Frequently Asked Questions
How do we get to Kaipūpū Sanctuary?
You can only access the Sanctuary via the water. There are several water taxi options to choose from: water taxi providers.
Or you can take your own boat or kayak.
Does it cost to visit Kaipūpū Sanctuary?
As we are nonprofit community group, donations are encouraged to cover running costs. There is a donation box near the Jetty when you arrive, or you can donate here.
What is the walking track like?
The track at the Sanctuary is gentle 2.7km loop track. The track begins with a short climb from the jetty to meet the loop track, from here turning left will take you through regeneration bush towards two northern lookouts where you can enjoy views across Tōtaranui (Queen Charlotte Sound).
From here follow the track through old growth beech and tawa forest on the eastern side, before you come out to views across Picton township. Then the track passes our predator proof fence which protects Kaipupu, and then it re-enters the regenerating bush before meeting back with the Jetty where you started.
Allow 1–2 hours to complete the loop track, however if you enjoy photography or stopping for the views, please allow a bit more time.
The northern lookout has a large picnic table with plenty of seating. It is a great place to stop and enjoy your lunch but please remember to take all rubbish including food scraps with you when you leave.
The track is a clay track and is suitable for mountain buggy style prams but is not wheelchair accessible. When wet, the track can be slippery in areas and good footwear is recommended.
Can we take our dog for a walk at the Sanctuary?
Dogs are not permitted on the Sanctuary; this is to ensure that our native wildlife (particularly ground based animals) are kept safe.
We have found an injured bird, what do we do?
Call DOC or MPI and they will tell you what to do next. If you don't know if an animal is native, still call either DOC or MPI.
DOC emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468)
I want to volunteer at the Sanctuary, how do I get involved?
We are always looking for more help with the various jobs at the Sanctuary. If you want to learn a bit more about how you can help pop into our shop at 14 Auckland Street, Picton or get in touch here.
You can only access the Sanctuary via the water. There are several water taxi options to choose from: water taxi providers.
Or you can take your own boat or kayak.
Does it cost to visit Kaipūpū Sanctuary?
As we are nonprofit community group, donations are encouraged to cover running costs. There is a donation box near the Jetty when you arrive, or you can donate here.
What is the walking track like?
The track at the Sanctuary is gentle 2.7km loop track. The track begins with a short climb from the jetty to meet the loop track, from here turning left will take you through regeneration bush towards two northern lookouts where you can enjoy views across Tōtaranui (Queen Charlotte Sound).
From here follow the track through old growth beech and tawa forest on the eastern side, before you come out to views across Picton township. Then the track passes our predator proof fence which protects Kaipupu, and then it re-enters the regenerating bush before meeting back with the Jetty where you started.
Allow 1–2 hours to complete the loop track, however if you enjoy photography or stopping for the views, please allow a bit more time.
The northern lookout has a large picnic table with plenty of seating. It is a great place to stop and enjoy your lunch but please remember to take all rubbish including food scraps with you when you leave.
The track is a clay track and is suitable for mountain buggy style prams but is not wheelchair accessible. When wet, the track can be slippery in areas and good footwear is recommended.
Can we take our dog for a walk at the Sanctuary?
Dogs are not permitted on the Sanctuary; this is to ensure that our native wildlife (particularly ground based animals) are kept safe.
We have found an injured bird, what do we do?
Call DOC or MPI and they will tell you what to do next. If you don't know if an animal is native, still call either DOC or MPI.
DOC emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468)
I want to volunteer at the Sanctuary, how do I get involved?
We are always looking for more help with the various jobs at the Sanctuary. If you want to learn a bit more about how you can help pop into our shop at 14 Auckland Street, Picton or get in touch here.
