Zealandia

New Zealand really likes to trick me into going for hikes.

Still without a job and keen to take advantage of a good deal, I went to the Zealandia ecosanctuary during its recent “open weekend” promotion with the Wellington Zoo. For two days at the end of the May, the two attractions allow entry for just a $2 NZD donation (or about $1.40 USD.) The entire donation goes to the Wellington Zoo Conservation Fund, which helps save animals in the wild.

While it is possible to do both attractions on the same day, I want to express the two are vastly different. On the day I checked them out it was overcast, a tad chilly and had just rained. These conditions are fine for the zoo, which is paved, however, that is not the case for Zealandia.

First and foremost, it is important to remember that Zealandia is an ecosanctuary, not a zoo. The entire attraction is designed to restore the region’s forest and freshwater to their pre-human state. This means, unlike the zoo, much of the area is unpaved and designed to encourage the growth of large trees, plants, and birds.

I tell you this because Zealandia is absolutely worth the trek, but you need to be prepared to what you’re getting into. I once again did not do proper research before going and was not wearing hiking gear. Furthermore, because it had just rain, much of the experience was muddy and slippery.

However, the chance to see some of the world’s most unique birds and plants was totally worth my muddy Converse sneakers. They say New Zealand is unlike anywhere else in the world, and I can tell you that is 100% true.

Now, I say this having not seen many of the bird species that live in the sanctuary. This is once again, my fault and not the attraction’s, as I should’ve been prepared with things like binoculars and patience. The animals are living like nature intended, and are not confined to any particular space within the area. So you have to be prepared to take your time and pay close attention to the branches above and around you.

What I did see, though, was quite impressive. New Zealand Pidgeons or keruru are quite possibly the largest in the world. (Or perhaps they were able to grow so large because they were in their native environment.)

The other birds were equally unique, especially the Takahe, a bird originally from the South Island and unique to New Zealand. The biggest flightless bird in the country, with its beak, and dark blue head, they are quite a sight to see. Previously thought to be extinct,  the species was discovered living in a remote valley in 1948.

And this place is not just about birds. The plants and the scenery are a treat as well, even when they are not in bloom. And since 80% of the plants and trees native to New Zealand are unique to the country, visiting somewhere like Zealandia is ideal for travelers with a limited time, or perhaps, more interested in doing indoor activities.

Quick Overview:

Price: Adults: $18.50 NZD, Children ages 5-17: $10 NZD, 5 and under: Free

Hours of Operation:  9am to 5pm daily (only closed on Christmas Day)

Good for: Solo travelers, hikers, adventurists, nature-lovers, families with kids old enough to walk