West Coast Wildlife Centre
Corner Cron and Cowan Streets, Franz Josef/ Waiau, West Coast
One of the largest kiwi hatching facilities in the South Island, the West Coast Wildlife Centre is a must-do for visitors of all ages. Go to learn all about New Zealand’s native birds and other animals. You’ll also have the chance to see some kiwis, rarely encountered in the wild, and tuataras, an ancient New Zealand lizard species.
For travelers who seek out attractions that are environmentally and ethically sound, the interactive West Coast Wildlife Centre is a solid choice, as it’s approved by the New Zealand Department of Conservation. A highlight is getting to see the rarest type of kiwi, the rowi, up close—only about 500 remain in the wild.
Various packages and passes to the center are available, including a 24-hour unlimited pass that lets you come and go throughout the day, and a combination ticket for both the kiwi and the tuatara exhibits. Browse at your leisure, or sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour.
There’s a café and gift shop at the center.
New Zealanders call the birds “kiwis,” and the fruit “kiwifruit.” If you want to make sense to the locals, don’t call the fruit a kiwi!
The West Coast Wildlife Centre is in Franz Josef, a small settlement famous for the glacier of the same name. The easiest way to get there is by car: it’s about a 5-hour drive from Christchurch, a 4.5-hour drive from Queenstown, and a 2-hour drive from the small towns of Hokitika and Greymouth.
The center is open every day of the year, from early morning.
While you’re in Franz Josef, don’t miss visiting the Franz Josef Glacier. Depending on your budget and how active you are, admire the glacier from above on a helicopter tour, or take a guided walk on the glacier, wearing spiked shoes so you don’t slip. Alternatively, you can view the glacier from below without setting foot on it. It’s impressive from all angles.
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