A SAFE HAVEN FOR NATIVE WILDLIFE AND THE CLOSEST ​WILDLIFE SANCTUARY TO PICTON

Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary is a community project which aims to restore a 40 hectare 'mainland island' in Picton harbour.  The Sanctuary offers amazing wildlife viewing, engaging school or group visits and volunteering opportunities.   Once a food collection site for Maori, Kaipupu translates from ‘kai’ meaning food and ‘pupu’ a type of shellfish.   The 2.7km  circular walking track will take you through recovering native bush, old growth forest and our restoration zone.  The bush clad hills are home to many of New Zealand’s unique native wildlife including tui, korimako (bellbird), piwakawaka (fantail), kereru (NZ woodpigeon), korora (little penguin), tree weta, raukawa gecko and waiharakeke grass skink.  New Zealand fur seal can often be found lazing on the jetty over autumn and winter.  

Visit the Sanctuary

Only ten minutes by boat from Picton, the Sanctuary can be accessed by private boat, water taxi or kayak.  It is free to visit but donations are greatly appreciated.   Allow 
​1.5 - 2 hours to leisurely walk around the 2.7 km circular track.
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Education at Kaipupu

Experience the Sanctuary accompanied by our trained educator.  Students will learn about the Sanctuary, our processes, conservation and how they can help. 
Our guided tours also offer a unique insight into the Sanctuary, contact us for more info.​
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Get involved

Help Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary become pest free by volunteering or join up as a member and keep up to date with all the latest news in our Sanctuary newsletter.​​
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"A project for the community, by the community”

- BARRY MAISTER, PATRON

Contact Us

If you would like to find our more about Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary please get in touch with us.  You can also find us at our shop/office at 14 Auckland Street, Picton