Zealandia school holiday events April 2026
03 April 2026 - 10 May 2026
Region(s): Wellington
Type(s): experiences
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is hosting a number of events these April school holidays.
Zealandia's Egg-cellent Adventure
Starting from Easter Weekend, explore the trails of the sanctuary as you search for hidden egg signage that reveal amazing facts about the creatures that lay them — from reptiles to remarkable birds and nests. Along the way, discover how these species are faring in our changing climate and what we can do to help.
Use the trail map to find the answers to the questions, then return to the Visitor Centre to claim your prize.
Packed with adventure, learning, and outdoor fun, it’s the perfect family day out for curious kids and nature-loving grown-ups alike!
It's free to take part, but sanctuary entry fees apply.
Running 3 April–10 May.
Meet the moa!
Have you ever imagined what it would be like to meet a giant moa? Come along to the Tuatara Research Area on Friday 3 April, 10:30 am–1:00 pm for a playful and fun experience with String Bean Puppets’ giant moa. Normal entry fees to the sanctuary apply.
String Bean Puppets: Once in a Full Moon
Be captivated these school holidays the gorgeous puppet show Once in a full moon performed by Anna Bailey of String Bean Puppets.
Deep in the bush a lonely kiwi looks up at the sky and mistakes the full moon for a giant egg. Can kiwis fly? Can moons fall from the sky? Can wishes come true? This magical string puppet adventure that introduces the audience to an intimate encounter with a few of Aotearoa New Zealand's special native creatures.
This show will be held in the Visitor Centre Foyer and is suitable for all ages, normal admission to the sanctuary applies.
Wednesday 8 April, 10:00–11:00 am.
Whānau Print Making
come along to a free, nature inspired craft event! Local artist Tayla Hartemink has designed a series of unique stamps featuring beautiful native manu and ika, perfect for decorating cards, and printing fabric and clothing. A limited amount of materials will be provided, so you are encouraged to bring your own T-shirts, tote bags, tea towels, or other fabric items to personalise with these stunning designs.
Running: 9–10 April, 10:00 am–3:00 pm at the Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Visitor Centre Foyer.
String Bean Puppets: The Tree Friends
This interactive puppet show performed by String Bean is a beautiful story for all ages about the struggle against invasive weed species.
Kererū and Millie are best friends. When a baby kohekohe tree is left orphaned in a storm, they must work together to protect him from the invaders. Not all Green is Good!
Sunday 19 April, 10:00–11:00 am at the Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Visitor Centre Foyer.
For more information on these events see: www.visitzealandia.com/whats-on.
Location: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, End of Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington, New Zealand
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne in the heart of Wellington City was conceived in 1995 and opened in 2000 after the erection of an 8.6 kilometre long predator proof-fence. The sanctuary has a 500 year plan to restore the reserve to how it would have appeared before humans arrived in New Zealand. It is home to many endangered species of birds, plants and animals such as saddleback, tuatara, giant wētā and little spotted kiwi.
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