Question 1

When can we visit the nesting White Heron, Kōtuku?

Accepted Answer

The Kōtuku or White Heron can be observed at their only New Zealand breeding ground in the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve during spring and summer. 
They typically begin returning in September, with the last birds fledging and departing in early March.

Question 2

Is there just the one White Heron nesting site in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

In New Zealand, the only nesting site for the White Heron, or Kōtuku is in the remote and protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, near Whataroa on the West Coast of the South Island. 
For hundreds of years, the Kōtuku have returned to this exact location to nest.

Question 3

Do the Kōtuku, White Heron nest at Ōkārito?

Accepted Answer

No, the Kōtuku, or White Herons, do not nest at Ōkārito or on the Ōkārito Lagoon. 
While the Ōkārito Lagoon is a feeding area for some White Herons during the breeding season, the ancestral and only nesting site for White Herons in New Zealand is located in the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve. This significant and protected area is entirely separate from, and unconnected to Ōkārito.

Question 4

What time of day is best to visit and view the White Heron?

Accepted Answer

During the breeding season, the colony viewing is fantastic, with consistent activity throughout the day with no particular tour time offering more action than another.
The north-facing nesting site receives good light without the sun shining directly into visitors' eyes.

Question 5

When should I visit to see the adult Kōtuku in their full breeding plumage?

Accepted Answer

September, October, and early November are the ideal months to witness the White Herons in their full breeding plumage, with stunning green eye area and striking black beaks.
Once the chicks begin hatching, these colours gradually fade, though most birds retain their beautiful lacy feathers throughout the nesting season.

Question 6

When do the Kōtuku, White Heron chicks start hatching?

Accepted Answer

The first Kōtuku, White Heron chicks of the nesting season typically begin hatching in early November, with hatchings occurring most days throughout November and December. 
This is an exciting and entertaining time at the colony.

Question 7

When should I visit to see big chicks learning to fly?

Accepted Answer

January and February are the best months to observe the large 'teenager' chicks as they learn to fly and forage along the Waitangiroto River below the nesting site. 
When their parents return with food, the feedings are noisy, frenzied, and fascinating to observe.

Question 8

How far away are the nesting White Heron from the viewing hide?

Accepted Answer

The White Heron nesting site is approximately 20 metres from the viewing hide, which is positioned directly in front of the nesting birds, across the narrow Waitangiroto River.
Kōtuku frequently fly overhead and perch nearby - either in front, beside or above - offering visitors exceptional close-up encounters.

0800 523 456

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ page.

If you have another question, please don't hesitate to

White Heron
Sanctuary Tour

Nesting Season:
September to early March

info@whiteherontours.co.nz