Join us on the ultimate penguin tour. A guided tour through the entire colony with a guide to explain the life of a penguin and the history of the colony. Then join us for the evening viewing to see the penguins return from a day spent at sea.
Tour Info
Sapphire Viewing:
Daily at 10am
Evening Viewing:
Oct to Mar at 5.30pm
Apr to Sept at 9.30pm
Running Time: 2 - 2.5 hours
Please call +64 3 433 1195, 24 hours in advance to make your booking and to confirm viewing start time which does vary throughout the year.
The focus is on the migrant waders and we can do this tour between September and April. We travel to Farewell Spit as the tide is rising and spend time near the base of the Spit observing the birds flying in to roost as the tide chases them across the inter-tidal plain. The opportunity for this tour arises about one third of the time. We are restricted to a maximum of 10 people per trip.
The tidal range at Farewell Spit is huge - at low tide over 9km of sandflats sweep out to the clear blue waters of Golden Bay. This is where the arctic waders come to feed and you will be able to see many of them, though the number of species observed on many trips depends on tides, weather conditions and the time of year. Over the years we have studied the best times to see the bird life; the godwits, knots, turnstones and other arctic waders are usually on the Spit from late September until early April.
Tour Info
Times: Daily Departure times/days vary according to tidal conditions
Departs from Puponga
Please check in at our Office in Collingwood. Then please report at Nature Reserve Gate
Check in at Collingwood Office then drive 30 minutes to pick up point.
Running Time: 2 hours
Call Toll Free within New Zealand: 0800 808 257 to make firm reservations at least 72 hours in advance.
Please note some days the tour cannot operate due to tidal conditions.
Dont forget to bring a Jacket, Shoes for the beach, binoculars and camera.
The Lighthouse Tour is approximately four and a half hours. You will be collected from the gate at the entrance to the nature reserve and enjoy the same experience on the spit as the Eco Tour.
On the Lighthouse Safari you will see a variety of resident seabirds and other wildlife (on some days seals haul themselves up for a snooze on the sand). There are plenty of stops along the way so make sure you bring your camera.
Learn how the Lighthouse worked - see the relics from this historic NZ icon and enjoy a muffin and tea or coffee while exploring our century old Lighthouse keeper's house.
We climb one of the Barchan sand-dunes for a panoramic view, which includes the vast intertidal plain where the migratory waders feed at low tide.
Our guides are passionate about the Spit and are commited to ensuring you get the most from your experience.
So join us, come smell the sea air, feel the breeze on your face and the sand between your toes!
Tour Info
Times: Daily Departure times/days vary according to tidal conditions.
Departs: Nature Reserve gate at the base of Farewell Spit. Check in at Collingwood Office then drive 30 minutes to pick up point.
Running Time: 4.5 hours
Call Toll Free within New Zealand: 0800 808 257 to make firm reservations at least 72 hours in advance.
Please note some days the tour cannot operate due to tidal conditions.
Dont forget to bring a Jacket, Shoes for the beach, binoculars and camera.
There are approx. 5000 birds here and we can visit most of the time between September and April.
The Gannet Colony Tour travels beyond the Light house approx. 2 km, and you have a 20 minute walk across the flat sand on the spit's end to view the colony. You may get your feet wet here, as we stop to observe the gannets for 20 minutes. It is often a two way process - the gannets are very inquisitive and will fly low over us to get a better view. Enjoy a 20 minute walk back to the bus before the short ride to the lighthouse keepers cottage for refreshments. Explore the reserve and soak up the serenity. The last stop is to climb one of the huge dunes for a look into Golden bay and beyond. The Gannet Colony Tour is limited to 20 people per day so it is important to book in advance.
This spectacular sea bird usually chooses rocky outcrops as breeding and nesting sites. The Farewell Spit colony is the only one right at sea level, affording excellent views of the parent birds caring for their young. We have the only license granted by the Department of Conservation to visit this colony, which is New Zealand's newest nesting site for Gannets. To see them you walk beyond the Lighthouse (about 30 minutes) over the sand near the end of the Spit - you may get your feet wet.
Viewing Gannets is a two way process - the birds are known for their curiosity and often fly low over our visitors to get a closer look.
Tour Info
Times: Daily at 9am Departure times/days vary according to tidal conditions.
Running Time: 6.5 hours
Tours depart from Collingwood, Golden Bay and the tour is 6.5 hours in duration.
Please note that Colingwood, the point of departure is 2.5 hours drive from Nelson
Call Toll Free within New Zealand: 0800 808 257 to make firm reservations at least 72 hours in advance.
