Discover one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences at the West Coast Wildlife Centre — voted one of Lonely Planet’s 12 must-see attractions. Located in Franz Josef, this award-winning indoor, all-weather facility is home to Little Blue Penguins (kororā), the world’s rarest kiwi, and living Tuatara. Get guaranteed daytime kiwi viewing in our nocturnal house, explore the world-class Ambassador Penguin Encounter, and meet New Zealand’s iconic “living fossil.” Enjoy interactive glacier storytelling zones, the best shopping in Franz Josef, free Wi-Fi, and Tripadvisor-recommended coffee in our café. Perfect for all ages and any weather, this is a must-do experience for wildlife ...
Highlights
From 1 hour to 2 hours
Offered in English
Non-refundable
Mobile Ticket
From 1 hour to 2 hours
Offered in English
Non-refundable
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Local taxes
Free car parking
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
DVD (available to purchase)
Meeting Points
Departure
West Coast Wildlife Centre
Return
Skip the Line: Franz Josef Wildlife Center Ticket with Optional Backstage Pass
(192) Reviews
Franz Josef
About
Discover one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences at the West Coast Wildlife Centre — voted one of Lonely Planet’s 12 must-see attractions. Located in Franz Josef, this award-winning indoor, all-weather facility is home to Little Blue Penguins (kororā), the world’s rarest kiwi, and living Tuatara. Get guaranteed daytime kiwi viewing in our nocturnal house, explore the world-class Ambassador Penguin Encounter, and meet New Zealand’s iconic “living fossil.” Enjoy interactive glacier storytelling zones, the best shopping in Franz Josef, free Wi-Fi, and Tripadvisor-recommended coffee in our café. Perfect for all ages and any weather, this is a must-do experience for wildlife ...
The centre is open every day from 8.30am. Please set aside at least 1-2 hours for your visit.
A free takeaway learning booklet is provided at no extra charge. All tickets purchased are valid for 48 hours. This means guests can come in and out of the attraction as often as they like.
During your visit, you'll be able to see live kiwi during the day inside the nocturnal house, See live Tuatara, and discover the interactive glacier attraction and storytelling areas/films as well as films and information around NZ's ambitious goal to become predator free by 2050.
You'll also have the option to go behind the scenes on the VIP Backstage Pass Tour rated “highly recommended” by Lonely Planet and Tripadvisor Traveller's Choice Award winner for 2022. A fully guided 40-minute tour behind the scenes to see our kiwi incubation and hatching and Tuatara programmes.
