Kiwi Park sprung from humble origins. An unofficial rubbish tip in the 1980’s has been grown by one local family into a hub of conservation and education, passionately preserving native Taonga species – offering the public rich experiences and precious time in nature.
Today, visitors from across the globe flock to encounter New Zealand’s iconic Kiwi Bird in the heart Queenstown, of which we have bred, raised and released over 100 throughout the years – doing vital work for the population of these incredible birds since 1986
A Birthday to Remember
This March, Kiwi Park turns 40.
Richard Wilson, General Manager and grandson of founder Dick Wilson, says:
“Celebrating 40 years is not just about looking back. It’s about strengthening our commitment to conservation for generations to come.”
Naturally, there’ll be a huge 40th birthday celebration here at the park, premiering the heartfelt ‘Thriving at Forty’ short film, made in conjunction with Shotover Creative, bringing our incredible story to life.
Attending on the night will be industry partners, such as AirNZ, and the local businesses helping bring the event together – Kinross Winery and TomTom Productions, alongside key speakers including traditional Māori speaker Willie Solomon.
So much changes around Queenstown, but the Wilson family’s passion for wildlife remains
Through education, conservation and collaboration, three generations of the Wilson family have been keeping native Taonga species front and center.
Paul Wilson, Director and son of founder Dick Wilson, said
“40 years ago Queenstown was a quiet place full of small, family-run business. And we’re still that – born and bred. Queenstown will keep growing and so will we. Our conservation work is only becoming more important.”
And that’s far from everything…
Now a thriving five-acre wildlife sanctuary including over 20 different species in the beating heart of Queenstown, reforested with native trees and shrubs, Kiwi Park is celebrating 40 instrumental years of conservation. This includes the breeding & release of South Island Kaka, Whio Blue Ducks and Campell Island Teals… Not just the iconic kiwi birds.
Beth Millican, Head of Wildlife, adds:
“In a tourist town famous for rushing adrenaline, we’re an oasis and a sanctuary – conserving and preserving the wildlife which makes Aotearoa so special.”
Plus, the site today includes the Honey-bee Centre, with its transparent beehive and free, educational honey tastings, bringing the value of flora to life.
The Future is Bright
Curiosity has not fled the coop at Kiwi Park, and a bold 2026 is looming. Turning 40 is a big deal.
This all serves to ignite a year-long events calendar, called Forty for Forty Years, highlighting four incredible decades of growth and conservation.
Visit and stay in touch to watch how our wings continue to spread, embracing nature and flying the flag for Aotearoa’s wildlife right here in Queenstown.
