The Orokonui Ecosanctuary near Dunedin is home to some of New Zealand’s rarest endangered birds. This updated visitor guide, updated in October 2026 to reflect new admission fees, explains how to visit.
Returning to pre-human New Zealand
As tasks go, returning a 307 hectare valley to how it would have looked before humans would have arrived in New Zealand is pretty ambitious. But the Orokonui Ecosanctuary between Oamaru and Dunedin is going even further than that. It has constructed an 8.7km predator-proof fence around its boundaries, the idea being that if mice, rats and stoats are kept out, native birds can live and breed in peace.
Rare native birds at the Orokonui Ecosanctuary
And some of the most endangered native birds are carefully being introduced. Takahe and saddlebacks are amongst the most prized inhabitants, while the beak marks of the Haast tokoeka – the rarest kiwi subspecies – can be found in the earth of prime worm-hunting territory.
Kaka flit freely across the forest, noisily attacking feeding stations and one hundred or so tuatara hide away deep in the woodland away from the walking tracks.
Why a predator-proof fence is needed at the Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Many of these creatures haven’t lived wild in this area for hundreds of years. Humans – and the pests that came with them – have made life impossible for indigenous creatures. Orokonui is part of the reparations. It’s both a huge step and a relatively small one – but if native birds and reptiles can survive here, in the heart of an area thoroughly colonised by humans, it’s a massive leap forwards.
Entrance fees for the Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Entry provides access to the 307-hectare predator-free reserve for self-guided exploration. Guided tours are also available for a fee which includes the cost of day entry.
| Ticket type | Price (NZD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult day entry (Self-guided) | $27.00 | Entry to the sanctuary for self-guided walks and wildlife viewing. |
| Child day entry (16 and under, self-guided) | $13.00 | A reduced rate is available for children, allowing access to the reserve. |
| One-hour guided tour (Includes day entry) | Adult $65.00 / Child $32.50 | Suitable for most visitors; covers accessible areas like the Kākā track. |
| Two-hour guided tour (Includes day entry) | Adult $95.00 / Child $65 | Covers a wider area of the cloud forest, including steeper and more variable terrain. |
These Orokonui Ecosanctuary entrance prices were checked and updated in October 2026.
FAQ: Visitor questions about the Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Information on what to expect when visiting this protected environment for native New Zealand species.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are the chances of seeing rare wildlife? | While the sanctuary is predator-free and home to species like the Takahē and Tuatara, sightings are not guaranteed as the animals roam in a wild environment. Joining a guided tour is the best method to increase viewing opportunities. |
| Are the walking tracks accessible? | The one-hour guided tour (and the associated Kākā track) is wheelchair-friendly and suitable for a range of mobilities. The two-hour tour, however, includes steeper sections and is not recommended for visitors with limited mobility. |
| What clothing is recommended for walking? | Since the area is an exposed valley, visitors should bring warm and waterproof layers, along with good walking shoes, sun protection, and a drink bottle. |
| Can I continue exploring after a guided tour? | Yes, all guided tours include the cost of day entry, meaning visitors are welcome to continue walking the self-guided tracks until the sanctuary closes. |
Things to do near Orokonui Ecosanctuary
- Blueskin Bay – This coastal inlet near Waitati has estuary scenery, mudflats and opportunities to watch shorebirds around the changing tides.
- Waitati – This small settlement below the sanctuary has a village centre and access to the surrounding coast, making it a convenient stop before or after exploring the forest.
- Port Chalmers – This historic harbour town has cafés, galleries, heritage buildings and views across Otago Harbour.
- Dunedin Railway Station – This ornate Flemish Renaissance-style building in central Dunedin is known for its mosaic floors and elaborate exterior.
- Larnach Castle – Located on the Otago Peninsula, this historic mansion has restored interiors, landscaped gardens and views across the peninsula.
Alternative attractions
- Royal Albatross Centre – At Taiaroa Head on the Otago Peninsula, guided visits offer the chance to learn about and observe northern royal albatrosses at their mainland breeding colony.
- Blue Penguins Pukekura – This wildlife site at Taiaroa Head offers evening viewing experiences focused on little blue penguins returning to shore.
- Natures Wonders – Also on the Otago Peninsula, this wildlife tour explores coastal habitats where visitors may see seals, seabirds and other native wildlife.
- Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony – Further north along the coast, this colony offers organised evening viewing of little blue penguins returning to their nesting area.
- The Catlins – South of Dunedin, this coastal region has forest walks, waterfalls and wildlife sites, including opportunities to look for yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions. Highlights include Purakaunui Falls and McLean Falls.
More New Zealand South Island travel ideas
Other things to do in Dunedin include Otago Peninsula wildlife tours and a city highlights plus Larnach Castle tour.
If you’ve enjoyed this account of seeing rare native birds at the Orokonui Ecosanctuary near Dunedin, there are plenty more New Zealand South Island articles on Planet Whitley. These include…
– Why you shouldn’t visit Milford Sound from Queenstown.
– The shocking story of Larnach Castle.
– A road trip along the Catlins Coast.
– What to do on the Christchurch to Oamaru drive, before seeing Oamaru’s penguin colony.
– Kayaking around icebergs on Tasman Lake.
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