Please note some days the tour cannot operate due to tidal conditions.
Dont forget to bring a Jacket, Shoes for the beach, binoculars and camera
Rotorua Duck Tours has added the all new Tarawera & Lakes Tour to its itinerary.
Thats right - the amazing WWII Amphibious Landing Crafts are now visiting the stunning Lake Tarawera on a two hour lakes extravaganza.
Rotoruas rich history unfolds on this tour through Rotoruas lakes region. Come and learn about Maori migration 700 years ago through to todays Rotorua, the hustling bustling tourism and forestry capital of New Zealand.
The scenery, the history and of course the Duck make this trip Rotoruas latest must do activity, combining fun, learning and new experiences.
Your journey of discovery of Rotorua and its lakes region begins in central Rotorua where you will board your WWII Landing Craft and meet your legendary conDUCKtor who is in charge of the guided tour.
Our first lake visit is Lake Okareka with its amazing million dollar homes and abundance of bird life. Next we journey out past the Sacred Lake Rotokakahe (the Green Lake) to see the magnificent volcanic domes of Mount Tarawera.
Your second plunge will be into Lake Tarawera where you will hear the stories of the devastation of that fateful day of the eruption in 1886.
After cruising Tarawera amongst the local ducks and swans for 15 minutes you can disembark for your opportunity to capture the perfect picture and stretch your legs.
Your return trip brings into view Te Wairoa (The Buried Village) before splashing down into Tikitapu (the Blue Lake) your third lake visit.
Your homeward leg takes you past Rotoruas burgeoning Te Whakarewarewa Forest back to the sulphurous aroma of Rotorua.
This is a fun and enjoyable way to learn about Rotorua and New Zealands most picturesque Lakes Region.
Experience the sights, smells and tastes of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and Central Otago with New Zealand Guided Nature Walks and Appellation Central Wine Tours. The day starts with NZ Guided Nature Walk's popular lakeside walk followed by wine touring through the boutique vineyards of Central Otago.
Morning - Lakeshore, Forest and Bird nature walk
Departing Queenstown at 8am this half day, morning walk combines the best of native flora and fauna with magnificent lake and mountain views. Native birds are readily seen and heard, in and around the edges of the forest.
Walking time: 2 to 3 hours (optional) Walking distance: 2 to 5kms (optional - easy walking) Track: Well-formed - flat surface - some steps Highlights:Spectacular lake and mountain views and. A variety of bird life close at hand and easy to view. What to bring: Sensible footwear, a warm/sun hat, wet/wind/warm clothing for changeable weather, a small daypack and of course your camera.
* Small day packs and some wet weather gear is available on loan while on the walk.
A reasonable level of fitness will ensure an enjoyable walk.
Afternoon - Boutique Wine Tour of Central Otago
After your leisurely morning nature walk you will be dropped in central Queenstown to meet up with your Appellation Central guide. Your afternoon is spent discovering some of Appellation Central's favourite boutique vineyards, tasting some of the region's fine wines and enjoying a gourmet platter style lunch in a vineyard. A maximum of ten adults on this afternoon wine tour ensures a relaxed and personalised experience in wine country.
Nature Walk and Wine Tour Inclusions:
* Lakeshore guided nature walk
* Tasting at 4 wineries in the Gibbston Valley, Cromwell and Bannockburn regions
* A delightful platter style lunch at Carrick Winery restaurant
* A stunning drive through the Kawarau Gorge whilst learning about the early pioneering history of this rugged region
* Queenstown hotel pickup and dropoff
* Complimentary bottled mineral water during wine tour
* 12.5% New Zealand Goods and Services Tax
Total Time away: Allow 9 hours
Minimum numbers: Two persons (adult)
Booking Information
Please call Appellation Wine Tours on 64 3 442 0246, 24hrs in advance to reconfirm your tour and details of your hotel for pick up.
Travel north from Queenstown passing through the fruit growing area of Cromwell then Lindis Pass and the McKenzie Country. There will be a stop for lunch at Mount Cook Village (participants must make their own lunch arrangements) located at the foot of New Zealands highest peak Aorangi (Mount Cook).
Take a walk around the area or perhaps ask you driver about flight seeing options where you can experience some of the most dramatic alpine and glacier scenery in the world. We will then continue to Christchurch by a route that passes by Lake Tekapo and the Canterbury Plains.
This tour begins at 8:00 am in Queenstown and ends at approximately 6:30 pm in Christchurch.
INCLUSIONS:
Hotel pick ups/drop offs from select Queenstown hotels. Please click here for the Queenstown hotel pick up list.
