Preview

Where

Brymer Road (opposite Hamilton Zoo)
Rotokauri

Hours

7 days a week
Dawn to dusk

Contact Details

Hamilton City Council
Phone: 07 838 6699

​Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park (WHNP) is the flagship project for biodiversity in our city. This science-based, community-led project, represents a vision of bringing back Hamilton’s native flora and fauna.​ Located on the outskirts of Hamilton, with access off Brymer Rd and Baverstock Rd.  WHNP is an award-winning, inter-generational ecological restoration project.

Established in 2004, the long-term aim of Waiwhakareke is to reconstruct the natural forest, wetland and lake ecosystems present in pre-European times. Intensive predator control will allow vulnerable species to flourish in an urban environment and spill over to other parts of the city. 

The 65.5ha park will serve as a focus for Hamilton’s wider biodiversity restoration, including lakes and lakeshores, the Waikato River, its banks and unique gullies, and other parks with current or potential natural values (estimated to be 750 hectares).

It will bring our natural and cultural heritage to within easy reach of New Zealand’s largest inland city, and reconnect current and future generations with their environment through enhanced education, outreach and engagement opportunities. 

In order to protect and enhance the environment we ask that you don't bring your dogs and follow our outlined guidelines. This park is still a working farm so please stick to the tracks, leave gates as you find them, and don't disurb stock. 

But more importantly, take the time to enjoy this unique space and learn about its amazing flora and fauna.