this special 2.5 hour guided experience. You will have an opportunity to experience the dusk chorus sung by a cacophony of native New Zealand birds. See birds returning to the sanctuary to settle into their nests and marvel at the sight of the evening sky and hear the changing sounds of birds from day to night. The fully-fenced, urban eco-sanctuary is located 10-minutes from Wellington central business district, a not to be missed experience! Witness firsthand why Zealandia has been named the top tourism operation in Aotearoa New Zealand 2023, winning the prestigious Air New Zealand Supreme Tourism Award.

Available options

Twilight Tour - 5:45pm

Twilight Tour - 5.45pm: 2,5 hour guided tour

Twilight Tour - 6:30pm

2,5 hour guided tour

Twilight Tour - 6:15pm

2,5 hour guided tour

Twilight Tour - 7:15pm

2,5 hour guided tour

Twilight Tour - 6:45pm

2,5 hour guided tour

Twilight Tour - 7:00pm

2,5 hour guided tour

Twilight Tour - 6:00pm

2,5 hour guided tour

Twilight Tour - 5.30pm

Twilight tour - 5.30pm: 2,5 hour guided tour

What's included

Hot kawakawa tea (a natural herbal tea) is served on the tour, to enjoy in the forest.

Guided walking tour of Zealandia: The Exhibition and Sanctuary Valley

Entry to Zealandia as a general admission visitor on the day of or day after your tour.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

These exclusive tours start 2 hours before sunset, when the last of the daytime visitors have gone. You will begin your tour with the highlights of Zealandia's interactive exhibition where you will uncover the unique natural history of New Zealand and hear about the 500-year vision of the sanctuary. Your guide will then lead you on an after-hours tour through the regenerating valley during one of the most active times of the day for many of our species. Encounter unique wildlife such as wētā, takahē, tuatara and more. You may even experience the first sounds of the nocturnal birds, such as kiwi and ruru (morepork) as they wake.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

38 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum age is 5 years

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Wear sturdy footwear, bring extra layers of clothing and a waterproof jacket.

To get to ZEALANDIA at night we recommend you book a taxi via your hotel concierge team or call Wellington Combined Taxis Ph: (04) 384 44 44

Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time

Meeting point

Departure Point: Zealandia Visitors Centre
Address: End of Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington
Directions: To get to ZEALANDIA at night we recommend you book a taxi or uber.
You can call Wellington Combined Taxis
Dates: See Availability

Important notes

To get to Zealandia at night we recommend you book a taxi via your hotel concierge team or call Wellington Combined Taxis Ph: +6443844444
• Please dress appropriately for an all-weather outdoor experience
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Present this voucher to the ticket desk
• Tours are 2.5 hours in duration, starting and ending at the Zealandia Visitors Centre
• Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
• Not wheelchair accessible (please enquire for a private tour)
• Arrive at the Visitors Centre 15 minutes before your tour start time
All proceeds raised through the sale of ZEALANDIA tour tickets contributes to the ongoing work of the sanctuary to restore nature. Your visit is an important part of the sanctuary’s success.

About Wellington

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its arts scene, coffee culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled between rolling hills and the harbor, it offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Te Papa Museum

Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum, showcasing the country's art, history, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours Free entry, some exhibits may have fees

Wellington Botanic Garden

A beautiful garden with a variety of plant collections, walking trails, and scenic views of the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Mount Victoria Lookout

A scenic lookout offering panoramic views of Wellington and the surrounding coastline.

Nature 1 hour Free

Weta Workshop

A special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Cultural 1-2 hours NZD 30-50

Wellington Cable Car

A historic cable car offering scenic views of the city and harbor.

Historical 30 minutes NZD 5-10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven. The food is wrapped in leaves and cooked underground for several hours.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy, vegan options available.

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand dish featuring fresh fish, usually snapper or tarakihi, coated in batter and deep-fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and gluten, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Mountain biking Spa treatments Beach lounging Picnicking Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Wellington is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of common safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being cautious in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Wellington Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Wellington Railway Station

By bus

Wellington Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Metlink is the main public transport system in Wellington, offering a network of buses, trains, and ferries.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Te Aro Miramar Karangahape Road (K' Road)

Day trips

Red Rocks

30 km from Wellington • Half day

A scenic coastal area known for its rugged cliffs, sea lions, and wildlife.

Matiu/Somes Island

20 km from Wellington • Half day

A small island in Wellington Harbour with a rich history and scenic views.

Kapiti Coast

60 km from Wellington • Full day

A scenic coastal area known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Wellington Cup Week • Late February to early March Wellington on a Plate • August Wellington Jazz Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Te Papa Museum, New Zealand's national museum, for a comprehensive overview of the country's art, history, and natural environment.
Explore the vibrant and eclectic Cuba Street, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and street art.
Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for scenic views of the city and harbor.
Visit the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Enjoy Wellington's thriving coffee culture by visiting one of the numerous specialty coffee shops and roasteries.