Dunedin is the wildlife capital of New Zealand due to the amazing array of endangered and native species in close proximity to the city. The coastal terrain, secluded beaches and bush-clad hills are the perfect habitat for all manner of creatures from sea lions and seals to penguins and albatross.
Royal Albatross Centre
Your only chance to see the world's only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony.
Visit the exclusive observatory on the nature reserve to see giant albatross throughout their breeding cycle as they court, lay eggs and raise huge fluffy chicks. Take a guided tour of the colony and learn about these delightful marine birds.
For history buffs, experience the Historic Fort Taiaroa, built on the headland to counter the potential threat of a Russian invasion in the late 1880s.
Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Orokonui Ecosanctuary is home to some of the world's most fascinating and rare forest birds, reptiles and plants.
Walk independently or enjoy the sights and sounds of this enchanting forest with one of our friendly expert guides. Different walks are available to suit all levels of fitness.
The OPERA
The OPERA (Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance) is a private eco-reserve dedicated to conservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and education. The operation was originally founded as Penguin Place in 1985 making it the oldest private ecotourism operation in New Zealand.
Penguins, fur seals, sea lions, shore and land birds, native fauna, and more await you within the private reserve. Best of all, by taking a tour you are joining their work, as tour operations directly fund conservation efforts.
Blue Penguins Pukekura
Love penguins? Discover Kororā, the Little Blue Penguin, the world's smallest penguin, in their natural habitat - scurrying up to their cliff-face burrows at Pilots Beach on the Otago Peninsula., Dunedin, in a magical setting.
On tour you'll be guided down to the beach to a viewing platform to see them as they arrive home at dusk.
Monarch Wildlife Cruises & Tours
Dunedin's one-stop shop for wild experiences. See royal albatross, fur seals, penguins and many other species. Options range from one-hour cruises to full day tours visiting all of the Otago Peninsula highlights.
Clearwater Wildlife Tours
A chance to see Yellow-eyed penguins, NZ sealions, NZ fur seals, Albatross and a wide variety of birdlife, in their natural habitat.
Your small, guided tour, of no more than 10 people, will take you to a spectacular, secluded beach.
The private conservation reserve area is on their historic family farm, at Cape Saunders, on the Otago Peninsula.
Port To Port Cruises and Wildlife Tours
Join us onboard Sootychaser for a world class experience on the water. Look for albatross, seals, sea birds, penguins and more. See shipwrecks and historic buildings while learning about the history along the way.
Natures Wonders
The Otago Peninsula headland is arguably the most precious wildlife habitat in New Zealand, and has been described by David Bellamy as "one of the finest examples of eco-tourism in the world". Natures Wonders is located right on the forefront of this headland, and is a self-funded conservation effort to ensure that this land is preserved for all future generations to enjoy, by protecting the penguins, fur seals and other wildlife.
Otago Peninsula Wildlife and Tours
Globally renowned as a wildlife and eco-tourism destination, the peninsula is home to some of New Zealand's most rare and endangered species. Dunedin City's beautiful Otago Peninsula stretches along the southern edge of the Otago Harbour and is an area of outstanding biodiversity. The best way to view wildlife is with a guided tour, which are able to access areas not open to the public and follow recommended guidelines so as not to cause stress to animals.
Dunedin Wildlife and Conservation Charities
Dunedin has many committed wildlife and conservation charities working to protect the unique and endangered local wildlife and habitats. Find out more about volunteer opportunities or donating to the causes.
Wildlife you are likely to see in and around Dunedin
Find out about the unique wildlife that call Dunedin home. Seals, sea lions, little blue penguins, yellow eyed penguins, albatross, native New Zealand birds and more, all found on your doorstep.
Tiaki Promise
In Ōtepoti Dunedin, the Tiaki Promise means looking after our wildlife, peninsula, beaches, land and respecting everyone you meet, visitor or local. By following the Tiaki Promise, you are making a commitment to New Zealand and Dunedin. To act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home.