Willowbank Wildlife Reserve (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Willowbank Wildlife Reserve?
What makes it 92% Kids-Friendly: Children can hand-feed goats, join Junior Keeper, watch daily animal feedings and roam safe flat paths; toilets and picnic spots are on site, but shelter is scarce in heavy rain.
Positives:
- Family-friendly paths: Paths are wide and mostly flat, ideal for strollers and little legs.
- On-site dining: Café and shaded picnic areas let you rest and refuel without leaving the reserve.
Challenges:
- Age limits on programmes: Junior Keeper needs ages 10+ and Lemur encounters require a minimum age of 8.
- Weather-dependent: Most exhibits are outdoors, so pack rain gear and sun protection.
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 kids?
- Interactive farmyard feeding for hands-on fun.
- Guaranteed kiwi viewing in a glass-free nocturnal house.
- Up-close encounters with exotic and native species.
- Junior Keeper and bee experiences for older kids.
- Māori cultural show and Hāngi dinner for family bonding.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore all animal zones and join a farmyard feed without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Farmyard feeding:
Hand-feed sheep, goats and friendly birds with feed bags you buy at entry.
Tip: Buy feed bags early and keep them sealed to prevent spills.
Kiwi Nocturnal House:
See kiwis up-close in a low-light, glass-free enclosure from 10:30 am daily.
Tip: Visit at opening time to spot more active birds.
Lemur & Capybara Encounter:
Join a supervised session to feed or meet lemurs and capybaras.
Tip: Book your 1:30 pm slot in advance online.
Junior Keeper Programme:
Kids aged 10–14 help with feeding and basic animal care.
Tip: Arrive by 10:30 am and pack a water bottle and hat.
Ko Tāne Māori Cultural Experience & Hāngi Dinner:
Enjoy an interactive powhiri, kapa haka show and traditional meal.
Tip: Reserve at least one week ahead to secure family spots.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
- Arrive at opening: Get there at 10 am to avoid later crowds at the Kiwi House.
- Combine feeds and encounters: Plan feeding times around encounters to maximize active animal viewing.
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)?
Visit in spring to see young kiwi chicks and in summer book the Clever Little Bees session; in winter head straight to the Kiwi House for a warmer indoor start.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family entry | NZD 93 |
| Farmyard feed (2 bags) | NZD 8 |
| Lemur/Capybara encounter (2 kids) | NZD 50 |
| Māori cultural experience & dinner | NZD 205 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 356 |
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 6226Average price
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