Discover the White Heron Sanctuary: A Hidden Gem in New Zealand
Experience the unique beauty of the White Heron Sanctuary Tours, where nature's wonders await in New Zealand's pristine landscapes.
The White Heron Sanctuary Tours offer a unique opportunity to witness the majestic white herons in their natural habitat, nestled within the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's West Coast. This eco-friendly tour is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, providing an unforgettable experience amidst breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to White Heron Sanctuary Tours
- 64 Main Rd, Whataroa, 7886, NZ
- +6437534120
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes as the weather can change quickly in the region.
- Bring binoculars for a closer view of the white herons and other wildlife.
- Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for stunning photographic opportunities.
- Stay quiet and respect the wildlife for the best chance to observe the herons up close.
Getting There
-
Car
From Fox Glacier, head south on State Highway 6 (SH6) for about 24 kilometers (approximately 25 minutes driving). Follow the signs for Whataroa, and you will enter the small town. Once in Whataroa, turn left onto Main Road. Continue for about 1 kilometer until you reach 64 Main Road, where White Heron Sanctuary Tours is located. There is parking available on-site.
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Fox Glacier to Whataroa. Check the local bus service schedules for the most updated times, as they may vary. Once you arrive in Whataroa, the bus stop is typically located on Main Road. From there, it is a short walk (about 1 kilometer) to White Heron Sanctuary Tours at 64 Main Road. Make sure to confirm the bus's frequency and plan accordingly, as services may not be very frequent.
Discover more about White Heron Sanctuary Tours
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
20.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef with convenient access to glacier adventures from Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your gateway to stunning landscapes.
Robert's Point Track
22.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Robert's Point Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand with stunning views of Fox Glacier and lush rainforests.
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
23.7 km
Discover the enchanting Franz Josef Glacier Walk, a must-see hiking destination showcasing stunning glaciers and lush rainforests in New Zealand.
Victoria Falls
34.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
34.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with Heli Hiking, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning West Coast.
Glacier Helicopters Fox Glacier
35.8 km
Discover the stunning beauty of New Zealand's Fox Glacier from above with Glacier Helicopters. Experience unforgettable aerial views and adventure.
Fox Glacier Guiding - Glacier Tours & Adventures
35.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with expert-led tours and unforgettable adventures in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.
Minnehaha Walk
36.0 km
Discover the stunning Minnehaha Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
37.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of the Fox Glacier South Side Walk in New Zealand's pristine Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Lake Matheson Walk
37.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Matheson Walk, a serene hiking trail featuring stunning reflections of the Southern Alps in New Zealand.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
37.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Mt Cook
41.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Empress Hut
41.8 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View
41.8 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Fox Glacier at Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View, a top scenic spot in New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
42.5 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scenic Lookout
4.5 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene beauty at the Scenic Lookout in Whataroa, New Zealand, a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Okarito Trig Walk
16.6 km
Experience the stunning Okarito Trig Walk, where lush forests meet breathtaking views of the West Coast beaches and Okarito Lagoon.
Ōkārito
16.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Ōkārito, a hidden gem on New Zealand's West Coast, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
FRANZ JOSEF
18.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand, home to stunning glaciers and lush alpine landscapes.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
19.8 km
Explore Franz Josef Glacier with expert guides, exciting helicopter tours, and breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Callery Gorge Walk
20.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
20.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Tatare Tunnels Walk in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
West Coast Wildlife Centre
20.1 km
Discover New Zealand's unique wildlife and conservation efforts at the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef, a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
20.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's landscapes at the Alpine Adventure Centre's HELIMAX cinema experience in Franz Josef.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
20.2 km
Embark on a breathtaking helicopter journey over Franz Josef Glacier, witnessing its stunning ice formations and majestic landscapes from above.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
20.2 km
Discover the majestic Franz Josef Glacier with an unforgettable helicopter hike, where stunning views and adventure await in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Terrace Walk
20.4 km
Explore the enchanting Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer.
Canavans Knob
20.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Start Alex Knob Trail
22.4 km
Experience the breathtaking Alex Knob Trail in Westland National Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await the adventurous traveler.
docherty creek
23.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Docherty Creek, a hidden gem in New Zealand's Franz Josef region, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Essential places to dine
King Tiger
19.7 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Rainforest Retreat
19.9 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Monsoon Restaurant
19.9 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
20.0 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
20.1 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
SnakeBite Brewery
20.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
20.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
35.8 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
35.8 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
35.8 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
The Last Kitchen
35.9 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
35.9 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
High Peaks Hotel
36.8 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
56.6 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
56.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Okarito Sandfly Repellent
16.5 km
Discover the best insect repellent at Okarito Sandfly Repellent, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience on New Zealand's stunning West Coast.
Packraft New Zealand
17.0 km
Embark on an unforgettable packrafting adventure in Franz Josef, New Zealand. Gear up at Packraft New Zealand for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Real Tin Toys
17.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted tin toys at Real Tin Toys in Franz Josef, a delightful stop for collectors and families.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
20.2 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
20.2 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
Four Square Franz Josef
20.2 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Blucod
20.2 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
William Apiaries (Honey)
22.1 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
22.5 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
23.7 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
35.8 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Cafe Nevé
35.8 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
35.8 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Experience Fox Glacier
35.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
35.8 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
20.1 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
The Westhaven Motel
35.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
35.8 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
35.8 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
35.9 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
35.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Sunset Motel
36.3 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
56.7 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
58.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Woodstock Hotel
75.9 km
Experience the best of local cuisine and craft brews at the Woodstock Hotel, a cozy bar and grill nestled in the heart of New Zealand's scenic landscape.
Kaniere Hotel
77.5 km
Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
Railway Hotel
77.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Railway Hotel in Hokitika, a perfect spot for drinks, dining, and local entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
36.3 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand's Fox Glacier at Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels, your base for adventure and relaxation in stunning landscapes.
Tasman Glacier Skiing
56.6 km
Discover the thrill of skiing on the stunning Tasman Glacier nestled in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's alpine paradise.
Mount Cook Heliski
56.9 km
Discover the exhilarating world of heliskiing at Mount Cook, New Zealand's premier ski resort nestled in stunning alpine beauty.