a world first conservation project
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About us
In a forested valley just minutes from downtown Wellington, some of
New Zealand’s rarest native animals are thriving and living free in a
unique safe haven.
19th Century valve tower and lower lake
Karori Sanctuary is a not-for-profit community-led organisation with an extraordinary 500-year vision: to restore a corner of mainland New Zealand as closely as possible to the way it was ‘the day before humans arrived’.
The Sanctuary marked a turning point in the conservation and recovery of native wildlife on mainland New Zealand when it formed in 1995, reversing a decline that has lasted for at least 700 years. It was a radical idea that turned out to be a major breakthrough in the conservation and recovery of native wildlife on mainland New Zealand.
The Sanctuary comprises 225 hectares (approximately one square mile) of regenerating lowland forest and wetlands protected by a unique 8.6 km predator-proof fence, specially designed to exclude non-native mammals ranging from hedgehogs to possums.
It is the most accessible of New Zealand’s celebrated mainland conservation islands and is a safe haven for some of our most iconic and endangered native animals, including tuatara, little spotted kiwi, saddleback, hihi and giant weta.
Our groundbreaking achievements in urban ecological restoration; the eradication of invasive species; and the recovery of endangered native wildlife exceeded all expectations in its first ten years. We have since provided the blueprint for many other conservation projects around the country and the world over and is one of the best places in New Zealand to experience native wildlife in their natural environment. The Sanctuary provides valuable opportunities for all New Zealanders and visitors to learn about, experience and appreciate the natural heritage of New Zealand, and to help influence their behaviour in their own environment.
Our conservation and education goals are funded through donations, memberships, visitor charges, sponsorships and grants. By visiting, donating or joining as a member, you will be directly helping us to grow.
