Almost two decades in the making, the best kept secret in Hawke's Bay has opened its doors to the public! Join us at Cape Sanctuary, New Zealand's largest privately owned and operated 'mainland island' wildlife restoration project. You'll step behind the scenes and experience our incredible conservation story for yourself.
Your three-hour journey begins at our native tree nursery, from there you will travel in our off-road vehicles through the stunning Ocean Beach Wilderness Area, helping to feed endangered takahē and kākāriki along the way. Your tour continues with morning tea at a charming boutique hut, where you can take in panoramic views of native forest, farmland, and towering sand dunes.
The final part of your tour takes you to the 'jewel in the crown' 3ha Seabird Site, perched atop the cliffs overlooking Ocean Beach. Here, you'll learn about our sea-bird restoration project and see native wildlife like tuatara, giant wētā, tuī, and many more as you embrace our vision of a pest-free Aotearoa.
Explore a special corner of Hawke's Bay and see firsthand the lasting legacy we're building for future generations!
Total time: 3 hours
Availability: This tour is available year-round, weather permitting.
To book your tour, just send us an email at tours@capesanctuary.co.nz. Because we are a wild site, every visit is completely different and in the hands of nature. While we can't promise what you'll see, you have the incredible opportunity to spot the wildlife we've mentioned, plus plenty more along the way.
