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Visit NZ's ONLY Kōtuku, White Heron Nesting Colony!
Welcome to
White Heron Sanctuary Tours
Established 1987
Join us for a unique nature experience!
We invite you to accompany us on our exclusive guided birdwatching tour to visit New Zealand’s only White Heron or Kōtuku breeding ground, located in the enchanting Waitangiroto Nature Reserve near Whataroa on the West Coast of the South Island.
Here, you will be greeted by the extraordinary sight of the country's sole White Heron colony — approximately 50 pairs of these rare and majestic birds, interacting and nesting together in their ancestral, untouched natural habitat.
Be captivated by the ethereal beauty and grace of the Kōtuku. Witness elaborate plumage displays, endearing courtship rituals, stick gathering, nest building, incubation and chick feeding — all behaviours seen only here at their nesting site, during their breeding season.
Enhancing this unforgettable wildlife encounter, visitors will also view charismatic Royal Spoonbills and charming Little Shags as they nest alongside the White Herons.
Explore the ancient Kahikatea rainforest with its abundant seasonal wonders, and on clear days, take in breathtaking views of Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and the Southern Alps.
Enjoy Guaranteed Viewing of the rare Kōtuku!
at New Zealand's ONLY White Heron nesting site
Nesting Season is typically mid-September until early March
"One of NZ's best birdwatching experiences"
"A birdwatcher's and photographer's dream!"
Discover the
White Heron
Sanctuary
Be mesmerised by the exquisite beauty of the Kōtuku colony, standing in striking contrast against the lush native backdrop of their sole nesting site in Aotearoa.
The viewing is fascinating throughout all stages of the White Heron breeding season.
Also observe nesting Royal Spoonbill and Little Shag, and other birdlife.
Witness
Kōtuku
Magic!
Watch as nature unfolds and capture the delightful activity from our purpose-built, elevated viewing hide.
Learn about the behaviours, breeding habits and cultural significance of the sacred Kōtuku - a rare and symbolic bird in New Zealand.
Amazing close encounters.
Varied and entertaining viewing.
The
Enchanting
Waitangiroto
Feel the pioneer spirit and appreciate
the impressive Kahikatea Rainforest.
Discover a diverse array of intriguing native birds, trees, ferns, orchids, mosses, lichens, and fungi.
See in action the conservation work we do to help protect this unique area and
its precious wildlife.
Stunning scenery.
Awesome photo opportunities.
One & Only
Exclusive
Guided Tour
Established in 1987, White Heron Sanctuary Tours is the original and only tour company permitted to visit the White Heron breeding ground.
A 'Kiwi' family-owned and operated business, we have 38 years of experience guiding visitors from around the world and sharing - the magic of the Kōtuku.
Small, personalised group tours.
Knowledgeable, local guides.
Breathtaking Views!
Journey with us in scenic South Westland
Entry to the protected White Heron nesting site is permitted through the Department of Conservation and only possible by joining a guided tour with White Heron Sanctuary Tours, Whataroa.
Tour Times
9:00am, 12:00pm & 3:00pm
Bookings are recommended.
Minimum numbers apply.
Duration
2.5 hour round trip
We depart from and return to our tour office in Whataroa.
Cost
Adult 18 +
Student 13-17
Child 3-12
$150.00
$100.00
$75.00
Includes GST (15%) and DOC entry permit fee.
Location
64 Main Road
Whataroa
Please check-in 15 minutes before scheduled
tour time.
Whataroa
Your gateway to the Kōtuku breeding ground.
Located on the West Coast of the South Island, Whataroa is the departure point for all tours to visit the nesting Kōtuku or White Heron, one of New Zealand's rarest and most graceful birds.
Our office is centrally located in the heart of the Whataroa township on State Highway 6 - 100km south of Hokitika and a short 30km drive north of Franz Josef, and the renowned glacier region.
We hope you will join us to explore the unique birdlife and stunning landscapes of South Westland - a region rich in natural beauty and ecological wonders.
