Queenstown: Kiwi Park Entry Ticket & Kiwi Viewing Times

Summary

Meet New Zealand’s kiwi at Queenstown’s wildlife sanctuary

You’ll step into Queenstown’s Kiwi Park for close-up kiwi viewing led by local wildlife guides, see rare tuatara during the Conservation Show, and wander peaceful bush trails alive with native birdsong. Flexible entry times make it easy—and that hush in the kiwi house? It lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We wandered into Kiwi Park Queenstown a bit earlier than our booking—turns out you can just show up and start exploring, which felt easy. The air smelled like wet leaves (classic New Zealand after a morning shower), and there was this gentle hum from the cicadas. I’d read about seeing a real kiwi bird before, but honestly didn’t expect much—I mean, they’re famously shy. But then one of the keepers, Sarah, quietly gathered us for the Kiwi Encounter. She dimmed the lights in this hush-hush way and suddenly there it was: a round little kiwi poking around in the shadows. Its feathers looked more like soft fur than anything feathery. I caught myself holding my breath.

Afterwards, we drifted outside to catch the Conservation Show. It wasn’t flashy or anything—just a few benches under some trees and a bunch of locals chatting with the keepers (who all seemed to know each other). They brought out this ancient-looking tuatara (I swear it blinked at me), and a cheeky kea who tried to untie someone’s shoelaces. At one point Li, our guide for that bit, asked if anyone could pronounce “whio” properly—Li laughed when I tried to say it in Māori. Probably butchered it but nobody minded.

The park itself is smallish but feels tucked away from Queenstown’s buzz—lots of native bush and these winding gravel paths where you might spot a takahe or hear kids giggling near the ponds. There’s an audio guide if you want it, but I mostly just listened to the birds and watched families wander past with ice creams. We stayed longer than planned because it felt peaceful somehow—even with groups coming through for each kiwi viewing slot. I still think about that quiet moment in the dark kiwi house; something about seeing such an odd little bird doing its thing right there in front of you sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Kiwi Park and Wildlife Shows

• Arrive at Kiwi Park
• Attend Kiwi Encounter session
• Watch Conservation Show
• Explore Kiwi House exhibits

Top questions

What are the kiwi viewing times at Kiwi Park Queenstown?

Kiwi Encounters run at set times throughout the day: 10am, 11am, 12:15pm, 1pm, 2:15pm, 3pm, 4:15pm & 5pm from October to April; and 10am, 11am, 12:15pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3:45pm & 4:30pm from May to September.

Is Kiwi Park wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Kiwi Park Queenstown is wheelchair accessible.

Are children allowed at Kiwi Park?

Yes, infants and small children can visit; prams or strollers are welcome.

What animals can I see at Kiwi Park Queenstown?

You’ll find over 20 species of native wildlife including kiwi birds and tuatara.

How long does a visit to Kiwi Park take?

You can explore at your own pace; most visitors spend between one and two hours here.

Is there public transport to Kiwi Park Queenstown?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

When are Conservation Shows held?

The Conservation Show runs daily at set times: typically 11:30am & 3pm in winter; extra shows added in summer months.

What’s included

Your ticket covers flexible entry to Kiwi Park Queenstown with access to all scheduled kiwi viewing sessions led by local wildlife staff. You’ll also get admission to the Conservation Show plus use of an audio guide if you want it—just bring comfy shoes for wandering those bushy trails.