RECREATING A LOST WORLD

Zealandia is a natural reserve 2km from downtown Wellington where man has given threatened species of birds, reptiles and insects a helping hand.  It aims to showcase New Zealand’s native landscape and wildlife as it would have been before man began to introduce mammalian predators around 700 years ago.  But this is not a zoo; the only fence here is to keep predators out and if you want to spot the abundant wildlife you have to use your eyes and ears to find it.

The sanctuary has been established in a valley that was originally developed to provide Wellington’s water supply.  But as it is now known that the upper dam straddles an active earthquake fault line, the reservoir has been partially drained to avoid the possibility of a catastrophic flood down the Karori valley into Wellington city.

Upper Lake

 Lower Lake

Upper Dam

Having been purged of non-native species great care is taken to avoid breaching eco security.  Our bags were checked on entry in case we were unwittingly carrying malicious stowaway rodents! Once screened, visitors can then wander freely through the many trails in the reserve.

The beauty of the reserve is that you have to work at viewing the birds, reptiles and insects.  Whilst the various feeders are a helpful focus of activity and staff are on hand on the main trails to help you, it is rewarding to locate and identify species yourself.

Tuatara

The stars of the show are undoubtedly the Kaka, a large forest parrot, the melodic Bellbird, the Hihi or Stitchbird and Shag.  But there are many others including the fantastic Tui with its wonderful calls that always makes us smile and will be the signature tune of our tour.

Kaka

Shag

We were fortunate that our visit to Zealandia was enhanced by the opportunity to spend the day with our Wellington resident niece.  Her previous experience and knowledge of the reserve was invaluable in getting the best out of our day.  It was also great to see first-hand her professional photographic skills in action.

Now at the southern tip of the North Island, we must next voyage across the treacherous Cook Straits to reach the South Island.