Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

“A great place to visit, but don't expect it to be a quick visit. It has a large acerage to cover with lots of different livestock. The animals seem to be well looked and maintained. Clean and healthy. It Main draws are the Kea's and Kiwi's, that are hard to spot in their nocturnal habitats. Native and overseas animals of various species that are well worth checking out. Natives include Weka, Kea, Kiwi, Ruru and possum's. Oz cuties are Wallabies, and Emus. Some others are monkeys, Lima's, Capybara, iguana, chickens, farmyard animals like horses, donkeys, goats, pigs, cattle, sheep, alpaca. Water dwellers eels, trout, swans, waterfowl, and ducks galore and some tortoises. The on-site Cafe is a great place to recharge and rehydrate. There are picnic areas that are well situated through the park. Get there early to get a parking spot.”

“Absolutely fun experience seeing some of the amazing animals that New Zealand has to offer. I was a big fan of the farm area where we could interact with and feed the animals. I especially loved finding out that they get to roam about the paddocks once the park is closed. The kiwi house was a great experience and I felt very accomplished being able to spot all the kiwis (even if it did take a while haha). You have the option to buy 3 different types of food (bird, farm and eel) to add on to your experience. The food is only $4 each and you get a decent amount! Please make sure to visit and support this incredible park!!!”

“We had such a great day at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve these school holidays! I went with my kids and met up with a friend and her daughter, and it was the perfect place for a fun, easy day out. We started with lunch and a coffee at the cafe and then took our time making our way around and exploring everything. The kids absolutely loved feeding the eels, that was definitely the highlight! Such a beautiful, well-kept reserve with friendly staff and heaps for the kids to see and do. Highly recommend for families and playdates. We’ll definitely be back!”

“That horse loves me, I'm sure. We had a nice time in the barnyard feeding the animals. The eels, the emu, the kunekune pigs, the kiwi and the kia were all stars with a strong supporting cast. Plenty to see, without getting tired out. The enclosures feel natural for the most part. We had no little kids with us and we still had a fantastic time.”