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Bird sanctuary · Te Anau, Southland
Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
A sanctuary on the south shore of Lake Te Anau, near town, with rare native birds such as the takahē, kākā and the blue duck (whio), in aviaries open to visitors.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
The Punanga Manu bird sanctuary at Te Anau is on the south shore of the lake, a few minutes’ walk from town, on the way to the lake outlet and the Kepler Track. Maintained by the Department of Conservation and a local organisation, it displays native birds that are now rare or have disappeared from much of the country.
The most sought-after bird is the takahē, a large blue-and-green flightless rail that was declared extinct until it was rediscovered in 1948 in the Fiordland mountains near Te Anau. The sanctuary also houses the kākā, a forest parrot, the periquito-das-antípodas and the whio, the blue duck of mountain rivers.
The aviaries are along a short path, with panels about each species and conservation work such as predator control. The visit is brief and pairs well with a walk along the lakefront.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning, when birds are usually more active. At any time of year.
How to get there
It is on the south shore of Lake Te Anau, about a 10-minute walk from town along the lakefront trail, on the way to the Kepler Track.
Tip
There is no entrance fee; donations help the sanctuary. Do not feed the birds.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
Where to see takahē in Fiordland?
At the Punanga Manu o Te Anau bird sanctuary, on the southern shore of the lake, near the centre of Te Anau.
What is the takahē?
A large blue-and-green rail that cannot fly; it was thought extinct until it was rediscovered in 1948 in the Fiordland mountains.
Is there an entry fee for the Te Anau bird sanctuary?
There is no entry fee; donations are welcome.