Branching Out for Conservation Week!

Branching Out for Conservation Week!

It is Conservation Week in New Zealand, and what better way to celebrate than by taking a journey through the treetops with us at Ziptrek Ecotours Queenstown where adventure meets Aotearoa’s natural beauty!

Perched high above Queenstown on iconic Bob’s Peak, our tours take you soaring through the canopy of one of the most breathtaking backyards in the world. But it's not just about adventure and ziplines (although, let's be honest, they're pretty great). It’s also about connecting with nature, learning about our unique environment, and playing a part in protecting it.

What’s the Buzz in the Bush?

As you zip through the forest, keep an eye out - and an ear open - for some of our favourite locals. No, not the guides (although we think they’re pretty special too), but our native birds like the cheeky tūī, the curious pīwakawaka (fantail), and maybe even a kererū - which our conservation tour is named after!

And let’s talk trees, shall we? You’ll be weaving your way through a mix of trees, so keep your eyes peeled for the native species, many of which we’ve helped reintroduce as part of our ongoing conservation work. Our reforestation projects focus on restoring and growing the native beech forest still standing on parts of Bob’s Peak. But we’re not stopping there! Our planting efforts also include bringing back the diversity that used to exist in the district through mixed planting with species such as :

• Red Beech  - The largest native beech; can live for centuries and grow over 35m tall.
• Pittosporum - Often lemon-scented; seeds are sticky and spread by birds.
• Cabbage Tree (Tī Kōuka) - Iconic spiky tree; Māori used it for food and rope. Very tough and hardy.
• Coprosma - Shiny leaves and bright berries birds love. Male and female plants are separate.
• Wineberry (Makomako) - Fast-growing with edible berries; one of NZ’s few deciduous natives.
• Lancewood (Horoeka) - Young trees have fierce, spiky leaves—thought to deter moa!
• Tree Fuchsia (Kōtukutuku) - World’s largest fuchsia; peeling bark and sweet berries called "konini".

Together, these native species help to rebuild and protect biodiversity, offering food and shelter to native birds and insects, and improving the overall health of the ecosystem. It’s kind of like reuniting all the old friends who used to live here and inviting them to stay for good.

The Ziptrek Way: Eco-Fun with Purpose

From day one, sustainability and conservation have been at the heart of what we do. Whether it's through planting thousands of native trees, minimising impact whilst enhancing our ecosystems, or educating every guest about the importance of New Zealand’s natural environment, we aim to leave every zipliner not just exhilarated, but inspired.

And the coolest part? You’re not just flying through the forest, you’re flying through part of a living, growing restoration project. Every tree planted helps return this area closer to its original glory, and every tour supports that mission.
 

So, This Conservation Week...

Whether you're a local or just visiting, take a moment to appreciate the wild wonders of the Whakatipu. Better yet, come join us for a zip, see the forest from a new perspective, and hear the stories behind the trees, the birds, and the people working to protect them. And if you’re feeling extra inspired, you can choose to Fund a Native Tree when you book your tour, and during Conservation Week, we’ll match your contribution and double your impact.

Because conservation isn’t just about saving nature, it’s about reconnecting with it.