Wharariki Ecosanctuary

Wharariki Ecosanctuary is a protected coastal headland area near Puponga surrounded by a predator-proof fence to keep out introduced animals.The site covers roughly 2.5 hectares within Puponga Farm Park and sits along the Wharariki coastline.

The conservation project was established in January 2020 by the Department of Conservation working with HealthPost and Manawhenua ki Mohua.It was created to protect local wildlife along the coast from Wharariki Beach to Farewell Spit.

The sanctuary was established with support from local iwi and reflects traditional land stewardship values in its daily operations.You can observe how different groups work together to maintain native habitats and protect the landscape.

The area is accessible through marked walking tracks and guided tours offer information about protection programs.Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing coastal conditions.

The site has successfully relocated hundreds of young fluttering shearwater chicks from Long Island since 2022 and established new breeding colonies.This relocation program demonstrates how well the protection measures work for endangered seabirds.

Location: Tasman District

Inception: January 2020

Founders: Department of Conservation, HealthPost, Manawhenua ki Mōhua

Official opening: January 2020

GPS coordinates: -40.49920,172.69560

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:45