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Visit NZ's ONLY Kōtuku, White Heron Nesting Site
Join us for an exclusive-access guided tour to observe the rare Kōtuku
nesting in the wild at Aotearoa’s only White Heron breeding ground,
a one-of-a-kind New Zealand nature experience!
New Zealand's Only
White Heron, Kōtuku Colony Tour
Welcome to
White Heron Sanctuary Tours
Whataroa
Established 1987
We are the original and only tour operator permitted to guide visitors to Aotearoa’s sole
White Heron nesting site within the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve
Discover the Magic of the Kōtuku
We invite you to join our exclusive-access guided birdwatching tour to Aotearoa'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.
Witness the extraordinary sight of the country’s sole Kōtuku colony. Rare and majestic White Herons gathered and interacting freely in the wild, within their ancestral and natural nesting environment.
Be captivated by the ethereal beauty and grace of the revered Kōtuku. Witness elaborate plumage displays, endearing courtship rituals, stick gathering, nest building, egg incubation, chick feeding and first flights - all behaviours observed only here at their protected Sanctuary, and only 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 and its rich diversity and abundant seasonal wonders.
On clear days, take in breathtaking views of the mighty Southern Alps, including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Enjoy Guaranteed Viewing
of the rare Kōtuku with
white heron sanctuary Tours
Nesting Season is typically from mid-September until early March
Visitor Comments:
"A birdwatcher's and photographer's dream!"
"One of NZ's best birdwatching experiences"
"A truly unique wildlife encounter "
the
White Heron
colony
Be mesmerised by the exquisite beauty of the Kōtuku, in striking contrast to the lush native backdrop of their sole nesting site in Aotearoa.
The viewing is fascinating throughout the entire White Heron breeding season, with behaviours and sights varying as nesting progresses.
Also observe nesting Royal Spoonbill and Little Shag, and other birdlife.
One & Only
Exclusive Access
Kōtuku colony Tour
White Heron Sanctuary Tours is the original and only tour company permitted to visit the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, and 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.
The enchanting
Waitangiroto
Nature Reserve
Feel the pioneer spirit and appreciate
the prehistoric Kahikatea Rainforest.
Discover a diverse array of intriguing native birds, trees, ferns, flowers, mosses, lichens, and fungi.
See our dedicated conservation work in action, helping to protect this unique area and its precious wildlife.
Stunning scenery.
Awesome photo opportunities.
Witness the
magic of Kōtuku
in the wild
Watch as nature unfolds, capturing the delightful activity of the White Herons from our covered, elevated viewing hide.
Learn about the behaviours, breeding habits and cultural significance of the revered Kōtuku - a rare and deeply symbolic bird in New Zealand.
Amazing close encounters.
Varied and entertaining viewing.
Breathtaking Views!
Journey with us in scenic South Westland
Whataroa Valley, Whataroa, New Zealand
Tour Information and Pricing
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 is the gateway to
New Zealand's sole Kōtuku nesting site
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 iconic 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.
