Come and join us for an interpretive tour of our working conservation reserve.

Duration

1.5 hours

About

Our Wildlife & Penguin tour offers the most exclusive opportunity in New Zealand to view the endangered, yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho), in their natural habitat.

This 90-minute guided tour consists of three parts. Our guests begin their experience in a theatre setting, where they learn about the yellow-eyed penguin and our conservation efforts to protect them.

Guests then move into our rehabilitation centre (when penguins are present) where yellow-eyed penguins and other penguin species can be seen up close. Finally, guests take a short bus trip into our reserve where they are guided on an approximately 2km (1.25 mile) nature walk with the potential to see numerous plants and animals, including yellow-eyed penguins and little penguins, fur seals, sea lions, and several species of shore and land birds, all of which reside in the reserve.

Things to Know

• It is important that guests feel physically capable of a 2km (1.25 mile) walk over uneven terrain and more than 100 steps, which may be experienced within our reserve. If individuals are claustrophobic, please note that portions of the tour may pass through a trench system (which is narrow at times) and opens into dug out viewing hides which allow for observing wildlife at eye level. Your guide will determine the best area to visit during the tour to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Please note that penguins are wild animals and sightings are never guaranteed on tour.

• Please check in 15 minutes prior to the tour departure time to confirm your arrival.

What to bring

Dress warm for the days forecast and bring a waterproof layer. The weather can be unpredictable at times and we highly recommend being ready for all conditions. Extra jackets are available if needed. We suggest wearing sturdy and comfortable footwear.