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You will see
- Armstrong Disappearing Gun
- Stunning scenery
- Taiaroa Head
- Underground, historic tunnels
Now you see it, now you don't!
Experience the fully restored and fabulous Armstrong Disappearing Gun.
This 30 minute guided tour of underground Fort Taiaroa introduces you to the social, strategic and military importance of Taiaroa Head as the site of a Maori fortified Pa and the European Fort Taiaroa. Built on the headland to counter the potential threat of a Russian invasion in the late 1880s is was later used for training and defence during WWI and WWII.
The tour goes underground through historic tunnels and will include a visit to the world's only working,fully restored 1886 Armstrong Disappearing Gun in its original position.Transport from the cruise ship to this attraction is not included in the ticket cost, you will need to make your own arrangements.
- Guided tour of the Fort
Not Included
- Meals or refreshments
- Transport from the cruise ship to this attraction is not included in the ticket cost, you will need to make your own arrangements.
Instructions
- Note that this tour starts from the Albatross Centre so you will need to make your own way to the centre. Why not hire a self drive rental car or hire a private vehicle and guide?
- This is an outdoor activity in a land where maritime weather prevails and the weather can change very quickly on the Otago Peninsula year round. Bring warm and waterproof clothes and solid footwear is required. Jackets can be provided upon request.
Restrictions
- This is a rugged environment. A reasonable level of fitness is required to walk from the Centre to the Fort.
Experience Schedule Options | ||
|---|---|---|
| start time | end time | |
| 1pm departure | 13:00 | 13:30 |
| 2pm departure | 14:00 | 14:30 |
| 3pm departure | 15:00 | 15:30 |
| 4pm departure | 16:00 | 16:30 |
Experience Prices (current) | |
|---|---|
| Adult price | NZ $30.00 |
| Child price (5 to 17 yrs) | NZ $10.00 |
Experience Prices (from: Wed 1 Oct 2025) | |
|---|---|
| Adult price | NZ $35.00 |
| Child price (5 to 17 yrs) | NZ $10.00 |
NOTE: Prices may vary depending on your Date of Travel.
Our Booking procedures quote the applicable prices before you commit to a Booking.
Can I visit the centre without taking the tour?
Yes you can. Visitors to Taiaroa Head who do not wish to go on tour are welcome to visit the Royal Albatross Centre free of charge. This includes access to the interactive gallery, cafe and gift shop. We ask that you make a small donation if you wish to use the restroom facilities.
I am in a wheelchair. Is it possible for me to get around on the walk?
Unfortunately this tour is not wheelchair friendly due to the places we visit being created in 1886 for warfare purposes.
