Visit NZ's ONLY Kōtuku, White Heron Nesting Site
The White Heron Sanctuary Tour
Nesting Season is typically mid-September until early March
Witness the extraordinary sight of New Zealand's only Kōtuku colony.
Rare and majestic White Herons gathered and interacting in the wild, within their natural nesting environment.
Our exclusive 2.5-hour guided tour offers a unique opportunity to discover and learn about Aotearoa's only White Heron nesting colony, located within the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve on the West Coast of the South Island.
Departing from our office in Whataroa, the experience begins with a scenic and informative minivan journey through private working farmland and wetlands, before entering the enchanting Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, with its rich biodiversity and abundant seasonal wonders.
Surrounded by ancient Kahikatea rainforest, a gentle 800-metre walk leads to our purpose-built covered viewing hide. From here observe the elegance and otherworldly presence of the rare Kōtuku, and be captivated by behaviours unique to their breeding ground, seen nowhere else in New Zealand.
The White Heron Sanctuary is also home to nesting Royal Spoonbills and Little Shags allowing for additional birdwatching and photographic opportunities.
All tours are accompanied by an experienced local guide and are permitted by the Department of Conservation, ensuring an environmentally respectful, safe and informative wildlife experience.
Enjoy fascinating and varied viewing throughout the Kōtuku, White Heron breeding season, with each visit revealing unforgettable scenes and special moments in nature.
Join Us to Discover the Magic of the Kōtuku
White Heron 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 +
Youth 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
the waitangiroto
Nature Reserve
The Waitangiroto Nature Reserve is the Home of the Kōtuku. As Aotearoa's only breeding site for this iconic species, it
holds national significance. Spanning 1,534 hectares, the reserve is protected by the Department of Conservation, preserving its natural integrity and timeless charm.
The reserve's ecological significance is further highlighted by its extensive Kahikatea forest, unusual abundance of Kōwhai, an unique swamp and floodplain vegetation.
ancient rainforest
Stroll amongst primeval podocarp rainforest where towering Kahikatea, New Zealand's tallest trees have stood for centuries. Explore the rich diversity of native flora within this layered forest ecosystem.
the white Heron colony
Witness the ethereal beauty and magic of the Kōtuku and observe fascinating, interactive behaviours seen only at their nesting site - from spectacular feather displays and beak kissing, to mutual preening, vocal greetings, territory chases, stick gifting, frenzied chick feedings, and maiden flights.
Learn about the Kōtuku, its life cycle, nesting habits, and its conservation and cultural significance here in Aotearoa.
Visiting the Kōtuku colony at their ancestral breeding ground is an uplifting and enriching experience, instilling a profound sense of peace, renewal, and a deep connection to nature.
Royal Spoonbills
& little shags
Observe and learn about the comical Royal Spoonbill, Kōtuku Ngutupapa and the adorable Little Shag, Kawaupaka, as they share this special space and nest alongside the elegant White Heron.
Other Birds
The protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve is a haven for numerous other native birds too, including Tūī, Bellbird, Grey Warbler, NZ Pigeon, South Island Tomtit, Fantail, Silvereye, Welcome Swallow, Brown Creeper, Fernbird and Kākāriki.
Look out for these birds and other species during the tour - encountering them will add to your Sanctuary experience.
Conservation Efforts
Learn about the important bird monitoring and conservation work we do to help protect the precious wildlife here, particularly the White Heron.
See the cutting-edge tools and methods we use to control predators, and the conservation work that helps maintain balance in this timeless ecosystem.
majestic views
On the outward and return journey, take in the dramatic West Coast landscape - the crystal-clear waters of the spring fed Waitangitahuna River, towering stands of Jurassic-era Kahikatea, and the surrounding untamed countryside.
On clear days, take in sweeping vistas of the mighty Southern Alps, including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
White Heron Tour Highlights
Exclusive Wildlife Experience
A unique opportunity to visit Aotearoa's only nesting colony of the rare Kōtuku with exclusive access into the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
Guaranteed
Bird-Watching
Enjoy excellent viewing and close encounters with the nesting Kōtuku, Royal Spoonbills, Little Shags, and other native birds in their natural habitat.
Ethical Photography Opportunities
Capture remarkable images and delightful birding activity from our covered elevated viewing hide, while the nesting birds remain undisturbed.
Owner/Operators With
39 Years' Experience
Tours are led by friendly, local operators with extensive knowledge of the Kōtuku and the area, including its ecology and rich cultural and conservation heritage.
Ancient Rainforest Immersion
Walk amongst lush prehistoric forest, listen to birdsong, and discover the seasonal wonders of the beautiful Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
Predator Control And
Conservation In Action
Gain insight into the sophisticated systems and conservation technology protecting the Sanctuary and its precious wildlife.
Informative Scenic Journey
Minivan transfer with interpretive commentary through rainforest, wetlands, and farmland, with stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.
Small Group,
Low-impact Tour
Small group sizes ensure a relaxed, personal, and engaging wildlife encounter, while minimising environmental impact.
Inclusive Experience
The White Heron Sanctuary Tour is suitable for all ages and abilities. Assistance is available for visitors with mobility challenges - please contact us to discuss.
All Weather Activity -
We Rarely Cancel
The rainforest is at its best on a wet day, and the Kōtuku and other birdlife can still be enjoyed from our covered viewing hide. We provide quality wet weather gear, and can operate when other activities are often cancelled.
Private, Bespoke & Large Group Tours Available
Private tours, bespoke experiences, and large coach groups can be accommodated with advance booking. Please contact us to arrange.
The White Heron Sanctuary
Visit New Zealand's ONLY White Heron Colony
