Nuture, Nature, Now
Kiwi Park was not always a haven for native wildlife. Originally an unofficial rubbish tip, locals Dick and Noeleen Wilson leased the land in 1984 and began clearing the grounds with the vision of creating a wildlife sanctuary in the heart of Queenstown.
Initially conceived as a sanctuary for the iconic Kiwi bird, we quickly expanded our focus to encompass a wide range of New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna. Over the years, we have become a hub for conservation research and public awareness campaigns, highlighting the importance of protecting the country’s endemic species from threats such as habitat destruction and introduced predators.
Visitors to the park have the opportunity to learn about our conservation initiatives through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs tailored for all ages.
Today, Kiwi Park continues to play a vital role in wildlife conservation, working closely with government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities to safeguard New Zealand’s natural heritage.
The Kiwi Park was not always a haven for native birdlife. Originally an unofficial rubbish tip, locals Dick and Noeleen Wilson leased the land in 1984 and began clearing the grounds with the vision of creating an oasis in the heart of the town.
Our mission is to help protect and restore our native taonga species through managed conservation projects and education.
We celebrate the species, people and the environment we work in. We aim to educate our visitors about the importance of conservation and the need to protect New Zealand native wildlife.
We currently have over 20 native bird and reptile species at the Kiwi Park that are either here part of a managed conservation program or brought to us for rehabilitation.
Read about them here.
We are committed to conserving & protecting New Zealand wildlife & their habitats.
The Kiwi Park is fully certified with providing positive animal welfare by the Zoo and Aquarium association (ZAA) as well as being fully permitted by the Department of Conservation (DOC).
HUGE NEWS from Kiwi Park! 🪶
We`re stoked to announce the official opening of our brand-new, world-class Kea habitat, a space dedicated to New Zealand`s iconic alpine parrot. This incredible space allows both locals and visitors to get up close with our cheeky Kea, learn about their conservation, and see first-hand why protecting their future matters.
A massive thanks to the local and national communities, including @keaconservation, @queenstownnz, Zoo & Aquarium Association NZ, and @queenstownchamber for their unwavering support and for celebrating this milestone with us. We truly appreciate your contributions. Ngā mihi nui. 🤎
We can’t wait to share this space with you when you visit. Hope to see you here soon!
#conservation #kea #newzealand #wildlife #birds
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He got real quiet, real quick. 😬
One way to identify the sex of a kiwi is by its unique call.
A male kiwi will emit a series of repeated high-pitched notes, while the female kiwi will often interrupt him... with her own more guttural cry.
#kiwi #birdlife #birds #wildlife
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A big Kiwi Park welcome to Dean, our new(ish) Wildlife Manager! 👋🏽
Dean started with us back in January and has already taken to the role like a duck to water, becoming fast becoming friends with our resident wildlife.
He brings with him a wealth of conservation experience, along with fresh energy and ideas for the park. Keep an eye out for the awesome things he’s hatching up! 👀
#conservation #wildlife #newzealand #aotearoa #queenstown
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Never trust anyone who isn`t into birds 🙅🏽♀️
#wildlife #birds #conservation #nativebirds
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Farewell Al 💚
After 9 incredible years, we’re saying goodbye to our Wildlife Operations Manager, @albrowney. His dedication to Kiwi Park and passion for protecting Aotearoa’s native species has left a lasting impact on both the park and everyone lucky enough to work alongside him.
Al has been a mentor, role model, and an all-round legend of a leader. His knowledge, calm presence, and unwavering commitment will be deeply missed by the whole team.
We wish you all the very best on your next adventure, Al and thank you for everything! 🦉🌿
#wildlife #conservation #newzealand
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Do we need a pumpkin vs. carrot showdown?
Our possum, Mayhem, loves his fruit and veggies snacks 🤤
Mahem is one of our Kiwi Park possums and has a big role in our daily conservation shows, where he helps us spread awareness around the impact invasive species have on our native wildlife and the work needed to protect them.
#wildlife #conservation #newzealand #aotearoa
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Some of you may have heard the news already… 👀✨
@lumaqueenstown is bringing something really special to @queenstownnz this winter: LUMA Enchanted, a brand new after-dark experience set to take place right here at Kiwi Park.
Their amazing crew will be transforming a dedicated area of our park, carefully designed to have minimal impact on our wildlife.
We’re stoked to be able to share the space that will allow them to create this magical experience and even more excited for people to see the park in a whole new light. 🌟
It’s a rare opportunity to explore Kiwi Park after dark, and we’re working closely with the LUMA team to ensure the care and welfare of our wildlife is a priority throughout their event.
More info to come soon, but if you’re curious, you can sign up for updates and early (kiwi) bird access at their website.
#queenstown #wildlife #Newzealand #visitqueenstown #aotearoa
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Clever girl! 🦜🧠
We’re seriously impressed with our girl Pebbles. With some very clever enrichment strategies, our wildlife team has managed to teach her how to engrave her own name, and she’s already showing off her skills on this courgette!
Video to come...
#wildlife #conservation #birdlife #newzealand #aotearoa
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The Three Cheeses - pt. 2 🧀
Our show rats, Pecorino, Halloumi, and Brie, play a vital role in our daily conservation shows, helping us highlight the impact of introduced species on Aotearoa New Zealand’s native wildlife.
While pest species pose a serious threat to our ecosystems, these wee guys are still part of our Kiwi Park whānau and do an amazing job educating visitors about the challenges our native species face. 🐀
#wildlife #conservation #newzealand #wildlifeconservation
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Felt cute, will post now!
Just some recent snaps of some of our wildlife that we thought some of you might like to see. 🤎
#wildlife #queenstown #conservation #birds #newzealand
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All the conservation work we do is funded by visitors, donations and souvenir sales.
We appreciate your support!
Ngā mihi