690ha of native forest
Surrounded by 14.3km of pest-proof fence
Home to critically endangered species
15km of walking tracks
Just minutes from Nelson City Centre
About
The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary is the largest fenced haven for endangered plants and animals in the South Island. Abundant with native species that both delight and surprise, visitors are able to immerse themselves in the beauty of New Zealand native bush, breathe deeply, and truly appreciate our sense of place and mauri (life force).
Our Vision
To be a nationally-recognised eco-sanctuary known for its leading conservation practices – a place where wildlife, education, and research thrive together.
Ngaro reoreo tangata, kīkī e manu
No human voices, only the twittering of birds
What’s here
Meet some of our amazing residents and our incredible flora
Our Place
Nestled in Nelson’s Brook Valley, the Sanctuary spans 690 hectares of protected native bush, surrounded by 14.3 kilometres of pest-proof fencing. This predator-free environment enables the safe return of some of Aotearoa’s most endangered species.
The Sanctuary is the largest of its kind in the South Island and the second largest in the country; it is the only sanctuary to feature primarily mature New Zealand beech forest
- 15km of walking tracks
- 5km from Nelson City Centre
- Guided day and night tours
- A fenced haven for vulnerable native species
- Home to kiwi, tuatara, the largest population of kākāriki karaka & many other endangered species
Our Story
More than twenty years ago, a group of visionary volunteers set out to restore this valley to its natural state. Today, over 20,000 volunteer hours each year sustain that dream. Since 2020, the Sanctuary has welcomed successful translocations of species including kiwi pukupuku, tuatara, and the critically endangered kākāriki karaka — now flourishing here in the world’s largest population.
- The valley was the former water supply for Nelson. More info
- Established in 2004
- Predator-proof fence completed in 2016
- Pests eradicated by 2017
- Native species translocations started in 2020
- Kiwi made the Sanctuary their home in 2025
Our Community
The Sanctuary exists thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, donors, business partners, and local supporters who return time and again. Together, you are the heartbeat of the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary — and an essential part of its story.
- Over 300 volunteers across 12 teams keep the Sanctuary running
- Our small dedicated team oversee biosecurity, conservation, operations and visitors
- The Sanctuary is administered by a board of trustees
- We are backed by our incredible sponsors and donors
Our Future
We’re building a future where more endangered species call the Sanctuary home, where visitors from near and far experience a true taonga (treasure) of the South Island, and where the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary continues to shine as a leader in conservation and community connection.
- More translocations are planned soon, including more Tuatara
- The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary Foundation Trust plans for the future with long-term sustainable funding
- Our education programs welcome over 3000 school children each year
- Our Junior Rangers are our Kaitiaki – our guardians of the future