Clearwater Wildlife Tours (small group 10max) Otago Peninsula
Fewer People - More Wildlife! The Clearwater Family's Farm is home to more wildlife per square meter than anywhere in Dunedin. The intimate small group tours offer the chance to see Yellow-eyed penguins, NZ sea lions, NZ fur seals, albatross plus a wide variety of birdlife, in the wild. Your professionally guided tour of no more than 10 people will take you to the private beach & wildlife reserves through our working farm at Cape Saunders on the Otago Peninsula. A wild and untamed, dramatic environment that we are lucky enough to share with some of New Zealand's rarest species. The aim is to give you a truly authentic wildlife experience and leave you with memories that will last for a lifetime. The Clearwater family has deep roots here and is devoted to preserving and enhancing its pristine beauty. Become a part of our shared commitment to protect its natural wildlife habitats.
Enjoy over 145 years of brewing history as the guides take you through the interactive brewery tour. Learn in a guided small group with a maximum of 15 travelers about all of the ingredients that go into the award-winning brews and hear about the state of the art brewing process used today. The tour ends with a tasting, where you’ll get to enjoy samples of the beer as the knowledgeable guides talk you through the different styles and flavors in the range.
Dunedin Shore Excursion: Small-Group Tour of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula
See the beautiful countryside surrounding Dunedin when your cruise ship is in port, on a small-group tour of the Otago Peninsula. This scenic tour takes you to lookouts for panoramic views over the countryside and coast, and reveals the relaxed seaside villages surrounding Dunedin. See sea lions basking in the sun on one of the regions most scenic beaches, and enjoy the personalized attention on this small-group shore excursion, with numbers limited to 19 people.
Hop aboard our sturdy vessel for a one-hour Wildlife Cruise, departing from Wellers Rock Wharf on the Otago Peninsula. You'll cruise out of the Otago Harbour, beyond the world's only mainland colony of royal albatross. Have your camera ready as these huge birds soar in from sea on three metre wings. A historic lighthouse is perched high atop volcanic cliffs. Your skipper will guide the boat close to the rocks below, for great views of playful fur seals. The boat will travel a short way out into the sea to look for other albatross and rare seabirds. On some trips we might spot little blue penguins, sea lions and occasionally dolphins. Your local crew will provide a full commentary about the areas history, the volcanic scenery and wildlife spotted during your cruise . Hot tip - Don't be put off by cool and windy weather. These can often be the best conditions for wildlife viewing and sea conditions. Albatross really love a brisk southerly wind!
Shore Excursion: V8 Trike, Peninsula and City Tour
Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of New Zealand's most beautiful city while experiencing the thrill and excitement of being on a V8 trike. This informative tour will travel past Dunedin's most iconic heritage building's before heading out on to the Peninsula where you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Otago Harbour and Dunedin's beaches. The tour stops on the Peninsula to allow for photos of the scenery and the trike. This tour is a fun and exciting way to escape the crowds and get a feel for City and the Peninsula. It will also sure to make you the envy of your other cruise ship passengers.
Admire the fine architecture, gardens and decor of the elegant Olveston Historic Home during a 1-hour guided tour of this must-see attraction in Dunedin. You can also stroll through the beautiful gardens and take in views of the city and Otago Harbour. During the house tour, your knowledgeable guide shares informative commentary about the design, art and furnishings, as well as the family that built the home. This tour gives you a chance to glimpse life in New Zealand during the early 20th century and learn about one of Dunedin’s most prominent families.
Otago Peninsula In-Depth Tour & Blue Penguins Pukekura Experience
If you are a visitor that truly wants to see and understand the unique ecosystems, wildlife, culture, geology and botany of the Otago Peninsula then join this tour. We see a variety of wildlife species along the way (seasonal). At Pukekura we have a good chance to see seals nearby & albatross flying overhead. Later we join our Blue Penguins Pukekura Experience tour, see the world's smallest penguin emerging from the sea and walking past us just metres away. Note: Others join us for that part of this experience (max 75) PHOTOGRAPHY IS ALLOWED (no flash) We will offer viator refunds of 30% if we see less than 5 penguins ! (Lower than booking direct through our own website where we can offer refunds of 50%) If no availability on this site, check our own website for additional availability/other tours. As a Charitable Trust our aim is to look after our reserve and protect the Otago Peninsula's largest penguin colony. Top 10 TripAdvisor's Best Experiences in New Zealand 2023.
Small group tours, by Otago Harbour's most experienced skipper/guide! You wont find a wildlife guide with more experience on Otago harbour then owner/operator Rachel McGregor. She has had 20 +years experience skippering/guiding/operating commercial vessels on Otago Harbour, including dredger, coastguard, harbourmaster and more. Modern, comfortable, safe, fast and custom built boat. Approx 1.5 hours -2 hours in duration. -Fully commentated. -Quality binoculars provided. -We pass by the historic Quarantine Stations and old shipwrecks. -See and learn about the fishing boats, workboats, dredges and ships as we pass Port Chalmers and Careys Bay. -Look for albatross, penguins, seals, sea lions, sea birds, marine mammals and more as we cruise past roosting, breeding and feeding areas. -See/learn about the historic pilots houses, search light and gun emplacements and the old whaling stations. -Cruise around Taiaroa Head, Nature reserve.
Iconic Shore Excursion: Dunedin City Highlights Tour
Discover top attractions and iconic sites and lookouts around the city of Dunedin on this half-day city tour. Explore Dunedin with a guide and take in key sites of interest such as the World famous Baldwin Street, University of Otago, Olveston Homestead gardens and Dunedin's Grand Railway Station. Awesome lookouts over Otago Harbour and from Signal Hill. Visit the Octagon (city centre) for some shopping and a bite to eat. All transport to and from the cruise ship wharf is included. Enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour, limited to 20 people. Daily departures are available for cruise passengers and city-based passengers.
Dunedin Wildlife Cruise-Albatross, seals and harbour
Small group tours, by Otago Harbour's most experienced skipper/guide! You wont find a wildlife guide with more experience on Otago Harbour then owner/operator Rachel McGregor. She has had 20 +years experience skippering/guiding/operating commercial vessels on Otago Harbour, including dredger, coastguard, harbourmaster and more. Modern, comfortable, safe, fast and custom built boat. Approx 1.5 hours -2 hours in duration. -Full professional amplified commentary -Quality binoculars provided. -Bathroom onboard, heated cabin -Learn about historic Quarantine Stations and old shipwrecks. -See and learn about the fishing boats, workboats, dredges and ships as we pass Port Chalmers and Careys Bay. -Look for albatross, penguins, seals, sea lions, sea birds, marine mammals and more as we cruise past roosting, breeding and feeding areas. -See/learn about the historic pilots houses, search light and gun emplacements and the old whaling stations. -Cruise around Taiaroa Head, Nature reserve.
Castle, Coast & City Tour - 8 pax max - Castle Entrance Included
A relaxed and friendly small group tour (max. 8 pax) showing you Dunedin's most impressive, unique and charming sights, including a tour of the only castle in the country: Larnach Castle. With an entertaining mix of storytelling, photo ops, scenery, and charm, our tours provide visitors with an unforgettable experience and a fantastic insight into our hometown - Otepoti Dunedin. Auch auf Deutsch!
Iconic Shore Excursion: Iconic Larnach Castle Tour
Enjoy a personalized small group tour of Larnach Castle and Dunedin City. This is a 6 hour fully guided tour that lets you explore Dunedin and Larnach Castle at a leisurely pace. Included is a fully guided tour of Larnach Castle's unique interior. Chilled spring water is provided complimentary to those who bring their own re-useable water bottles. The tour takes in many interesting buildings and landmarks in Dunedin city such as the Larnach family tomb, the old University and all the main city attractions. The drive to Larnach Castle offers spectacular views from the Otago Peninsula with a lookout stop along the way. On arrival at Larnach Castle, your table will be reserved for lunch at the Ballroom cafe (lunch is own cost). After lunch and the guided tour inside the Castle, your guide will also take you through the award winning gardens offering fantastic views over the Otago Harbour.
Dunedin City and Coastal Views 3-Hour Small-Group Guided Tour
Explore Dunedin highlights on a half-day, small-group tour that goes from the city's historic landmarks to the beaches of the Otago Peninsula. You'll see the University of Otago, the Dunedin Railway Station, and more, then continue to the beautiful Otago Peninsula, pausing on route to view St. Clair Beach and esplanade. This tour includes transfers from Port Chalmers, with departure times to suit cruise ship arrivals. Learn about local history and culture and see Dunedin's must-see sights. Take a scenic drive along the Otago Peninsula. Choice of morning or afternoon departures to suit your schedule. Transfers from Port Chalmers, select Dunedin hotels, or The Octagon.
Shore Excursion: Dunedin City, Otago Peninsula, Castle Gardens & Olveston Tour
With this tour, you will experience the pure beauty of Dunedin through a journey rich in heritage, spectacular scenery, and memorable highlights. You’ll explore the stunning Otago Peninsula via scenic Highcliff Road, with its rugged beaches and bays, and visit the gardens of New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle. Along the way, you’ll visit some of Dunedin’s most iconic locations: • Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest street • A local lookout point with panoramic views of the city, harbour, and peninsula • The University of Otago — New Zealand’s oldest university • The Octagon • Dunedin Railway Station • The Dunedin Botanic Garden — internationally significant and the oldest in the country In addition, you will join a one-hour guided tour of Olveston Historic Home, one of Dunedin’s true treasures. Every piece inside the house is original, offering an intimate glimpse into the life of the family who once lived there.
Enjoy a guided tour of Dunedin city, take in the highlights and enjoy a café lunch in a lovely garden setting. This 5 hour tour explores the city before heading out onto the stunning Otago peninsula. A visit to Larnach Castle , New Zealand's only castle is a must see. There is a café here which has tea coffee and a variety of food on offer. Then spend the rest of the visit enjoying the very extensive gardens. (Admission to the gardens is included. The tour inside castle can be booked and paid on the day). During the tour you will view some outstanding scenery that we have on offer here in paradise (AKA Dunedin). There are fantastic photo opportunities during the tour.
Larnach Castle & Dunedin City Highlights Tour (Shore Excursion)
We meet you at the Port Chalmers Cruise Ship Terminal for the 'Larnach Castle & Dunedin City Highlights Tour' Stops include: -Dunedin Railway Station (most photographed building in NZ) -Baldwin Street (world's steepest street) -Otago University (NZ's oldest University) -Signal Hill Lookout -Heritage Buildings Plus more After the 'City Highlights Tour' we drop you off at the Octagon in the City Centre. You will have 1 hour of free time for lunch & shopping. Meridian Shopping Mall is 2 blocks away with a Food Court. After lunch we depart on the journey up to the Castle. We take in the magnificent views of the peninsula and make a quick stop at a lookout for a great photo opportunity. On arrival we take you on a guided tour of the Castle with time afterwards to do some of your own exploring or check out the award-winning gardens. You also have the option to visit the Ballroom Cafe for refreshments. ($48 NZD Larnach Castle/Gardens entry fee is included in our tour price) No hidden fees.
Dunedin, Otago Peninsula Scenery and OPERA Conservation Tour
Enjoy a personal small-group tour of Dunedin and the spectacular Otago Peninsula. Travelling in a smaller vehicle means less waiting and allows us to follow Highcliff Road—a scenic route unsuitable for large coaches—with breathtaking peninsula and harbour views. Your guide helps you make the most of the day and shares local stories. The tour includes a 1.5-hour guided conservation walk at OPERA (Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance). Explore protected coastal habitat and learn about efforts to save the critically endangered yellow-eyed penguin. Yellow-eyed penguins are present in extremely low numbers, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. You may see one in its natural habitat or receiving care in the rehabilitation facility; however, on some visits, none are seen. Other wildlife may include New Zealand fur seals, coastal and seabirds, little blue penguin nesting areas and, occasionally, New Zealand sea lions. All animals are wild, so every visit is different and sightings vary.
Larnach Castle & Otago Wildlife Cruise from Dunedin
Visit the stunning Larnach Castle. Explore the scenic Otago Peninsula and enjoy a special Monarch Wildlife Cruise. Your guide will take you on a one-hour tour of Larnach Castle. Hear the scandalous story of early settler William Larnach and his family. Explore the beautifully restored castle, with it's original antique furniture and impressive craftsmanship throughout. 30-minutes is allowed to briefly explore the gardens or take tea in the ballroom cafe. The bus tour will then take you further along the Otago Peninsula. You'll next board a one-hour Wildlife Cruise, travelling past volcanic cliffs and a historic lighthouse. Enjoy close viewing of fur seals, royal albatross and seabirds. We sometimes spot sea lions, blue penguins & dusky or hectors dolphins. A 90-minute visit to The OPERA can also be added on as an extra. See conservation in action and possibly see the worlds rarest penguin (yellow-eyed) as you walk through a private eco-reserve and wildlife rehab facility.
Heritage City and Larnach Castle Van tour with Historian Guide
A tour with Gregor is like no other. Emerging business award finalist, Tales From Darkest Dunedin and Gregor Campbell, respected historian and expert story teller has been uncovering forgotten events and people in Dunedin's history. He has been featured in newspapers for his finds and recently on the cover of New Zealand Heritage Magazine for his cemetery tours. Gregor is particularly interested in colonial history, the exchanges between Māori Kāi Tahu, the Scottish and the everyday people that came to make a life here, for better or for worse. And now he's your tour guide! Gregor's stories of murder, shipwrecks, discovery, heroes and villains are exclusive to Tales From Darkest Dunedin and weave together to give a greater picture of our city and the lives that brought it to where it is today.
Enjoy a full-day tour experiencing lovely Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula. You will see all the city highlights before journeying along the Otago Peninsula, which is full of wildlife and the majestic Larnach Castle (garden entry included, the tour inside the castle can be booked and paid for on the day if required). Also included is a visit to The Opera (Formerly Known as Penguin Place) - learn about the Yellow-Eyed penguin and our conservation efforts to protect them. Guests then move into the rehabilitation centre (when penguins are present) where Yellow-Eyed penguins and other penguin species can be seen up close. Then a short bus trip to the reserve where you are guided on an approximately 2km nature walk (Some steps included and uneven ground). Your local guide has many stories of the area and knows all the best spots and vantage points along the way. There is plenty of time to chat and enjoy the commentary during your small-group tour.