Meet New Zealand’s Tuatara – Back To The Future!
The Tuatara is a species of reptile endemic to New Zealand. Despite its close resemblance to lizards, it is the only living member of a distinct lineage, the previously highly diverse order Rhynchocephalia. The name Tuatara is derived from the Māori language and means "peaks on the back".This is a very unique opportunity to see the last living descendants of ancient reptiles that first roamed the Earth over 200 million years ago years ago. Check out Rewi here - our A 35-year-old, large, and very impressive male Tuatara!.
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Fun and Fascinating Facts About Tuatara
A tuatara might look like a lizard, but it’s actually a distinct and extraordinarily ancient reptile, a true living fossil. This creature is the sole survivor of the rhynchocephalian order, a lineage that first appeared on Earth an astonishing 200 million years ago — a full 120 million years before the Tyrannosaurus rex even walked the planet. All of its relatives died out over 60 million years ago, making the tuatara the last representative of a vast and ancient group.
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A Self Guided 48-Hour General Pass
As well as our unique indoor attraction, we also run a very popular local gift store. Looking for the best coffee in Franz Josef! Guest tells us that our Café is a relaxing place to grab a drink and our bakery can make you a packed lunch for your day out exploring!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tuatara?
A living fossil that has survived over 250 million years. Tuatara are not lizards but the last surviving members of the ancient order Rhynchocephalia, which predates the dinosaurs by tens of millions of years. Native only to New Zealand, they grow slowly, can live more than 100 years, and have a light-sensitive third eye.
What will I see in the tuatara habitat?
Live tuatara in a dedicated indoor habitat, with facts about their evolution and biology. The tuatara attraction is part of the self-guided experience included with your general pass.
What does the day pass include?
Access to the live kiwi, tuatara, little blue penguins, and the glacier and wildlife displays, plus the chance to attend the penguin feedings, usually at 11am and 3pm daily. We recommend you book a day pass online before you arrive.
What is the VIP Backstage Pass Tour?
A 40-minute guided experience with behind-the-scenes access to the kiwi incubation and hatching facility, up-close tuatara encounters, and insights into kiwi conservation from a Kiwi Ranger. It is a small-group tour focused on seeing rare kiwi species, and it includes up to 48-hour general admission. You can reserve a place on the Backstage Pass tour online.
Award winning
We’re proud to be recognized with awards that celebrate our commitment to excellence, and customer satisfaction.
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