The Dunedin Wildlife Hospital is a veterinary facility specialising exclusively in the treatment of New Zealand’s native species.
Our vet team cares for some of the world’s rarest and most endangered species at our headquarters in the Wildlife Capital of New Zealand, Ōtepoti Dunedin.
Each year, we treat more than 600 native patients, with a world class success rate of around 80%, sending the vast majority of cases back into the wild where they belong.
Our patients include iconic New Zealand species like hoiho/yellow-eyed penguins, kākāpō, kiwi, kea and tuatara, among many more.
The majority of the patients we treat are taonga - treasured species - to Ngāi Tahu and other iwi across the South Island.
Our mission is to improve the wellbeing of NZ’s native wildlife through expert veterinary care, and education
Patient welfare is
our beating heart
Together, we can
make a difference
We re-imagine
what’s possible
We stand by what’s right
Beyond patient care - going above and beyond
Research Contributions
Our veterinary team makes valuable contributions to research in wildlife health, wildlife management, infectious and zoonotic disease, and more.
We work with universities, research groups and government departments on projects that further our understanding of the prevalence of disease, disease impacts and how to reduce or prevent them.
Community Education
Education is a key part of our mission. We help people understand the challenges that native wildlife face, and how they can take action, whether through supporting the Wildlife Hospital or getting involved in their own backyards.
Our staff love sharing stories about our work with schools, community groups, businesses and anyone keen on learning about wildlife. We can deliver online or in-person.
Interested in having someone speak to your group?
Veterinary Training
Our expert vet team delivers Level 6 and Level 7 certificate courses in Avian Wildlife Healthcare for qualified vets and vet nurses through our partnership with Otago Polytechnic.
