Natureland Wildlife Trust: Connecting People and Wildlife, Protecting Futures

At the edge of Tāhunanui Beach, Natureland Wildlife Trust is a vibrant conservation centre where people meet wildlife, and passion becomes protection. As the only wildlife park in the Top of the South, Natureland plays a crucial role in breeding endangered native species like Pāteke, Kākā, and Yellow-Crowned Kākāriki for release into protected sanctuaries.

Each year, over 40,000 thousand locals and visitors connect with conservation through our zoo, education programmes, and hands-on volunteer experiences. We are proud to hold Tuatara on behalf of Ngāti Koata, sharing their cultural and ecological stories with the next generation of kaitiaki.

Natureland’s mission is simple but powerful: connect people to nature so that both can thrive. Whether it’s a child learning about our native species, a Kākā returning to the wild, or a volunteer finding purpose — our work is grounded in community, care, and long-term impact.

Philanthropic partners help us achieve bold goals: building new habitats, expanding conservation education, and growing the next generation of environmental leaders. Join us to ensure that Nelson remains a place where people and wildlife flourish together.