How to Plan Your Visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, Christchurch

If you’re looking for a fun family-friendly activity to do in Christchurch, look no further than Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. This nature reserve and wildlife park is located just 5 minutes drive from Christchurch Airport and 20 minutes drive from Christchurch CBD, making it an easily accessible destination for tourists and locals alike. With so many different animals to see and things to do, planning your visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve can seem overwhelming. But fear not, we’ve put together a simple guide to help you plan your day at this amazing attraction.

What to Expect

At Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, you can expect to witness native New Zealand wildlife up close and personal. The park features a wide variety of rare and endangered animals, including the ‘Big 5’ – kea, kaka, takahe, tuatara, and kiwi. You can marvel at these animals in their natural habitats and learn about the conservation efforts that are working to protect them from extinction. One of the highlights of the park is the nocturnal house, where you can observe kiwi birds in their natural habitat with no glass to hinder your view. You can also enjoy a unique farm experience and hand-feed the animals as you wander the grounds.

Booking Your Tickets

To avoid long queues and ensure that you have a spot at the park, it’s recommended that you book your tickets in advance. You can easily book your Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry Ticket online at getyourguide.com. The ticket is priced at $33.45 per person and includes access to the park and all its attractions. Be sure to book your tickets as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Book your tickets here!

Getting There

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is located at 60 Hussey Road, Harewood, Christchurch. It’s easily accessible by car or public transport, with plenty of parking available on-site. If you’re driving, simply follow the signs to the airport and you’ll see the park entrance on the left-hand side of Hussey Road. If you’re taking public transport, you can catch the number 10 bus from the Christchurch Bus Exchange, which will take you directly to the park entrance.

What to Bring

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and clothing for your visit to the park, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle, as there are plenty of water stations throughout the park. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks, or you can purchase them at the on-site cafe.

When to Go

The park is open daily from 9:30am to 5:00pm, with last entry at 4:00pm. It’s recommended that you arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your day at the park. If you’re visiting during peak season (December to February), be sure to book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Book Your Tour Now

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is not just another tourist attraction. It’s a place where you can get up close and personal with some of the most amazing animals on the planet and learn about the importance of conservation efforts. We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit to the park and that you have a fantastic time exploring all that it has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

1. What is Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?

Willowbank is a wildlife reserve located in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is a natural haven for many of New Zealand’s unique and endangered species.

2. What kind of animals can I see at Willowbank?

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers visitors the chance to see many of New Zealand’s iconic species up close, such as the kiwi, tuatara, kea, kaka, weka, and takahe. Visitors can also see a variety of other animals, including goats, sheep, pigs, alpaca, wallabies, and possums.

3. Can I feed the animals at Willowbank?

Sadly, visitors are not permitted to feed the animals at Willowbank. However, visitors can purchase food to feed the eels, which can be found in the pond located in the reserve.

4. Is Willowbank wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the reserve caters to wheelchair users, and the majority of the reserve is wheelchair accessible.

5. Can I bring my own food and drink to Willowbank?

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drink to Willowbank. However, there are also a café and a gift shop where visitors can purchase food, drinks, and souvenirs.

6. How long should I plan to spend at Willowbank?

Visitors typically spend around 2 hours at Willowbank, although this can vary depending on how much time you spend at each animal enclosure and the animal shows.

7. Does Willowbank offer guided tours?

Yes, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers guided tours. The tours are a fantastic way to learn more about the animals and their habitats.

8. Are there any special events held at Willowbank throughout the year?

Yes, Willowbank hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including Easter egg hunts, bird shows, and kiwi releases. Check the events page on Willowbank’s website to see what events are coming up.

9. Can I interact with the animals at Willowbank?

Some animals, such as the goats and sheep, can be petted and interacted with. However, visitors are advised to ask a staff member before interacting with any animals, as some are not suitable for interaction.

10. Is photography allowed at Willowbank?

Yes, photography is allowed at Willowbank, and visitors are encouraged to take plenty of photos to remember their visit.

11. How can I get to Willowbank?

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is located in Christchurch, New Zealand. Visitors can drive and park in the reserve’s car park or take public transport to the city and walk to Willowbank from there.

12. What are the opening hours of Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?

Willowbank is open every day of the year except Christmas day. The opening hours vary slightly depending on the season, so it’s best to check the website before visiting.

13. What kind of facilities are available at Willowbank?

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers a range of facilities, including restrooms, wheelchair access, a café, and a gift shop.

14. Can I adopt an animal at Willowbank?

Yes, you can adopt an animal at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. The adoption program helps to support the work of the reserve and allows visitors to contribute to the conservation efforts for their favorite animal.

