Visit Our Animal Park

🎉 Opening January 7th, 2026 🎉

We’re thrilled to announce the opening of Wilderness Woodend Bird and Reptile Animal Park.

Join us from Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, as we open our park for visitors to enjoy a relaxed stroll and a unique wildlife experience right here in North Canterbury.

🗓 Opening Details

Opening Date: FROM January 7th, 2026
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday | 10:00am – 4:00pm
(Last admission to the animals is at 3:00pm)
Address: 42 Jelfs Road, Woodend

🦜 What to Expect

Wilderness Woodend is home to a diverse range of animal species, with a strong focus on birds — many of which are endangered or threatened species from around the world.

Due to New Zealand’s strict regulations on bird importation, it is essential that we preserve and sustain the populations already within the country.

During your visit, you’ll be able to:

  • 🦜 Stroll amongst our beautiful aviaries featuring rare and exotic bird species
  • 🦙 Meet our friendly residents, including geese, alpacas, emus, and ostriches
    You’ll also have the opportunity to hand-feed some of these wonderful animals, with food available for purchase at our entry shop
  • 🐢 Get up close with our fascinating tortoise species
  • 📚 Learn about our conservation efforts and our commitment to supporting aviculture in New Zealand

Feel free to bring a picnic and relax in our spacious grassy areas!

🌱 A Work in Progress

Wilderness Woodend is a developing project, and our journey will continue over many years. As we grow, we will establish additional pathways, expand plantings, and support more species — including New Zealand native breeding programmes.

Your visit and support help us continue to develop, improve, and grow.

♿ Accessibility & Safety Information

While some pathways are in place, the majority of the park consists of grass with uneven surfaces. Visitors using mobility aids may require assistance, or may prefer to visit again as we develop further pathways.

As this is both a breeding facility and a natural environment, we ask that children are closely supervised to ensure our animals are not startled.

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Minimum supervision ratio: 1 adult per 3 children

Please also respect that this is our home, and we are kindly allowing public access for your enjoyment.

🌏 Our Mission

Our mission is to support aviculture and herpetoculture in New Zealand by working closely with reputable breeders, wildlife parks, and zoos throughout the country.

We are dedicated to preserving and sustaining endangered and threatened species for future generations.

💲 Prices

Adults: $15 (16+ years)
Children: $5 (5–15 years)
Animal Feed: $2 each

We can’t wait to welcome you to Wilderness Woodend 🦜🌿