Sanctuary Mountain is meant for nature and bird lovers and those who wish to learn more about the native flora and fauna. The maintained trails provide an opportunity to see some unique biodiversity, including endangered species (when they come out of hiding). Our knowledgeable guide Sue enhanced the visit by sharing insights into conservation efforts and how they keep it a predator-free environment. Great for bird watchers, photographers and those wanting a deeper education of nature.

Loved this place. Unfortunately didn't manage to catch one of the guided walks . Could have done with an expert to identify calls and spot birds! But the bird song and peace amongst native species of plants growing as they should, untamed, was magical. Sitting at the top of the canopy tower was a delight. I was very happy to pay my entry fee knowing how valuable this conservation project is.

Visiting Sanctuary Mountain was like going back in time to when New Zealand was untouched, ruled by its beautiful native animals and plants. The absolute feat of the pest fence is an attraction in and of itself - it was wonderful to learn about the dedication of the staff who are so focused on rehabilitating this environment and native birds. My husband, fascinated by the Kākāpō, was thrilled to be here in the spot where they are trying to nurture their population. We did the longest track at the recommendation of the staff and for nearly two hours were the only humans in sight - a rare opportunity to delight in unspoiled nature.

So amazing to see this in person. We had a private night tour with an informative and delightful tour guide who was a bird lover like myself. Didn't manage to catch sight of any kakapo (the walking tracks are inside a fence which is inside the main fence) but were blown away to see glowworms in the wild. With a longer stay in the area I would definitely do a day walk.

I'm surprised this is not more widely publicised. Very accessible birdlife with some beautiful old bush. Terrain isn't challenging. Ticket office and Cafe at the beginning for basic beverages and food. Short walk to the enclosure and access through an electronic gate, then you are in. If I remember rightly it was about $20 per adult. Allow at least a couple of hours.

Staying in Hamilton and visiting from England. We love walking and nature and found Sanctuary Mountain via Google. What a wonderful day we had. Great to see native birds and awesome trees in a tranquil environment.

We paid to enter the southern enclosure and really enjoyed the time we spent in there. We walked all the tracks, climbed the lookout tower and sat and ate lunch whilst we listened to a plethora of birds all around us. We saw lots of robins, fantails, saddlebacks, whiteheads and more. Being autumn there were fungi everywhere too.

I've hiked many, many forests around New Zealand, but this one hits differently. You just know you're in as native of an NZ forest as it can get, thanks to the predator-proof fence that takes a lot of work and money to maintain. The forest is alive with the beautiful songs of many native birds. It is extra special knowing that the very endangered kākāpō parrot may be roaming around since this is their only mainland home for now. Unlike other hikes, you're not looking for any particular thing, but just soaking in the feeling, the sounds, the sights. The staff members are so passionate about NZ's wildlife. I enjoyed the stories and knowledge I learned from tour guide Liz, and desk staff, Jenny. Thank you for memories to last a lifetime in this unique corner of Aotearoa! Please come to support the conservation efforts and enjoy this magical forest.

This site should be on everyone’s travel plans. 47 km of pest-proof fence have been in place for around 15 years. Native birds and regenerating bush are therefore thriving, and you will see saddlebacks (tieke), tui, maybe hihi by the feeding stations, piwakawaka, robins, whiteheads, maybe kaka… wonderful. There is a 16 m tower so you can view treetops at eyelevel; many kilometres of well-graded tracks, and lots of signposts and information boards to keep you learning. We loved the birdsong and plant biodiversity.

Sadly we didn't see or hear as many birds as we thought we might, but that's nature for you! Also did the night tour, a little on the expensive side but enjoyable, guides were informative and we loved their enthusiasm! Tracks were all well maintained . . . Fitness level perhaps moderate in some places, but we covered every path possible in the enclosure :)