A small start,
with a big dream.
Riverview Sanctuary Trust is a micro sanctuary starting from scratch on fifteen acres in Roxburgh, Central Otago. Right now, that's five sheep, two alpacas, two cats and two dogs, all cared for out of our own pockets while we build something bigger.
Small, and honest about it
We're starting from scratch. There are no sanctuary buildings yet, no paid staff and no big infrastructure. Just fifteen acres, a lot of love, and the animals in our care, looked after out of our own pockets while we build the rest.
Right now that's five sheep, two alpacas, two cats and two dogs: Poncho, family since day one, and Sputnik, the newest arrival. We're a micro sanctuary by design. We'd rather grow slowly and properly than take on more than we can genuinely care for.
Animal welfare comes first. Everything else grows from that.
Care & Sanctuary
A real, permanent home for the animals already in our care. As we grow, there'll be room for more who need rescue, rehabilitation or rehoming.
Education
Helping our community understand animal welfare and what genuinely humane care looks like day to day, starting small, at home.
Land & Community
Caring for the land sustainably now, with a future dream of cabins where people can come and stay, meet the animals and learn alongside us.
Say hello to some of the residents
-
Florence
Sheep
-
George
Alpaca
-
Rascal
Cat
-
Ralph
Sheep
Follow the trail so far
Trust deed signed
Riverview Sanctuary Trust was formally established, with animal welfare set as our clear, primary purpose.
CompleteIncorporated as a charitable trust board
We were officially incorporated with the Companies Office on 11 September 2026.
CompleteRegistered charity
Riverview Sanctuary Trust is now a registered New Zealand charity (CC: CC65170), confirmed on 22/09/2026.
CompleteOpening our doors
Welcoming more animals, our first volunteers, and building out the sanctuary on our fifteen acres.
Next stepBe part of it from the start
We're a small, brand-new charity, and every bit of interest helps. Follow along as Riverview grows, register your interest in volunteering, or just say hello.