The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary
Just minutes from central Nelson, the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary is the South Island’s largest fully fenced eco-sanctuary—690 hectares of protected native forest, alive with rare and threatened species. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the mauri (life force) of Aotearoa as it once was.
Home to kiwi, tuatara, kākāriki and more, the Sanctuary offers over 15km of walking tracks, as well as guided day and night tours that reveal the forest’s hidden life. Every visit supports vital conservation work, species recovery, and a bold vision for a predator-free future.
Community-led and supported, the Sanctuary is a living example of what’s possible when people and nature work together.
Come for a walk, stay for the stillness—and discover the real New Zealand, protected and thriving.
http://www.brooksanctuary.org.nz/
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03 539 4920
651 Brook Street,
The Brook,
Nelson 7010,
New Zealand
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
5 months ago
Sir_Alexander_ Dane
It's one of the finest predator free areas in New Zealand. Building the fence must have been extremely challenging. Inside is a forest that is not being degraded by goats, stoats and rats. That alone makes it worth a visit. Of course there is more. The Orange-fronted Parakeet ( it has many names) was re-introduced . The population here is the largest anywhere ( I'm pretty sure). Great staff. Great Birding, really great Birding. 🐦
7 months ago
Jo Violet
Amazing little hidden bush walking tracks in Nelson city! Right on the edge of the city you can find lush NZ bush, birds, history and fun. I went by myself and enjoyed nearly 4hours inside the sanctuary Thank you to all supporting the cause Staff were so friendly Safe exploring here
12 months ago
Andrew Clancey
We love spending time at the Sanctuary, be it for the day or just an hour or so. Public transport ( the new electric bus) to the door if you prefer, and welcoming volunteer staff who are very helpful. My initial thoughts on paying an admission fee was could the charge be justified. Now after visiting almost 30 times (we bought a yearly family ticket, very reasonable) i am more and more convinced that it is money well spent. With each visit i have become further enchanted by this beautiful old growth bush walk on the edge of Nelson city and highly recommend it to all.
a year ago
Andrew Nigh
This sanctuary sets the standard for preserving native landscape and all life within. Incredible work by volunteers through the years. The tracks are well marked and maintained. HIGHLY recommend a visit!
