Tuatara Wetlands Tour At Sanctuary Mountain - Hamilton

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Tour Information

Key Details

  • Mobile Voucher Accepted
  • Free Cancellation
  • Duration: 1 Hr 30 Mins
  • Departure Time :
    1:00 PM
  • Departure Details :
    Pukeatua, Waikato
  • Return Details :
    Guided tour ends back at the Visitor Centre.
  • Cancellation Policy :
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.

Overview

Discover the secrets of the Tautari Wetland and learn why wetlands need to be restored.  Youll hear the story of the people behind the wetland; the family who gifted the land to the Trust.  Walk along the inside of our multi-species predator-proof fence and find out how we keep the wetland pest-free. 

Explore the Tuatarium with your guide for an insight into the fascinating world of tuatara - their history, life cycle and unique physical characteristics and hear about how they came to be at Sanctuary Mountain. The wetland is also home to a breeding pair of flightless takah. A species once thought to be lost forever, the takah made history when they were rediscovered 1948. Encountering a takah* for the first time can transport you to a pre-historic world!

* Viewing of takah may be restricted during their breeding season Oct - Jan

Highlights

  • Soak up the atmosphere on a walking tour
  • See native wildlife in their natural environment
  • Informative, friendly and professional guide
  • Family friendly
  • Know More about this tour

    Your tour will depart from the visitor centre at 1pm. From here, you will head down the track while listening to your guide tell you about the conservation project and the construction of our predator proof fence. Enter the wetland area through double gates and begin the adventure.

    Explore our wetland and learn how 80% of wetlands in the Waikato were drained for agricultural use, and why they need to be restored.
    You will learn about our large scale project, vision and the history of Maungatautari. Find out about the importance of the fence and our trapping and monitoring programmes.

    Go into the Tuatarium to learn about the history, life cycle and physical characteristics of the tuatara and their journey to Maungatautari. With the assistance of our knowledgeable guides keep a look out for any that maybe basking in the warmth of the afternoon.

    Our breeding pair of takah  may be visible dining on their diet of grasses, once thought to be extinct; these rare birds were rediscovered in 1948.

    Finally make your way back to the visitor centre where you can relax and take in the view and utilise our facilities. Here you will find informative displays and information about other tours and events at Sanctuary Mountain. You can also purchase refreshments and souvenirs, with all proceeds going towards conservation projects on the 'maunga' mountain.

    Inclusions

    Professional guide

    Local Taxes

    Entry/Admission - Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari

    Exclusions

    Transportation to/from attractions

    Food and drinks

    Additional Info

    Confirmation will be received at time of booking

    Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level

    Please arrive a minimum of 10 minutes prior to departure

    Children must be accompanied by an adult

    Wear sensible walking footwear

    Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately