From heartwarming stories to unforgettable photos, each submission has reminded us of the joy and wonder Willowbank has brought to so many families over the years. Take a look at all the incredible submissions below!
We had a fantastic day visiting all the animals. Highlights were: feeding the eels and getting to play with lemurs in a special birthday encounter! - Natali Abances
The most special time for James 3 years ago now! Feeding a gorgeous spring lamb. He could not contain his excitement! The joy in his face! We have so many special family memories made over the years. Thank you Willowbank for everything you do! - Maria Rowe
We came and had our Christmas photo because the kids love it here - Rebecca Moir
My girls absolutely love feeding the animals, especially my 4 year old, they love the ducks and wallabies too. Such a great day spent with the family - Sarah Zohrab
10 years of enjoying willowbank with my nieces and my son - Katala Hansen
10 years of enjoying willowbank with my nieces and my son - Katala Hansen
Searching for the Takahe - Alesha
Some funny snapshots from the first time we took our little boy to Willowbank ...the first of many times, a favourite place to visit. - Jayne s
Cousins enjoying an iceblock in the picnic area. One of their favorite spots, I think they know that it usually marks ice-cream time - Stacey Frew
My daughter absolutely loves being a junior keeper - Emily Bosworth
This was our very first visit to Willowbank. I just assumed this was a normal occurrence for all the birds to flock to and perch on one person. 40 visits later and I realize this was a very special experience! Happy 50 years Willowbank!! - Rebecca Rubin
Hannah first visited Willowbank at 3 weeks old and has been a regular visitor since. She had her first birthday there and has just turned two, we still visit at least once every couple weeks. Willowbank is almost as special to me as it is to Hannah for what it gave me as a new mum; a safe space to meet other mum friends, talk about everything while we walk, breathe fresh air and see our kids interact with nature and animals. We love Willowbank! - Hayley Lotter
Willowbank has always been a special place for our family . My parents would take me as a little girl and now I get to take my sons . My boy became so confident with animals as he would feed the deer at willowbank and they were and still are his favourite ! When life is in chaos we always find ourselves waking around willowbank with the kids for a day out and always walk out happy and relaxed after a beautiful day exploring the animals and the famous tractor we can never get out son off! :) - Ashleigh Ross
Brian could not wait to show granny all the animals when she came and visited - Marichele Foster
This is my daughter Ava who is now 12 meeting her first horse at Willowbank - Juanita Cross
Although we have only been in Christchurch for the past 9 months we have gone most fortnights to willowbank, and I would have to say it is going to be one of the core memories of my daughter’s childhood. We are so blessed to have you guys so close by. Her confidence with animals has gone in leaps and bounds. - Cindy white
Although we have only been in Christchurch for the past 9 months we have gone most fortnights to willowbank, and I would have to say it is going to be one of the core memories of my daughter’s childhood. We are so blessed to have you guys so close by. Her confidence with animals has gone in leaps and bounds. - Cindy white
Luka playing chicken - Sophie Moore
2021 when my kids weren’t at school and we shared many preschool days adventuring and having fun at willowbank - Pip Wilkinson
Are you sure they don\'t bite? - Kevin White
Serves you right Poppa! - Kevin White
Poppa, I think we should have a fluffy from the cafe, then go and see the animals - OK? - Kevin White
My Granddaughter\'s first nervous attempt at feeding the eels. - Kevin White
The boys chatting to the geese, my older boy was getting protective of his little brother - Lucy Quirke
Mid winter visits to willowbank. Seeing the Lemurs sunbathing was a highlight! - Dominic Keall Grant
3yo Jack riding the old tractor in style! - James Owen
My favourite parts about willowbank is that you can get up and close to most of the animals, feeding, petting etc.
I once got bitten by the big white swan/goose probably my own fault - Holly Hill
My kids always have to get a photo on the tractor on our way through the park! - Dave Hall
Watched the wallaby chilling and observing pukeko and geese as we had our light picnic with a goose eyeing us! - Juliana Venning
Loving seeing all the deer up close - Jess Omalley
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