West Coast Wildlife Centre Named Finalist in Two Leading Light Business Excellence Awards

West Coast Wildlife Centre Named Finalist in Two Leading Light Business Excellence Awards

The West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef has been named a finalist in two categories at the 2026 Development West Coast Leading Light Business Excellence Awards.

The conservation-led visitor attraction has been selected as a finalist for both the Marsh Medium Enterprise Award and the Department of Conservation Sustainability Award.

West Coast Wildlife Centre owner and director Richard Benton said the dual recognition was a significant achievement for the entire team.

“We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly honoured to be named a finalist in not one, but two categories,” Mr Benton said.

“This recognition belongs to our whole team. Their passion, professionalism and commitment to wildlife conservation, animal care and creating memorable visitor experiences are at the heart of everything we do.”

Based in Franz Josef, the West Coast Wildlife Centre is one of the South Island’s largest kiwi incubation and hatching facilities and, in partnership with Te Runanga o Makaawhio and the Department of Conservation, has played an important role in supporting the recovery of rowi and Haast tokoeka kiwi.

The Centre also provides visitors with the opportunity to see kiwi and tuatara and to experience its Ambassador Penguin Encounter, which is home to rescued kororā that have suffered injuries or health conditions that prevent them from being returned safely to the wild.

Mr Benton said being recognised in both the business and sustainability categories reflected the Centre’s commitment to combining conservation, education and tourism.

“We are very proud to operate a successful West Coast business that also makes a meaningful contribution to wildlife conservation and environmental education,” he said.

“Our team works incredibly hard every day to care for some of New Zealand’s most precious species while providing visitors with an experience that builds awareness, understanding and support for conservation.”

The West Coast Wildlife Centre is Qualmark Gold accredited, ranked No 1 of things to see and do in Franz Josef on Tripadvisor, open 365 days a year and has become one of New Zealand's leading wildlife attractions.

General Manager Lisa Stevenson said the finalist announcement was also positive recognition for Franz Josef and the wider West Coast.

“We are proud to represent Franz Josef and the South Westland community at these awards and to showcase what can be achieved by a passionate team operating in a small regional community,” she said.

“We are very grateful to Development West Coast, the award sponsors and judges for this recognition, and we look forward to celebrating alongside the other outstanding finalists at the awards evening.”