On 26 October 1974, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve opened its gates. Set on 18 hectares, today it houses roughly 500 animals from 50 different species.
Willowbank combines the conservation of our native New Zealand fauna with an active appreciation of Canterbury’s natural heritage and pre-European history.
Opened as a passionate project by the Willis Family, the reserve is still run by family member, Michael Willis.
*image courtesy Naline Rose Piriani*
