Willowbank Wildlife Reserve (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?
What makes it 88% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free, paths suit strollers, changing tables and highchairs are provided; some gravel areas and sudden animal noises may unsettle infants, so parents need extra care.
Positives:
- Free baby entry: Children under 5 enter free with a paying adult.
- Baby-friendly facilities: Wide, flat paths, baby-changing rooms and highchairs make visits easy.
Challenges:
- Weather-dependent paths: Paths get muddy after rain; bring suitable shoes and rain cover.
- Limited baby-specific activities: Interactive encounters require minimum ages; stick to general viewing and petting areas.
What is Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?
- A wildlife reserve and breeding sanctuary in Christchurch dedicated to conservation of native and exotic species
- Established in 1974 as a kiwi breeding base and endangered species protection centre
- Encompasses zoned habitats hosting over 100 species—from New Zealand’s native birds and reptiles to farmyard and exotic mammals
What is so special about Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for with baby?
- Baby enters free and only adult tickets are needed
- Stroller-friendly paths connect all main exhibits
- Included Kiwi Nocturnal House for guaranteed kiwi sightings
- Farmyard petting with affordable feed bags
- On-site café and picnic spots with highchairs and umbrellas
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: A relaxed pace with a baby to explore all three wildlife zones, visit the Kiwi House and use baby facilities without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Kiwi Nocturnal House:
Guaranteed kiwi viewing in a dim, glass-free enclosure.
Tip: Visit on opening to see kiwis when they are most active.
Farmyard Petting:
Hand-feed sheep, goats and chickens with a feed bag.
Tip: Buy a $4 feed bag at the entrance and feed early to avoid crowds.
Daily Animal Feedings:
Watch scheduled feedings of otters, eels, gibbons and kea.
Tip: Pick up the printed feeding schedule at guest services on arrival.
Café & Picnic Areas:
Enjoy a snack in the café or bring your own picnic for outdoor benches.
Tip: Request a highchair in the café and borrow an umbrella from reception.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
- Visit Kiwi House early: Arrive on opening for the best chance to see kiwis before crowds arrive.
- Follow the stroller loop: Use the main flat circuit through all three zones to cover highlights with minimal detours.
Reviews of Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Jayjay Duncan
Absolutely amazing. Great experience for all young and old. My daughter loved it. Being able to be amongst alot of the animals makes for a great time. I would frequent here over Orana Park anyday
Angelaa Wong
Love it. If I have chance to come back Chc again I’ll definitely visit again. With parking! You can get the food for the animal. Such a great place for both adult and kid. The cafe serves good food too!
Peru Karki
Love visiting every time! This time did the lemur encounter and it was awesome! They were very gentle when taking the food from us. The keeper was amazing and had some great facts to share. Feeding the eels, the farmyard and going through kiwi habitat are other favourites. Been going often for the past 8 years or so and totally recommend the child's annual membership so they can go with any adult ...
Kunchit Piyavechviratana
The zoo has an atmosphere similar to an open-range zoo, featuring a wide variety of New Zealand animals. Ducks can be seen wandering along almost the entire path. It’s a great place to take children to learn and explore.
Linda Yeoh
Loved the experience. Visited other wildlife parks and so far one can beat Willowbank. The animals are all well taken care of. The experience of feeding them especially the eels were 💯 My daughter enjoyed it too. Food at the cafe was also pretty decent! Price is reasonable too.
When is the best time to visit Willowbank Wildlife Reserve (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
In spring (Sep–Nov) see newborn lambs in the farmyard. In winter, paths can be wet—bring warm layers and rain cover.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult entry tickets | NZD 73 |
| Farmyard feed bag | NZD 4 |
| Café snack | NZD 15 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 92 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Address: 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand
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About Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 3 359 6226Explore Popular Things to Do
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