1 hour 30 minutes

Large group

Free Cancellation

What to Expect

See up to 200 blue penguins returning from sea in the evening! (Generally more penguins are seen over the spring/summer than our autumn or winter months, but we guarantee to see penguins every night!! In the non-breeding months of March to August we often see 20-50 birds each night, however on rare occasions we might see fewer than 10 birds). Extremely close viewing of these birds. Learn about the Māori history of this significant site. Tour includes a special "behind the scenes" look at the reserve and penguin habitat. We are the only blue penguin evening tours that allows photography (but no flash photography) Voted in the top 10 experiences in New Zealand (TripAdvisor 2022). Most tours are led by conservation experts/biologists. Other wildlife often seen (e.g., seals, sealions, albatross)

Description

Itinerary

At Otago Peninsula's largest penguin colony, see up to 200 blue penguins arrive home from a day at sea (more seen over summer than winter). In the non-breeding months (March to August) we expect between 20 - 50 penguins each night.

We will offer viator refunds of 70% if we see less than 5 penguins !

The tour starts with an introduction to the human history of this significant headland, occupied by Māori long before European arrival.
Then we have a special "behind the scenes" walk through the penguin reserve prior to the birds returning from sea. An opportunity to understand the nesting habitat of these birds and see the restoration work undertaken at this site to enhance the environment for penguins and other wildlife. Then just before dusk we move onto our purpose-built platform to marvel at the world's smallest penguin species returning from sea. Watch penguins waddle past us just a few metres away. One of the closest and best opportunities to see our special wildlife in their natural habitat.

Voted in the top 10 TripAdvisor's Best Experiences in New Zealand 2022.

PHOTOGRAPHY ALLOWED (no flash)

Most tours are led by conservation experts/biologists

Inclusions

All Fees and Taxes

Additional information

Not wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
This tour option is for those with their own transport to get to our location. If you do not have a car then book our other tour option that has transport
Most travelers can participate
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 75 travelers
Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Ticket delivery

You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.