Wildlife and Animal Encounters

We’re home to the world’s smallest penguin. And you don’t have to travel too far to find farm tours, bird encounters and more! You may even be lucky enough to spot dolphins, seals and whales off the coast.

  • Holding a Harrier Hawk at the Raptor Experience
    The Raptor Experience

    An educational and hands-on encounter with two of New Zealand’s Raptors - The New Zealand Kahu or Harrier Hawk and the Little Owl. Learn about the lives of our native raptor birds, their ways of hunting, what they feed on, dangers to their safety and their cultural significance. This is a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent birds under the guidance of their experienced handler.

    Phone: 0274 533 484

  • Sheep Shearing at Geraldine Farm Tours
    Geraldine Farm Tours

    Experience an authenic, intimate and up-close real working New Zealand farm set in the South Canterbury foothills. Available for groups of 12 or more.

    Phone: 03 692 2900

  • Little Blue Penguin at Caroline Bay, Timaru
    Timaru's penguins

    Timaru's Caroline Bay is home to a colony of the world's smallest penguin - The Little Blue Penguin/Kororā. Over the summer months (October - March) view them returning from a day's fishing along Marine Parade at the southern end of Caroline Bay. It's worth putting the kids to bed late and what's even better, this is a FREE activity.

  • Girl at Famlan Park
    Famlan Farm Park

    Famlan is an animal farm park that's an ideal outing for animal lovers of all ages. Take along a picnic and make a day of it.

    Phone: 021 458 583

  • Sheep at farmyard holiday park
    The Farmyard Holiday Park

    This is more than just a holiday park, it's a farmyard you can visit during the day. They have animals including Wallabys, Donkeys, Alpacas, Llamas, Goats, Kune kune pigs, Highland cattle, Cows, Sheep, Guinea pigs, Rabbits, Chickens, Possum, Peacocks, Water buffalo and cockatoo Polly will welcome you in reception

    Phone: 03 693 9355

  • White ducks at Shearers Quarters
    The Shearers Quarters - Cafe and more

    The Shearers Quarters provides a fun day out for the whole family. Enjoy a meal at the cafe, play mini golf, meet the farmyard animals or explore the crazy maze.

    Phone: 03 615 9043

  • Bat tree signage
    Native bats

    South Canterbury is home to an important population of critically endangered bats.

    Phone: 03 688 4452