Our People
Orana Wildlife Park employs 60 people and is supported by a dedicated group of around 70 volunteers.
About Us
Open Daily* 10:00am – 5:00pm
Open Daily* 10:00am – 5:00pm
Today's Timetable
Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand’s only open range wildlife park. It is owned and operated by Orana Wildlife Trust, a registered charitable trust (CC31118). At its core, Orana Wildlife Park is a sanctuary. For wildlife, for people, and for connection.
Our Purpose Statement:
We are a thriving haven for our animals and people, providing fun, care and connection with nature.
Orana Wildlife Park’s Envisioned Future
- We will be an iconic wildlife park providing inspiring leadership in conservation, education and tourism.
- Through strategic partnerships with iwi, communities and global connections we create thriving ecosystems for our animals and future generations.
- We are building financial self-sufficiency to sustain our legacy.
Key Memberships
Orana is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Park is also a member of our regional association the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA). Orana Wildlife Park is proud to be a fully accredited by the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA). As a member of ZAA, Orana undergoes evidence-based, rigorous assessments every three years, ensuring high standards of positive animal welfare, conservation, and education.
Snapshot of our key work
- Orana provides unique opportunities for our diverse visitors to have close proximity to awe-inspiring native and exotic wildlife, and connect with nature, fostering physical, emotional and social well-being for the community.
- The Park is a contributor to economic growth helping drive visitation to Christchurch and Canterbury.
- Orana contributes to conservation outcomes through DOC breed for release programmes for endangered native species, international breeding programmes for endangered exotic species and our grounds provide a suitable habitat for native fauna.
- Orana delivers curriculum-linked environmental education programmes to Canterbury school children, conservation education to all visitors and offers volunteering opportunities for the community.
Highlights of a Park visit:
- Hand feed majestic giraffe
- Meet Aotearoa/New Zealand’s only gorillas
- Encounter kiwi, New Zealand’s national icon
- Stroll into lush aviaries to meet endemic native birds including kea, whio/blue duck, kererū/wood pigeon, kākāriki, korimako/bellbird and more.
- Eyeball mighty white rhino
- Marvel at the beautiful cats including lions and tiger and cheetah
- As an open range zoo, Orana is home to many hoofstock species including addax, waterbuck, nyala and zebra
- Scheduled daily presentations give visitors the chance to engage with our team and learn about the species in our care.
Our History
Since 1976, Orana Wildlife Park has helped protect endangered species, deliver nationally significant breed-for-release programmes, and inspire visitors through education and unique wildlife experiences. This long-term work depends on our community, visitors, audience and partners who share our commitment to protecting Aotearoa’s natural heritage.
Master Plan
The Park’s master plan, soon to be unveiled, reflects a shared hope and vision for Orana Wildlife Park’s next chapter. It honours the Park’s history while setting a clear roadmap for future investment in habitats, visitor experiences, conservation initiatives, and supporting infrastructure
Get In Touch
Whether you're planning a visit, booking a group experience, exploring learning opportunities, or simply have a question, our team is happy to help. Get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.
