NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand's best.
New Zealand's 15 most popular wildlife tours, in one place. What each one is actually like, who runs it, and what you will pay.
Half-day Otago Peninsula wildlife tour with small groups, private viewing access at Cape Saunders and a penguin reserve near Dunedin.
“It was amazing and we saw baby seals playing, sea lions, various birds and yellow eyed penguins. We were very luck and saw one coming back from the ocean. The tour guide was very professional and knowledgeable. It was a great tour.”
2-hour Milford Sound cruise with live nature guide commentary, waterfall spray close-up, and chances to spot seals, dolphins, penguins.
“Great experience to make, we had luck with the weather. stunning views and a guide who shared many interesting information with us on the boat. I would definitely recommend!”
Paddle Kaikoura Peninsula by sea kayak in a marine reserve. Small-group wildlife tour with fur seals, birds, and dolphin chances.
“We had a great time because we saw many dolphins! They were jumping and swimming under the kayaks. I will say that I was happy that I was in shape and had kayaked before, because we did have to paddle quite far to reach the pod. The staff was wonderful and so helpful and patient.”
Kayak Kaikoura’s rugged coast for guaranteed seal viewing, with chances for dusky dolphins and blue penguins. Gear and guides included.
“Ollie has been a really cool Guide! He gave us lots of information. I highly recommend this tour!”
Six ziplines through Rotorua’s rare native forest, plus swing bridges and bird encounters, with conservation benefits and free photos.
“We hade such an amazing day and so much fun with Natalie and Bree! We would do the tour again at any time and can highly recommend it! They do a great work to bring back the birds and protect the forest!”
6-hour island-hopping catamaran in the Bay of Islands with snorkelling, paddleboarding, and a wildlife sanctuary stop with lunch included.
“The crew were amazing and awesome. The beach was gorgeous. They did the best of it despite the unforeseen rain. I did snorkeling but waters were too cloudy from the rain. There is a limited four hrs street parking in front of the beach at your own risk of a ticket and the crew doesn’t…”
See rare yellow-eyed penguins on Otago Peninsula on a 90-minute guided eco-reserve walk and rehab centre visit.
“Seeing the habitat and the work that is being done to protect these beautiful birds made us all feel very happy to support this project!”
1-hour Otago Peninsula wildlife cruise from Dunedin to spot royal albatross, dolphins, seals, and penguins with jackets, binoculars, and Wi‑Fi.
“The Monarch boat tour was exceptionally well organised with very good commentary provided by the skipper. The skipper knew exactly where to take us to see the Albatross and he was able to get us close enough to photograph them on the water and in flight. He was also quick to point out dolphins, seals…”
A 2-hour small-group walk at Zealandia in Wellington to spot native birds and reptiles, with an expert guide and entry included.
“So worth it to enjoy a walk learning about the bush and ecosystem. Great to spend money on contributing to the 500 year vision of Zealandia. Oliver, our guide was sensitive to our groups needs and shared his passion for the valley.”
Small-group Port Chalmers wildlife cruise for albatross, fur seals and penguins around Otago Peninsula. Heated cabin, guide ID help.
“Amazing experience in the bay with Rachel our skipper so competent and knowledgeable I will fo it again one day”
Small-group Marlborough Sounds cruise from Picton with a Motuara bird sanctuary walk, dolphin and seal sightings, and included drinks.
“Great way to explore the charlotte sound track. Captain's commentary was great too. Lots to see from the boat and shore”
4.5-hour Bay of Islands cruise with Roberton Island walk, Hole in the Rock, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing on a small-group boat.
“Great experience with amazing views. Staff were super friendly and kind, would definitely do it again :)”
Sail from Paihia to a wildlife sanctuary island for 2 hours of snorkel and SUP plus hiking, lunch, and drinks on a catamaran.
“Excellent trip into the Bay of Islands. The were excellent, informative, fun, and genuinely cared about the places we visited and their guests. Would 100% recommend as a must do while in the area!”
Skip the line at Franz Josef Wildlife Centre to see Rowi kiwi, tuatara and glacier displays, with optional VIP backstage access.
“Extremely interesting and informative. Amazing enthusiasm and knowledge from our guide in the backstage tour. Seeing the kiwis was a special moment.”
Join a small-group Zealandia night walk in Wellington: torches, guided exhibition, moa and eagle models, and a flashlight hunt for kiwi.
“Our tour was awesome and even more than we hoped for. Will loves his job and is very evident. We saw what we wanted- A kiwi! Actually, four! This was one of our highlighted activities in Wellington!”
