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.
Observe rare and majestic White Herons gathered at their ancestral breeding ground, interacting freely in the wild within their natural nesting environment.
Our exclusive 2.5-hour, fully land-based guided tour offers a unique opportunity to discover and learn about the Kōtuku (White Heron) and its only nesting site in New Zealand, located within the enchanting Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, part of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, and Te Wāhipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Area renowned for its pristine, primeval rainforest.
Join Us to Discover the Magic of the Kōtuku
About The Tour
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 protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
Surrounded by lush, ancient Kahikatea rainforest, a gentle 800-metre nature walk reveals rich biodiversity and abundant seasonal wonders, leading to our purpose-built covered hide with views across to the nesting birdlife.
From here, observe the elegance and otherworldly presence of the rare Kōtuku, and be captivated by behaviours unique to their sole breeding ground, seen nowhere else in New Zealand.
Enjoy fascinating and varied viewing throughout the Kōtuku breeding season, with each visit revealing unforgettable scenes and special moments in nature.
The White Heron Sanctuary is also home to nesting Royal Spoonbills (Kōtuku Ngutupapa) and Little Shags (Kawaupaka), providing 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.
On the return journey to Whataroa, take in the dramatic South Westland landscape — the crystal-clear, spring-fed Waitangitahuna River, towering stands of Jurassic-era Kahikatea, and the surrounding untamed countryside.
On clear days, see sweeping vistas of the mighty Southern Alps, including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
the Tour Includes
The Waitangiroto
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, unique swamp and floodplain vegetation, and, alongside the White Heron, it has been a breeding site for Royal Spoonbills since 1949 - the first recorded nesting colony in Aotearoa.
ancient rainforest
Stroll amongst primeval podocarp rainforest where towering Kahikatea, New Zealand's tallest trees, have stood for centuries. Explore the seasonal wonders and rich diversity of native flora within this remarkable layered forest ecosystem.
The Kōtuku 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, chick feedings, and maiden flights.
Learn about the Kōtuku, its life cycle, nesting habits, and its conservation and cultural significance here in Aotearoa.
The only one in New Zealand, this sacred nesting site evokes a sense of mystery and wonder as to why the Kōtuku choose to nest just here and nowhere else.
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.
Nesting Royal Spoonbills
and Little Shags
Observe and learn about the distinctive Royal Spoonbill (Kōtuku Ngutupapa) and the charming Little Shag (Kawaupaka) as they coexist in this special space alongside the elegant White Heron (Kōtuku) — three species nesting together in harmony. This shared nesting site offers excellent opportunities for observation and bird photography from our covered, elevated viewing hide.
Other Native Birdlife
The protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve is a haven for a wide range of native birdlife, including Tūī, Bellbird, Grey Warbler, NZ Pigeon, South Island Tomtit, Fantail, Silvereye, Welcome Swallow, Brown Creeper, Fernbird and Kākāriki.
Look out for resident birdlife during the tour, encounters with them add depth and richness to your Sanctuary experience.
Conservation Insights
Learn about the important bird monitoring and conservation work we do to help protect the precious wildlife here, particularly the White Heron.
See the advanced tools and methods we use to control predators, and the ongoing dedicated work that helps maintain balance within this natural forest environment.
Views and Serenity
The often perfect reflections in the tannin-rich waters of the remote Waitangiroto River capture the pristine beauty and stillness of this ancient, untouched corner of Aotearoa.
The White Heron Sanctuary Tour offers a secluded and intimate nature experience within the enchanting Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, where the wildlife, tranquil river views and the surrounding rainforest can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace, far from crowds and disruption.
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 stunning 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 impressive 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.
Tour Information and Pricing
Access to the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve and White Heron nesting site is permitted by the Department of Conservation and only available by joining a land-based guided tour with White Heron Sanctuary Tours, Whataroa.
Tour Times
9:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm
Limited spaces
Bookings are highly recommended
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
Check-in 15 minutes
before scheduled
tour time
The White Heron Sanctuary
Visit New Zealand's ONLY White Heron Colony
