The Brook Waimārama

This sanctuary is a dream decades in the making. The largest fenced haven for endangered plants and creatures in the South Island, it sits close to Nelson but is hidden away in the Brook Valley where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of native bush. The sanctuary's trust says it wants people to connect with the natural world in a way that promotes environmental responsibility and contributes to the restoration of local and national ecosystems. The park is filled with mature beech and broadleaf forest and populated with weka, kererū, tūī, bellbirds, robins and falcons. It has a 14km pest-proof fence, and the idea is to recreate a piece of Aotearoa only found on a few outlying islands. Visiting is an educational experience and provides a small insight into how the country once looked. 651 Brook Street. (03) 539 4920, brooksanctuary.org

A tomtit.