Last updated July 2026
At Natureland Wildlife Trust in Nelson, New Zealand, visitors can explore native and exotic animals while learning about local conservation efforts. This community-focused zoo and wildlife centre on Tahunanui Drive prioritises animal welfare, species recovery programmes, and public education. The facility works with partners including the Department of Conservation and Project Janszoon on breeding and release initiatives for species such as the South Island kākā. Family-friendly features include picnic areas and spacious enclosures that mimic natural habitats. The centre operates daily and offers accessible pricing for all ages.
Practical Information
| Address | Tahunanui Drive, Nelson Central |
| Opening Hours | 9:30am – 4:30pm daily (last entry 3:45pm), 364 days a year |
| Admission | Adult $21; Child (2–14 years) $11; Under 2 free; Family (2 adults + 2 children) $56; Student/Community Services Card/Gold Card $18 |
| Contact | Phone +64 3 548 6166; natureland.nz |
| Facilities | Picnic areas, play zones, animal encounters, memberships available |
About Natureland Wildlife Trust
Natureland Wildlife Trust serves as Nelson’s local zoo and conservation centre. It houses native, exotic, and domestic animals in a setting designed for close observation and education. The trust focuses on breeding programmes that support species recovery in the wider Nelson Tasman region and Abel Tasman National Park.
Staff monitor animal behaviour, health, and breeding success daily. These observations contribute to national recovery efforts for threatened birds. The centre also maintains trap lines and supports predator control projects near its location.
Partnerships strengthen outcomes. Collaborations include Project Janszoon for South Island kākā, the Pāteke Recovery Program for brown teal, Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre for yellow-crowned kākāriki, Ngāti Koata for tuatara, and the Kea Conservation Trust for kea protection. These relationships combine animal care expertise with field conservation work.
Education programmes target schools, families, and community groups. Interactive exhibits and keeper talks highlight New Zealand’s unique biodiversity and the actions needed to protect it. Memberships provide unlimited entry and help sustain ongoing work.
Conservation Programmes
Natureland participates in several targeted recovery initiatives. South Island kākā are bred on site for eventual release into Abel Tasman National Park in partnership with Project Janszoon and the Department of Conservation. Pre-release and post-release monitoring tracks the birds’ progress.
The Pāteke Recovery Program involves rearing endangered brown teal for release into suitable habitats. Yellow-crowned kākāriki are bred in collaboration with Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre to support reintroductions elsewhere.
Local projects include maintaining three kilometres of trap lines for the Battle for the Banded Rail initiative and working with the Kea Conservation Trust on nest monitoring and predator trap testing. A partnership with Ngāti Koata supports tuatara conservation and cultural kaitiakitanga.
Visiting Natureland
The centre welcomes visitors daily with consistent hours throughout the year. Enclosures allow safe viewing of animals in settings that reflect their natural needs. Picnic areas provide space for meals, and keeper encounters can be booked in advance.
Group rates and memberships support repeat visits. The site lies close to Nelson Airport and the city centre, making it convenient for day trips or short stops. Current details on events or special programmes appear on the official website.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the chance to see native birds up close and learn about the breeding programmes. Many note the clean enclosures and friendly staff who answer questions about conservation work.
Families highlight the affordable entry and picnic facilities that make a full day enjoyable for children. Reviewers often mention the educational value and the sense of contributing to local wildlife protection through their visit.
Where to Learn More
Natureland Zoo official site: Current prices, hours, animal information, and booking for encounters and memberships.
Nelson Tasman tourism page: Practical visitor details and location information for Natureland Wildlife Trust.
Natureland conservation partners page: Details on breeding programmes and collaborations with DOC, Project Janszoon, and iwi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Natureland Wildlife Trust located?
Natureland is on Tahunanui Drive in Nelson Central, a short drive from Nelson city centre and Nelson Airport.
What are the current opening hours?
The centre is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm (last entry 3:45pm) except for one closed day each year.
What animals can visitors see?
Native species include South Island kākā, pāteke, yellow-crowned kākāriki, kea, and tuatara, alongside exotic and domestic animals.
Are there café facilities on site?
There is no on-site café, but picnic areas allow visitors to bring their own food and enjoy meals outdoors.
Can visitors volunteer or support the trust?
Volunteering opportunities, donations, and memberships are available. Details and eligibility appear on the official website.
Do special events or school programmes run regularly?
Seasonal events, keeper kids programmes during school holidays, and school visits are offered. Booking is recommended as popular sessions fill quickly.
Is the site accessible for families with young children?
Family passes, pram-friendly paths, and play areas make the centre suitable for visitors of all ages.
How does a visit support conservation?
Admission fees and memberships directly fund animal care, breeding programmes, and local predator control projects.
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