World Famous in New Zealand: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne - Night Tour

It was only in 1999 that the innovative, nearly nine kilometre-long predator exclusion fence was built to enclose the 225 hectares of what is now Zealandia.

In the valley surrounding Karori’s former water reservoir, the regenerating bush is now, after an intensive programme of pest eradication, home to more than 40 species of native birds, most of them endemic, plus reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants.

It’s both an inspiring example of what can be achieved by determination, hard work and clever thinking, and a sheer delight to experience rich nature so close to the city centre.

A wander along the sanctuary’s 32 kilometres of tracks is always rewarding, but the guided tours available will deliver a richer experience. Led by knowledgeable enthusiasts, there’s one to suit every age, ability and preference; but the Night Tour is a star.

Because kiwi are nocturnal, and who doesn’t want to see our national icon going about its business? There’s no guarantee, of course, but with something like 150 little spotted kiwi living in the sanctuary, and your guides knowing what’s what, the chances are good you’ll get to see one poking through the leaf litter.

There are plenty of other creatures also active in the dark: glow-worms, tuatara, wētā, takahē, hooting ruru/morepork and rowdy kākā amongst them. With only 12 in your group, you can creep around quietly, and be close enough to your guide to ask any questions you might have.

The tour starts at twilight, so you can see the daytime birds roosting then, as it gets dark, turn on your red-light torch to see the night shift in action. Afterwards, compare notes over a cup of hot kawakawa tea.

There’s a free shuttle bus running between Zealandia and the city i-SITE. It also picks up from the top of the Cable Car.

Get the classic Wellington experience on your way to Zealandia by taking the Cable Car from Lambton Quay. At the top you’ll get great views of the city and harbour, and the Cable Car Museum here, which closes at 5pm, is well-presented and informative.

Don’t miss the video that tells entertaining stories about the 400-odd private cable cars around the city, and some of the adventures that residents have had on them.

Nearby too is the Carter Observatory where the Space Place, open till 10pm most nights, has multimedia and interactive exhibits, plus a planetarium, all telling you all about what you’ll see up in the night sky. Admission includes telescope viewings.

The Botanic Gardens are also nearby, a pleasant route to take back down to the city, though obviously more rewarding in daytime.

For the 2.5-hour Night Tour, prices are adults $85, children 12-17 years $40, less for Zealandia members. Children aged 5-11 years can go on the earlier Twilight Tour instead, running from October to March.

Doing the night tour in winter means it starts and finishes earlier.

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