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You will see
- Armstrong Disappearing Gun
- Interactive displays, gift shop
- Otago Peninsula
- Royal Albatross
- Short film on albatross
- Stunning scenery
- Taiaroa Head
- Underground historic tunnels
This tour is the best and most popular way to experience Taiaroa Head's history and wildlife.
This 1.5 hour fully guided tour will tell you the story of the Northern Royal Albatross and the People history of Pukekura/Taiaroa Head.
From a small Maori camp in the 1300s to a fortified Pa where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840;
From a wooden flagstaff to an 1864 lighthouse at the entrance to Otago Harbour;
From an 1880s underground fort to a large defence base in WWII.
Taiaroa Head is today a Nature Reserve and iconic wildlife attraction.Transport from the cruise ship to this attraction is not included in the ticket cost, you will need to make your own arrangements.
- Entry to Albatross and Fort tours
- Full commentary from your group guide
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
- Flash photography is not allowed on our tours as this can cause disturbance to the wildlife. Please assist the Albatross Centre to be respectful of the welfare of the wildlife.
- 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
- Flash photography is not allowed on our tours as this can cause disturbance to the wildlife. Please assist the Albatross Centre to be respectful of the welfare of the wildlife.
- This is a rugged environment. A reasonable level of fitness is required to walk from the Centre to the observatory.
Experience Schedule Options | ||
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| start time | end time | |
Experience Prices (current) | |
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| Adult price | NZ $70.00 |
| Child price (5 to 17 yrs) | NZ $20.00 |
Experience Prices (from: Wed 1 Oct 2025) | |
|---|---|
| Adult price | NZ $75.00 |
| Child price (5 to 17 yrs) | NZ $20.00 |
NOTE: Prices may vary depending on your Date of Travel.
Our Booking procedures quote the applicable prices before you commit to a Booking.
Is there public access to the wildlife reserve?
There is no public access to the wildlife reserve, access is granted by booking on a guided tour. Bookings are essential to guarantee a place on a tour.
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.
Who owns the Royal Albatross Centre?
The Royal Albatross Centre is owned and operated by a charitable trust. All surplus funds generated by the enterprise are returned to projects which protect and enhance the environment and wildlife of Dunedin's Otago Peninsula.
How close can we get to the albatross?
Viewing of the albatrosses on a guided tour are from within an observatory. A one way glass and sound deadening system is in place to minimise our disturbance to the nesting albatrosses. Binoculars are available for close up viewing.
How far away from the Dunedin city centre are you?
The Royal Albatross Centre is a 32km scenic drive from Dunedin city centre.
Is there anywhere to buy food at the Royal Albatross Centre?
Yes there is. We have a wonderful glass enclosed cafe so there is even a chance of seeing albatross flying by! Morning and afternoon teas, scones, muffins, lunch delicacies including vegetarian options.
Is this tour wheelchair friendly?
The Albatross tour can accommodate wheelchairs but unfortunately the Fort visit can't due to the age of the tunnels and them being created for warfare purposes
