White Heron Sanctuary Guided Birdwatching, Whataroa
White Heron Sanctuary Guided Birdwatching, Whataroa
Considered the only nesting site for the White Heron (Kōtuku) in all of New Zealand, the West Coast of the South Island is home to the White Heron Sanctuary at Whataroa. Accessed by permit only, this protected reserve offers rare, close-up viewing of these elegant birds in their natural breeding habitat.
Guided Birdwatching, Whataroa, West Coast. NZ
Join us to visit New Zealand's only Kōtuku, White Heron breeding ground
A truly unique experience!
Join a guided visit to New Zealand’s only Kōtuku (White Heron) breeding ground and enjoy a truly unique wildlife experience found nowhere else in the country.
The majestic Kōtuku — featured on New Zealand’s $2 coin — is nationally endangered, with an estimated population of around 200 birds. Remarkably, these elegant herons have just one known breeding ground in New Zealand, located within the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve near Whataroa on the West Coast.
While encountering a single Kōtuku is rare and special, observing up to 50 breeding pairs interacting and raising their young is a spectacular sight. Visitors can enjoy reliable viewing of the magnificent Kōtuku throughout the nesting season (typically mid-September to mid-March), making this an outstanding experience for birdwatchers and photographers alike.
White Heron Sanctuary Tours is owned and operated by the Arnolds, a fifth-generation Whataroa family. Established in 1987, they are the original and only tour company permitted to access the White Heron nesting site within the Department of Conservation-administered Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, with over 38 years’ experience guiding visitors and sharing this extraordinary encounter.
The White Heron Sanctuary Tour
Your exclusive guided White Heron Sanctuary Tour begins with an informative minivan journey through private farmland and wetlands before entering the Department of Conservation-protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, where access is strictly by permit only.
Once inside the reserve, an easy 800-metre walk through lush, primeval rainforest leads to a purpose-built, elevated viewing hide overlooking the White Heron nesting site. Here, you’ll be captivated by the ethereal beauty of the pristine Kōtuku as they contrast dramatically with their vibrant rainforest surroundings.
Learn about the cultural significance of the sacred Kōtuku and gain insight into their nesting behaviour and breeding cycle from knowledgeable local guides.
Enjoy fascinating and varied viewing throughout all stages of the White Heron breeding season, with quality binoculars and a spotting scope available if required.
You’ll also observe and learn about the comical Royal Spoonbill (Kōtuku Ngutupapa) and charming Little Shag (Kawaupaka), which nest alongside the elegant White Heron in this special sanctuary.
The undisturbed Waitangiroto Nature Reserve is also a haven for many other native bird species, including Tūī, Bellbird, Grey Warbler, New Zealand Pigeon, South Island Tomtit, Fantail, Silvereye and Welcome Swallow, all commonly seen during the tour.
Discover ancient kahikatea and other native trees, along with ferns, flowers, orchids and fungi that thrive within this diverse ecosystem. You’ll also see the ongoing bird monitoring, predator control and conservation work that helps protect this unique environment and its precious wildlife.
Small group sizes, friendly expert guides, and wet-weather gear provided ensure an educational and unforgettable nature excursion — rain or shine. The tour is suitable for all ages and abilities, with assistance available where required.
Tour Times, Duration & Pricing
Book your White Heron Sanctuary Tour today and witness a natural wonder!
Tour Times: 9.00am, 12noon and 3.00pm – Prior booking is recommended.
Tour Duration: 2.5 hours return to Whataroa.
Cost including Department of Conservation permit: Adult $150.00, Child (3 to 12 yeras $75.00 Student: (13 to 17 years) $100
Tours depart from our White Heron Sanctuary Tour Office in Whataroa on State Highway 6 – 30kms North of Franz Josef and 100kms South of Hokitika.
If you’re travelling the West Coast between Hokitika and Franz Josef, this is one of the most memorable wildlife experiences you can do. Book ahead for nesting season and bring your camera — the viewing hide is exceptionally close.
Phone: +64 3 753 4120 Freephone (NZ only): 0800 523 456 Email: [email protected]
Owner/Operators: The Arnold Family Visit our Website: www.whiteherontours.co.nz/
Frequently Asked Questions – White Heron Sanctuary Tours
What makes the White Heron Sanctuary at Whataroa unique and worth visiting?
The White Heron Sanctuary at Whataroa is considered the only nesting site for the endangered White Heron (Kōtuku) in New Zealand. Located within the protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve, it offers rare, close-up viewing of these elegant birds in their natural breeding habitat, making it one of the country’s most unique wildlife experiences.
How can visitors view the White Heron in its natural environment?
Visitors can view the White Heron by joining a guided sanctuary tour, which includes a short walk to a purpose-built, elevated viewing hide within the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve. From here, guests can observe the nesting Kōtuku and other native bird species without disturbing their natural behaviour.
What is involved in the White Heron Sanctuary guided tour?
The guided tour includes an informative minivan journey through farmland and wetlands, followed by an easy walk along a well-formed track to the viewing hide. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into the White Heron, its nesting habits, conservation efforts, and the diverse native wildlife found within the reserve. Binoculars and a spotting scope are available if required.
When is the best time to visit the White Heron Sanctuary for birdwatching?
The best time to visit for birdwatching is during the White Heron breeding season, typically from mid-September to mid-March, when the birds are nesting and activity within the colony is at its most visible.
Is there just one White Heron nesting site in New Zealand?
Yes. In New Zealand, the only known nesting site for the White Heron (Kōtuku) is within the remote and protected Waitangiroto Nature Reserve near Whataroa on the West Coast of the South Island. For centuries, Kōtuku have returned to this location to breed. Outside the breeding season, individual birds may be seen in coastal or estuarine areas around the country, but they originate from this single breeding colony.
When should I visit to see adult Kōtuku in full breeding plumage?
September, October and early November are the best months to see adult Kōtuku in their full breeding plumage, displaying vivid green facial colouring and striking black beaks. As chicks begin to hatch, these colours gradually fade, though many birds retain their delicate lacy feathers throughout the nesting season.
How far away are the nesting White Heron from the viewing hide?
The White Heron nesting site is approximately 20 metres from the viewing hide, positioned directly opposite the colony across the narrow Waitangiroto River. Kōtuku often fly overhead or perch nearby, providing exceptional close-up viewing opportunities.
When do the Kōtuku chicks begin hatching?
The first Kōtuku chicks typically begin hatching in early November, with new hatchlings appearing regularly throughout November and December. This is an especially lively and fascinating time to visit the sanctuary.
How can I book a White Heron Sanctuary tour and what is the cost?
White Heron Sanctuary Tours can be booked through the official website. Tours depart at 9.00am, 12.00 noon and 3.00pm.
Prices (including Department of Conservation permit):
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Adults: $150
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Students (13–17 years): $100
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Children (3–12 years): $75
