Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a significant wildlife park and nature reserve situated in Christchurch, New Zealand. Established in October 1974 by Michael Willis and his wife, Willowbank has evolved from a conventional zoo housing exotic and farmyard animals into a dedicated center for conservation and the display of native New Zealand species.

History and Development

Initially operating as a typical zoo, Willowbank's focus shifted as Michael Willis developed a greater interest in animal conservation. This led to the incorporation of more native species and rare farmyard breeds into its collection. The reserve plays a vital role in conservation efforts, notably through its involvement with the New Zealand Conservation Trust. This trust undertakes the breeding and hatching of kiwi, having successfully raised 200 chicks between 2007 and 2013 by collecting eggs from the wild to ensure successful hatching.

Notable Features and Species

Willowbank is home to 95 distinct species, categorized into three main sections: exotics, heritage farmyard, and New Zealand natives. The native section showcases a variety of endemic wildlife, including kea, kākā, North Island brown kiwi, South Island brown kiwi, Okarito kiwi, great spotted kiwi, morepork, New Zealand falcon, and tuatara. The reserve holds the distinction of being one of only three locations in New Zealand, and the sole facility in the South Island, where the takahē can be viewed by the public. They received a breeding pair of these rare birds in 2021.

A unique feature of Willowbank is its nocturnal viewing house for kiwi, which allows visitors to observe these birds during daylight hours. This facility was built from two kitset barns and was inaugurated in 1996 by Princess Anne, who also serves as the patron of the New Zealand Conservation Trust.

Furthermore, a waterway within the park is home to large New Zealand longfin eels, which visitors are able to interact with by touching and feeding them. The kea at Willowbank have also been the subject of scientific research, with studies investigating their intelligence and problem-solving abilities, including one notable case of a resident kea named Bruce utilizing pebbles as tools to aid in preening despite a significant beak deformity.

Conservation and Community Role

Beyond its public displays, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is deeply committed to conservation. It actively participates in breeding programs for native species and supports the Rare Breeds Conservation Society by housing and breeding endangered farm animal species. The reserve's role in safeguarding and promoting awareness of New Zealand's unique biodiversity is central to its mission. In 2024, Willowbank announced its purchase of the International Antarctic Centre, indicating a potential expansion of its conservation and educational outreach.