Kiwi Hatchery & Tuatara Backstage Pass Tour

This pass includes your All Day 48 Hr Admission Pass – it’s a great value for money combo ticket. Tours depart at 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm and 4 pm daily – Bookings essential. We will email you an e-ticket, which you can either print and bring with you or use your smartphone to gain entry when you arrive. Please call us on (+64) 03 752 0600 at any point if you require help ordering online.

Select Date of Visit

Note: Prices are subject to change from 1st October 2026.

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Purchase Options

Family deal: 2 adults and up to 2 children for $249. Just add your tickets below; the deal is applied automatically whenever it's cheaper than individual prices, no code needed.

Adult
$95
$95
child
$55
* ages 8 to 15 years
$55
Senior/Student
$93
* with valid student ID
$93

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Our Kiwi Hatchery & Tuatara Backstage Pass Tours. Depart at 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm, and 4 pm daily, Bookings are essential

This pass includes your All Day 48-hour Admission Pass – it’s a combo. Bookings made are non-refundable

The VIP Backstage Pass Tour isn’t for kids under 8 years old. Not sure? Just ask us before booking. Prices are in NZD and are non-refundable. For same-day bookings, check availability first. Book the 4 pm tour? Get here by 3 pm to enjoy the main attraction. Chick viewing might not happen due to conservation rules.

gently hold a kiwi bird in a lush indoor setting with large ferns in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the VIP Backstage Pass Tour include my entry ticket?

Yes. The tour includes the All Day 48-hour Admission Pass.

What is the difference between the 48-hour pass and the VIP Backstage Pass Tour?

The All-Day Pass is general admission, self-guided, valid for 48 hours: the nocturnal kiwi area, tuatara, little blue penguins, and the glacier and wildlife displays. The VIP Backstage Pass Tour, also called the Kiwi Hatchery & Tuatara Backstage Pass Tour, is a combo ticket that includes that admission and adds a 40-minute guided experience with a Kiwi Ranger: behind-the-scenes access to the kiwi incubation and hatching facility, up-close tuatara encounters, and insights into kiwi conservation. You can check tour times and book the combo ticket online.

Can you guarantee we will see a kiwi?

Our team have infrared torches to help guests see kiwi. Just ask any team member.

Can children join the VIP Backstage Pass Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old. Call us before booking if you are not sure, on (+64) 03 752 0600.

How long does the VIP Backstage Pass Tour take?

The guided part runs for about 40 minutes with a Kiwi Ranger. You get behind-the-scenes access to the kiwi incubation and hatching facility and a close-up look at tuatara. Your ticket also includes the 48-hour All-Day Admission Pass, so you can explore the rest of the centre before or after your tour.

Can I book the VIP Backstage Pass Tour on the same day?

Yes, if a spot is available. Same-day bookings close 60 minutes before each tour departs, so check availability and book online as early as you can.

Will I definitely see a kiwi chick on the tour?

We cannot guarantee a chick sighting, because kiwi conservation rules come first. You will still get behind-the-scenes access to the hatchery and tuatara, and the Kiwi Ranger will share details about the conservation work.