Who can attend Junior Rangers?

This activity is exclusive to Junior Ranger members; bookings are restricted and require the member to book via the referral link.

Are parents required to stay?

Yes. The program allows one parent or caregiver per Junior Ranger and caregivers are responsible for supervising their child at all times.

How long is each session?

Each Junior Rangers session runs approximately two hours.

What should we bring?

Bring layered clothing, sturdy shoes, a refillable water bottle and any necessary medication; inform guides of medical conditions before the session.

What is the group size?

Maximum listed group size is 40 participants but activities are run in small-group formats within that number.

What if we’re late or can’t make it?

Please arrive 15 minutes early; the sanctuary notes no-shows may not be eligible for refunds—check your booking terms via the operator link.

Junior Rangers at Brook Waimārama Sanctuary: Kids Conservation Adventures in Nelson

Brook Waimārama Sanctuary in Nelson, New Zealand, offers a compact wild place where families can step off the city map and into regenerating lowland forest. The Junior Rangers program at the sanctuary is a monthly, two-hour guided experience designed for young conservation-minded explorers and their caregiver. Exclusive to Junior Ranger members, each session rotates through themed activities—habitat surveys, nest-building crafts, species spotting and hands-on restoration tasks—guided by staff who bring local ecology and conservation stories to life. The sanctuary itself is defined by its predator-proof perimeter, riparian streams, boardwalks over wetland, and mature broadleaf canopy that shelters native birds. Key features you’ll notice on any Junior Rangers day include the creek crossings, an open learning clearing near the visitor area, and close-up encounters with tūī, bellbird, and other reintroduced species. Geological elements are subtle but present: glacially scoured valleys and sandstone shingle in streambeds punctuate the forest floor, while wetland pockets support flax and toetoe along the margins. What makes this program stand out is its balance of storytelling and practical conservation. Sessions are small-group friendly (maximum listed group size 40) and structured so children can touch, build, sketch and ask questions, not just listen. The format—different activities each month—keeps returning families engaged, and the sanctuary’s community-driven ethos means kids learn both ecology and local stewardship practices that have helped reintroduce native fauna to the area. Practical notes: the activity lasts about two hours; please arrive at the designated location 15 minutes before the start. The program is restricted to Junior Ranger members and allows one parent or caregiver per Junior Ranger. Caregivers are responsible for their children at all times, and guides ask families to inform them of any medical conditions beforehand. The booking link provided by the operator is required for reservations. For visiting families and educators, this is a rare urban-adjacent chance to see conservation in action: kids plant seeds, check traps, or record bird calls while learning why predator control and habitat restoration matter. It’s an ideal introduction to New Zealand’s unique ecology and a hands-on complement to a day of walks in the surrounding Nelson hills. Whether you bring a curious five-year-old or a classroom of keen students, Junior Rangers at Brook Waimārama Sanctuary turns ordinary outdoor time into purposeful learning and memorable moments. Expect varied terrain: short boardwalk sections, gentle slopes and clear tracks suitable for prams to the visitor area but with uneven surfaces once inside the sanctuary; sturdy shoes are recommended. Volunteers often work alongside staff, and Junior Rangers sometimes help plant seedlings and monitor small streams, activities that give children conservation tasks. Bring a refillable water bottle, weatherproof layers and a sense of curiosity—the program rewards hands-on participation with ecological learning.

About The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary

Brook Waimārama Sanctuary is a predator-free ecological sanctuary on the outskirts of Nelson, New Zealand, dedicated to protecting native forest and wildlife. It manages fenced conservation areas and restores habitats for indigenous species, combining pest control, habitat restoration, and community engagement. The Sanctuary offers a variety of visitor experiences including guided daytime walks, self-guided general admission, and specialist events. Night tours highlight nocturnal species such as kiwi and ruru, and give visitors the chance to see glowworms and hear native bird calls. Small-group formats ensure intimate wildlife encounters and low visitor impact. Brook Waimārama Sanctuary works with local iwi, conservation organisations, and volunteers to deliver education, restoration, and species protection programmes. Facilities support walking tracks, maps, visitor information, and seasonal events. Purchasing admission or participating in guided experiences supports ongoing conservation and pest management efforts. The Sanctuary is managed by a charitable organisation focused on long-term ecological recovery. Visitors can expect knowledgeable guides, clear track information, and opportunities to learn about local fauna and conservation science. The experience suits families, small groups, and people seeking wildlife encounters in a protected forest setting. Brook Waimārama Sanctuary remains a recognised conservation site near Nelson, contributing to regional biodiversity and public education.

On-site signage and guided commentary explain ecological history, species recovery, and the Sanctuary's conservation role. Visitors are asked to follow track guidelines, respect wildlife, and support ongoing initiatives. Gift cards and public events raise funds for habitat protection, reinforcing community involvement and long-term ecological recovery across the Nelson region.