Animal Encounter Wellington

Photograph wildlife and nature like a pro! Discover our small-group exclusive photography tours. Over three hours you’ll get unprecedented access to advice from expert photographers and view Zealandia through a whole new lens.
These tours are for keen beginners, ambitious amateurs, and accomplished photographers – anyone seeking to capture incredible once-in-a lifetime moments in nature.

Join Zealandia’s resident photographers on a stroll through the sanctuary to photograph the very best of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna. Capture raindrops on fern fronds, light shining through the forest canopy, and the striking detail and colour of bird feathers.

We will walk at a slow pace, with plenty of time for advice from our resident photographers and for you to try your best shot. As Zealandia is a wild environment, every tour will be different. Our photographers will cover different photography styles depending on what we see on the day. You will spend time at different locations throughout the sanctuary.



WHAT TO BRING: Sturdy walking shoes Warm clothing layers, sun hat/beanie, waterproof jacket Camera Tripod if you have one Water bottle and snacks

Ideal for groups and those wanting an exclusive experience, Private Tours can be arranged for individuals, couples, corporate teams, and families. Enjoy all the sights and sounds of Zealandia with an expert guide, who will lead you through the picturesque sanctuary to witness the native wildlife that is once again living on mainland New Zealand. Soak up the beautiful scenery while learning more about our unique ecological history.
A Custom Zealandia by Day tour is the ultimate way to experience New Zealand's rare and amazing wildlife! Join one of our experienced guides on an engaging and informative walk through the picturesque sanctuary to witness the native wildlife that is once again living on the mainland. With everything in Zealandia living wild, our nature-guru guides will use their knowledge of birdsong, habitats, and local flora to track down even the rarest of our unique animals.

New Zealand has some of the most unique biodiversity and advanced conservation techniques in the world. Soak up the beautiful scenery while learning more about our unique ecological history.

What You Might See:

Kākā | Kākāriki | Tuatara | Tīeke/Saddleback | Whitehead | Wētā | Kererū | Hihi | Bellbird

What to bring:

You'll be venturing into the bush so please dress to the conditions. Bring a water bottle and sunscreen.

Wear sturdy walking shoes, warm clothes and bring a waterproof jacket.