FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do we get to Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary?
You can only access the Sanctuary via the water. There are a number of water taxi companies who offer transport options to the Sanctuary. Visit here to see a list of providers. If you have your own boat then you can visit Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary anytime.
How much does it cost to visit Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary?
The Sanctuary is free to visit, however we do appreciate donations. You can donate here or drop a donation into the donation box on the Sanctuary.
What is the walking track like?
The track at the Sanctuary is circular and 2.7km in length. There is a slightly steeper uphill section from the jetty area to main track (2 minutes climb) before gently rising to the northern lookout . The northern lookout has a large picnic table with plenty of seating. It is a great place to stop and enjoy your lunch but please remember to take all rubbish with you when you leave.
After the lookout the track is predominantly downhill with some slight inclines.
The track is a clay track and is suitable for mountain buggy style prams but is not wheelchair accessible. In winter the track can be slippery in areas and good footwear is recommended. Allow 1 - 2 hours to complete the loop track, however if you enjoy photography or stopping for the views please allow a bit more time.
After the lookout the track is predominantly downhill with some slight inclines.
The track is a clay track and is suitable for mountain buggy style prams but is not wheelchair accessible. In winter the track can be slippery in areas and good footwear is recommended. Allow 1 - 2 hours to complete the loop track, however if you enjoy photography or stopping for the views please allow a bit more time.
Can we take our dog for a walk at the Sanctuary?
Dogs are not permitted on the Sanctuary, this is to ensure that our native wildlife (particularly ground based animals) are kept safe.
We have found an injured bird, what do we do?
Call DOC or MPI and they will tell you what to do next. If you don't know if an animal is native, still call either DOC or MPI.
For 1 or 2 sick, injured or dead animals
Ring the DOC emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
For whale or dolphin strandings
Ring the DOC emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
For a group of 3 or more sick, injured or dead animals
Ring the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66.
Keeping wildlife
You cannot keep wildlife without a permit from DOC, see the DOC website for more information.
For 1 or 2 sick, injured or dead animals
Ring the DOC emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
For whale or dolphin strandings
Ring the DOC emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
For a group of 3 or more sick, injured or dead animals
Ring the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66.
Keeping wildlife
You cannot keep wildlife without a permit from DOC, see the DOC website for more information.
I am keen to help out at the Sanctuary, who do I talk to?
We are always looking for more help with the various jobs at the Sanctuary. If you want to learn a bit more about how you can help pop into our office at 14 Auckland Street, Picton or get in touch here.
