Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari

Easy to find & very good road conditions. The guided wetland tour was amazing. Knowledgeable guide with heaps of botanical, cultural and historical expertise.

a friend brought me out here to show me what she meant about pest-proofed reserves. the information centre is pretty impressive really. very modern with plenty of information about the sanctuary itself and conservation in NZ in general. I went on a guided tour of the wetlands and that was cool. especially loved the walk through the tuatara habitat, even managed to get quite close to a couple of them too. that was pretty cool. the main mountain is a hikers dream with lots of trails through the bushland but I only got as far as the big watchtower because I wanted scenic photos more than sore legs. hahaha. if you are passing through the area its worth a stop for those interested in conservation, wildlife and scenery. be sure to drop some coins into the donation bins because these peeps do an amazing job and most of them are volunteers. really show them some love after the lockdown because they still have to work through it.

A visit out here is an experience of peace and tranquillity in nature.

An entire mountain, fenced off and protected from pests, providing a safe haven for native wildlife, this is a place every Kiwi should visit. It will be an eye-opener, reminding you of what we are losing due to 'civilisation' expanding into, and destroying, a vibrant and vital ecosystem.

The entry fee is reasonable, especially when you factor in that despite the team being almost entirely volunteers, there are still huge upkeep and maintenance costs to be covered and the Trust that runs it don't get any form of Govt handouts. It's entirely funded by charitable grants and donations from visitors and sponsors.

There is a great information centre on-site, containing a gift shop and cafe as well. Toilets are available at the centre, and one small outhouse up the mountain, so if you 'need to go' do it before you start your long walks.

While not exactly an adventure destination, it's a destination everyone should visit at least once.

Absolutely beautiful walk through the forest up to the peak of the mountain. The birds sing all the way and if you are lucky little fantails will fly along with you as you walk. It is so cute. A beautiful place that is truly New Zealand