Private Guided Tour

Join one of our passionate, knowledgeable guides on a private walking tour tailored to your interests and schedule. All tours take place along gently graded trails through our stunning, predator-free native forest. Whether you have 45 minutes or a full morning to explore, we’ll help you make the most of your time at the maunga.

As you walk beneath the towering canopy of tawa, rimu, rewarewa, and northern rata, your guide will help you spot some of Aotearoa’s rarest native wildlife. Keep an eye out for tīeke (saddlebacks), hihi (stitchbirds), North Island robins, tomtits, kererū, fantails, tūī, and kākā, as well as native insects like the curious wētā.

You’ll also learn about the forest’s ambitious conservation story, including recent translocations of kōkako and rifleman, and the success of our kiwi population, now estimated at over 3000 individuals.

By booking a private tour, you’re directly supporting our conservation work. All tours include a complimentary Sanctuary Explorer Day Pass, so you’re welcome to continue exploring on your own after your guide departs.

Tour Length Options & Sample Itineraries

45-Minute Snapshot Tour

Perfect for visitors short on time.
Example itinerary:

• Brief forest walk near the Visitor Centre

• Overview of the sanctuary’s history and mission

60-Minute Highlights Tour

A great introduction to the maunga.
Example itinerary:

• Leisurely loop through the southern enclosure

• Spot tīeke and North Island robins while learning about our native flora

90-Minute Forest Immersion

More time to slow down and observe.
Example itinerary:

• Visit the viewing tower to see the forest canopy

• Time spent listening to and identifying native birdsong

• Stories of species recovery and pest-exclusion fencing.
  

180-Minute Forest & Wetlands Tour

Explore both our ancient forest and wetland habitats.
Example itinerary:

• Full forest experience as above

• Guided visit to the Tautari Wetland

• See endangered takahē and tuatara in their protected habitat

• Great for photographers and birders

240-Minute Custom Tour

Your experience, your way. Let us tailor the perfect experience for your interests—cultural, photography, birdwatching, ecology, or even a more challenging walk.
Example itinerary ideas:

• Combine the full forest and wetland tour

• Add in more time for observation, sketching, or in-depth Q&A

• Include breaks for nature journaling or a picnic in a secluded spot

• Add a cultural perspective exploring Māori herbal medicine, food and culture.

Every tour is private and fully guided—ideal for couples, families, photographers, educators, or anyone seeking a more intimate experience with the maunga.

Ready to create your perfect visit? Let us know your preferred duration and interests, and we’ll craft a memorable encounter with one of New Zealand’s most important ecological sanctuaries.

• This private guided tour requires a minimum of two participants to go ahead.
• The tour length can be adjusted to suit your timeframe from 45 minutes to up to 4 hours.
• Tours are offered daily between 8.30am and 3pm and are subject to guide availability.
• Please check in at least 10 minutes prior to your tour at Manu Tīoriori visitor centre.
  
• A complimentary Sanctuary Explorer Day Pass to continue exploring the forest after your tour is included.

*Standard booking terms and conditions apply. If you need to reschedule please let us know as soon as you can.

**Please note the complimentary Sanctuary Explorer Day Pass must be used during daylight hours on the day of issue.