Wildlife and Animal Encounters

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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