EXCLUSIONS:
• Lunch
• Optional Gratuities
PLEASE NOTE:
Children ages 4 and under are free provided they do not occupy a seat.
Hotel drop offs will be either directly at the hotel or at the closest stop near the hotel
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
• Lindis Pass
• McKenzie Country
• Views of Aorangi (Mt Cook)
• Lake Tekapo
Travel from Christchurch past Lake Tekapo, Lindis Pass and the McKenzie Country. Stop for lunch (own expense) at Mount Cook Village which is located at the foot of New Zealands highest peak Aorangi (Mount Cook).
There will be approximately one hour at Mount Cook which leaves time for you to explore some of the walks in and around the village. Alternatively, flight seeing is highly recommended (at own cost) enabling you experience some of the most dramatic alpine and glacier scenery in the world. Afterwards, your tour continues to Queenstown via the fruit growing area of Cromwell.
This tour runs from approximately 7:30 am to 6:00 pm.
INCLUSIONS:
• Hotel pick ups/drop offs from select Christchurch hotels. Please click here for the Christchurch hotel pick up list.
PLEASE NOTE:
Children ages 4 and under are free provided they do not occupy a seat.
Hotel drop offs will be either directly at the hotel or at the closest stop near the hotel
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
• Lindis Pass
• McKenzie Country
• Views of Aorangi (Mt Cook)
• Lake Tekapo
Your tour commences with the central highlights of Christchurch including Cathedral Square, the Town Hall, Bridge of Remembrance, Christs College and original Provincial Government buildings.
Then travel along the beautiful, tree lined banks of Avon River to Mona Vale. At Mona Vale take a walk through the beautiful gardens and past the magnificent mansion located alongside the Avon River. In summer months see a stunning rose display planted for the international Rose World Conference held in 1994.
Reboard your coach and travel via Hagley Park up to the Port Hills through the exclusive hillside residential area of Cashmere, stopping at the sign of the Takahe for views across the Canterbury Plains (on clear days).
This tour runs from approximately 8:00 am to 11:00 am.
INCLUSIONS:
• Hotel pick ups/drop offs - select Christchurch hotels. Please click here for the Christchurch hotel pick up list.
EXCLUSIONS:
• Lunch
• Optional Gratuities
PLEASE NOTE:
Children ages 4 and under are free provided they do not occupy a seat.
Hotel drop offs will be either directly at the hotel or at the closest stop near the hotel
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
• Cathedral Square
• Avon River
• Mona Vale Gardens
• Sign of the Takahe
Journey through the Auckland central business district and past the Auckland University Campus before driving across the Auckland Harbour Bridge which offers great views of the city.
Return to the CBD and ascend Mt Eden for 360-degree views of the city and a 15-minute photo stop. Next is the Auckland Museum where a 50-minute stop is made. A donation of $5.00 per person is requested which passengers pay direct to Museum. Rest room and refreshment facilities are available.
Later, reboard your coach and pass through Parnell Rise, the Parnell Rose Gardens and Paritai Drive before arriving at Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. Kelly Tarltons is a wonderland of snow, ice and amazing underwater sights. Explore the wilds of Antarctica and the natural treasures of the ocean depths in this underwater world.
At 1:00 pm your driver will return to collect you from Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. You will be transferred to the Gray Line Office (172 Quay St) where you will be taken to the Harbour Cruise pier. Cruise the sparkling waters of Aucklands beautiful Waitemata Harbour and learn about the citys best-loved landmarks with full commentary from the knowledgeable crew. Highlights include a fish-eye view of the Harbour Bridge, Devonports historic naval base, Bean Rock Lighthouse, panoramic views of Rangitoto Island and the city skyline. The crew will serve you afternoon tea (a hot drink and a muffin).
Your cruise returns to the Ferry Terminal in downtown Auckland at approximately 3:00 pm where you will be transferred to the Sky Tower. This tour is open ended and finishes at the Sky Tower.
INCLUSIONS:
• Hotel pick up - select Auckland hotels. Please click here for the Auckland hotel pick up list.
• Admission to Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World
• 1.5 hour harbour cruise
• Admission to Sky Tower
• Afternoon tea/coffee and a muffin during the harbour cruise.
EXCLUSIONS:
• Optional Gratuities
• Lunch
• Hotel drop off - tour ends at the Sky Tower
• $5.00 per person donation at Auckland Museum
PLEASE NOTE:
Children under 5 are free provided they do not occupy a seat.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
• Auckland Harbour Bridge
• Mount Eden Summit
• Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World
• Harbour Cruise
• Sky Tower
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