15. What is the history of Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?

Willowbank was originally established as a farm in the 19th century. In the 1970s, it was bought by the Willis family, who turned it into a wildlife reserve to conserve New Zealand’s unique species. Today, Willowbank is one of Christchurch’s most popular tourist attractions, attracting visitors from all over the world.

16. What is the entrance fee for Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?

The entrance fee for Willowbank Wildlife Reserve varies depending on age, with adult tickets costing around $28 and child tickets around $14. Check the website for the latest ticket prices.

17. Is there a discount for group bookings at Willowbank?

Yes, group bookings of 10 or more people receive a discount on their ticket price. Contact Willowbank directly to arrange a group booking.

18. Can I book tickets for Willowbank online?

Yes, visitors can book tickets for Willowbank Wildlife Reserve online through the official website. This is a great way to avoid queues and ensure you get to see all of the animals.

19. What should I wear when visiting Willowbank?

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and footwear when visiting Willowbank, as there is a lot of walking involved. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

20. Can I bring my pet to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?

No, pets are not allowed into Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, as they could pose a risk to the reserve’s animals.

21. What are some nearby attractions to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?

There are several nearby attractions to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, including the Christchurch Gondola, the International Antarctic Centre, and the Orana Wildlife Park.

Book Your Tour Now

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a fantastic destination for anyone who wants to see New Zealand’s unique and endangered species up close. With a wide range of animals to see, guided tours, and plenty of facilities, it’s a great place for families and visitors of all ages. By following these FAQs, they will make sure to have an enjoyable and informative visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

If you are a nature enthusiast and planning a trip to New Zealand, you wouldn’t like to miss visiting the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. It is a unique and stunning wildlife reserve that offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the endemic flora and fauna of New Zealand. The Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a fun-filled and educational destination that offers a diverse range of interactive, hands-on exhibits and experiences for tourists. You can enjoy a magical nature walk, interact with the animals, and learn about the Maori culture and history. Here’s how to make the most out of your trip to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.

1. Take a Guided Tour

The best way to explore the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is through a guided tour. There are many guided tours available, and each has its unique features. These tours allow you to see the wildlife and learn about it from knowledgeable guides who share their expertise. The guided tours typically take about two hours, and some of the things you can look forward to seeing are the kiwi and bird reserve, the farmyard animals, and the Maori cultural experience. You will learn about the culture, history, and wildlife of New Zealand during the tour.

2. Explore the Kiwi House

The Kiwi House is a must-visit place in Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Here, you can see one of New Zealand’s famous flightless birds, the kiwi. These birds are fascinating and unique in appearance, and you can watch them feeding, moving around, and settling in their habitat. It is a special experience to see kiwis up close as they are shy creatures and rarely seen in the wild. At the Kiwi House, you can learn more about these amazing birds and the efforts made by the reserve to protect their population.

3. Visit the Farmyard Animals

If you have kids with you, going to see the farmyard animals is a great activity. The farmyard animals include donkeys, sheep, goats, pigs, cows, and many others. Children can pet them and feed them, making it an exciting experience for them. The farmyard animals are well looked after and have a dedicated team of carers. They are well adapted to human interaction, making them comfortable with visitors around.

4. Take a Maori Cultural Experience Tour

The Maori culture is an integral part of New Zealand’s heritage. The Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers a Maori cultural experience tour that takes you on a journey through the Maori way of life. You will learn about the Maori history, language, music, and culture while experiencing various customs and traditions. You can witness a ceremonial Welcome, the Haka, and various other cultural performances during the tour.

5. Watch the Nocturnal Animals

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers a unique experience of watching the nocturnal animals of New Zealand. You can observe creatures like the kiwi, tuatara, and many others that are active at night. It is an eye-catching experience to watch these fascinating creatures up close as they usually are shy and nocturnal. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve’s nocturnal house uses infrared light to make the animals active and visible.

6. Indulge in the Nature Walk

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty. Take a stroll through the wildlife reserve’s nature walk to experience the flora and fauna of New Zealand. The nature walk takes you through the native bush walk, wetlands, waterways, and various other habitats, bringing you closer to nature. You can take in the fresh air and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, making it a perfect activity for nature enthusiasts.

7. Enjoy the Night Attraction

If you are still longing to see more of the reserve, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers a night attraction. It is an amazing experience to take the park’s guided tour at night and watch the nocturnal animals come alive. You can also enjoy the laser light show and cultural performances during the night attraction. It is an amazing way to end your day at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.

Final Thoughts

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a unique, educational, and entertaining destination that you have to experience when visiting New Zealand. Take advantage of the various hands-on exhibits, guided tours, and animal interactions to make the most out of your visit. We hope this guide has given you plenty of ideas on how to spend your time as a tourist in Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Make sure you enjoy your trip, capture the beautiful memories, and cherish the experience for a lifetime.