Set in 80 hectares within 15 minutes’ drive of Christchurch Airport, Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand’s only open range zoo. We get you up close and personal with the animals. Imagine hand feeding a majestic giraffe; seeing NZ's only gorillas; eye balling white rhino; observing NZ's national icon, the kiwi. Over 1000 animals representing more than 90 species are displayed at the Park. Animal feed presentations occur daily and are accompanied by a presentation from a wildlife guide. Visitors can enjoy the antics of tigers, cheetah, Tasmanian devils, monkeys, meerkats and more. Two walk-through aviaries enable you to see some of NZ’s unique native birds. Orana is internationally renowned for its involvement in zoo-based breeding programmes for endangered exotic and native species. When you visit, you are supporting our conservation work. It’s a full day of fun for everyone at Orana Wildlife Park!

See Kiwi in a natural environment - there is no glass! Get close to Kea, Tuatara and other native icons. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is also home to introduced and exotic breeds. Make your own way around the park and animals will eat right out of your hand. Willowbank is open from 9.30Am daily - kiwis are able to be viewed from 10.30am until close.

A unique part of the city, the Avon River sustains a diverse plant and animal life and is a source of many recreational activities.

Riccarton House & Bush is a unique New Zealand heritage site consisting of two historic buildings, flanked by beautiful open parkland and ornate gardens, bordered by the River Avon and set against extensive native bush forest featuring Kahikatea trees up to 600 years old. This tranquil 12 hectare reserve is located just 3.5 Km from Christchurch city centre. The protected bush area has free entry and the house has a wonderful cafe. Heritage Tours run 6 days per week.