Translocations
Bringing endangered species home to Nelson
Since the inception of the Sanctuary over 20 years ago, the aim was to bring many of the endangered species back home to the Nelson area. Translocations are a critical part of the reintroduction process. Since being declared pest-free in 2017, we have translocated 5 key species into the Sanctuary.
Translocations only happen thanks to the dedicated effort of many organisations and people. Department of Conservation and iwi are key, as are funding partners and translocation partners e.g. Save the Kiwi. Each translocation into the Sanctuary was supported by multiple parties. View each of our translocation information pages and videos to find out more.
Translocation refers to the capture, transport and release of individuals of a species from one location to another. A translocation is an integral part of reintroduction.
Each translocation is different but every one is meticulously planned. Planning starts years before and a permit must be secured. The comfort and care of the wildlife is key to the whole process and we take great care in minimising any stress on the animal.
Factors that contribute to a successful translocation include handling the wildlife with care, selecting healthy individuals, keeping the animals well-fed and watered, and minimising stress and overheating during transport and release.
View our individual translocation pages for more information on the specific processes for each species.
What’s here?
Meet some of our amazing residents and our incredible flora. Read our species pages and download our species PDFs.
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There’s something special about spotting a ruru (morepork) in the quiet of Brook Waimārama Sanctuary 🌿
These striking moments were captured by photographer Chris Bernard while exploring the Sanctuary. Ruru are often heard and occasionally seen on our guided night tours.
Ruru are known for their iconic “more-pork” call, heard throughout the night, as well as a repetitive “quork-quork”, a rising “quee” call often mistaken for kiwi, and a yelping call similar to that of the little owl. 🦉✨
Learn more about ruru on our website:
🔗www.brooksanctuary.org.nz/nature-wildlife/ruru
@chrisbernard1520
#ruru #nelsontasmannz #brookwaimaramasanctuary #birdsnz
Apr 14
A rare and special sighting on one of our night tours — a kiwi pukupuku out exploring under the cover of darkness 🌙
Our night tours have been incredibly popular, with many groups hearing kiwi calls throughout the sanctuary, and on lucky nights, even spotting one in the wild like this.
We currently have limited spaces available for this Saturday and Monday night tours.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the sanctuary after dark — it’s something truly unforgettable.
Thanks to the team @mdoutdoorsnz for the new head torches.
Book now to secure your spot. 🎟
@nelsontasmannz
#kiwi #kiwipukupuku #wildlifeNZ #nzwildlife #conservation #sanctuary #nighttour #naturelovers
Apr 8
Rain doesn’t stop nature… it awakens it 🌧️🌿
At Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, wet weather brings the forest to life — leaves glisten, streams flow stronger, and the sounds of birds echo through the valley. It’s a different kind of magic.
Reconnect with nature, slow down, and experience the sanctuary in its most vibrant state.
Don’t wait for sunshine — some of the best moments happen in the rain. @nelsontasmannz
#brookwaimarama #ReconnectWithNature #RainyDayMagic #NelsonNZ #natureescape
Apr 8
🌿🐾 We’re OPEN today! 🐾🌿
Looking for something fun to do this Easter Monday? Come on out to Brook Waimārama Sanctuary and dive into nature! 🌞
Wander our beautiful tracks, listen for birdsong, and see what you can discover along the way. It’s the perfect excuse to get outside, stretch your legs, and enjoy a little adventure.
Fresh air, native wildlife, and good vibes are waiting… see you soon! 💚
Apr 5
🐰🌿 Easter at Brook Waimārama Sanctuary 🌿🐰
Looking for something to do over the Easter break? We’ve got you sorted.
We’ll be open all Easter weekend from 9am–5pm, and on Easter Monday from 10am–4pm.
Bring the whānau along to enjoy the beautiful surroundings—and don’t miss our kids’ Easter scavenger hunt, a fun activity to keep the little ones entertained.🐣✨
It’s a great chance to get outdoors, explore nature, and celebrate Easter with us.
We look forward to seeing you here!
#brookwaimaramasanctuary #easterholidays #nelsontasmannz #nature @nelsontasmannz
Apr 2
Summer Photography Competition Winners 🌞📷
We’re excited to announce the winners of our Summer Photography Competition:
📸 Amateur Winner: Diane Chandler — the tallest moss in the world, Dawsonia superba
📸 Junior Winner: Sam Moynan — a beautiful image of a tomtit | miromiro
A huge thank you to everyone who entered. We received 21 stunning photos from 8 photographers and loved seeing the Sanctuary through your lenses.
Prize packs include:
Amateur
🎟 A family ticket to a guided night tour
📰 A feature in our newsletter and on social media
Junior
📷 An instant camera
📰 A feature in our newsletter and on social media
🖼 Prints of both winning images will also be displayed at the Visitor Centre.
@nelsoncityframers will be producing these beautiful images as prints, to be awarded to Diane and Sam.
Now it’s your turn! Entries for the Autumn Photography Competition are open from 1 March - 31 May 2026!
Head out on the tracks, keep an eye out for those special ngahere moments, watch for fungi, and start snapping — we can’t wait to see what you capture.
#BrookWaimāramaSanctuary #Whakatū #NelsonNZ #naturephotography #springinthenativeforest #summerinthenativeforest #conservation
#tomtit #naturephotography #summerinthenativeforest #conservation
Apr 1
