Dunedin Wildlife - discover the unique wildlife of the Dunedin area; penguins, the royal abatross, seals, and more
Penguins on the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand
A seal on the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin, New Zealand

Dunedin Wildlife

Otago Peninsula and Dunedin's southern coastal beaches are home to a variety of marine wildlife. As well as various seabirds and waders living along the coast, Taiaroa Head is home to a colony of Northern Royal Albatrosses, a sea bird with an impressive three metre (120 inch) wingspan.

The Peninsula is also home to colonies of Little Blue Penguins, the smallest penguins in the world, as well as being an important breeding habitat for the endangered Yellow Eye Penguin.

New Zealand Fur Seals regularly inhabit the beaches, and sea lions and sea elephants often come ashore, especially at night. Hooker’s Sea Lions, Leopard Seals and Southern Sea Elephants are known to frequent the beaches.

There are various walks, tours and cruises around the peninsula in which to experience this unique place, with proceeds often going towards the upkeep of the conservation reserves.


Featured Wildlife Activities

Invercargill to Dunedin with Stewart Island Option

Invercargill to Dunedin with Stewart Island Option

Day Tour - Invercargill - Starting from $225.00 per person

Depart from Invercargill at 8.30am or Bluff at 9.15am and spend the day with one of our experienced Driver/Guides exploring the beautiful Catlins. Partake in short walks through Native New Zealand forest and along sandy beaches for the chance to view waterfalls and Native New Zealand wildlife, such as Sea Lions and Yellow Eyed penguins if they are about. 

We also make various stops throughout the day for photo opportunities at scenic view points so be sure to remember your... More...


Taieri Gorge Railway and the Otago Peninsula Day Trip from Dunedin

Taieri Gorge Railway and the Otago Peninsula Day Trip from Dunedin

Day Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $199.00 per person

Explore the South Island’s gorgeous scenery on a full-day excursion from Dunedin. In the morning, travel aboard the Taieri Gorge Railway through stunning mountain landscapes en route to Pukerangi. Then return to Dunedin for an afternoon tour of the Otago Peninsula by minivan. Get personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide on this small-group tour limited to 19 people. More...

Peninsula Cruise/Bus from Dunedin - half day

Peninsula Cruise/Bus from Dunedin - half day

Half-day Tour - Dunedin - Starting from NZ $89.00 per person

Cruise the length of the beautiful Otago Harbour before embarking on an exploration of Taiaroa Head's spectacular wildlife and a scenic Otago Peninsula bus tour. An unforgettable experience awaits; get up close to the wealth of wildlife and be fascinated and exhilarated by the dramatic views of Otago Peninsula and the South Pacific Ocean.

Experience unrivalled viewing of the exciting and diverse wildlife that makes its home on Otago Peninsula's spectacular Taiaroa Head. Visit the world's... More...

Larnach Castle & Gardens Tour from Dunedin

Larnach Castle & Gardens Tour from Dunedin

Castle - Dunedin - Starting from $70.00 per person

Explore New Zealand`s only castle with Headfirst Travel

You will be picked-up at the Dunedin i-Site (50 The Octagon) at 10am (Summer), 2pm (Summer Only) or 9am Winter. Please note that pick up from Port Chalmers is not included. Enjoy a 30 minute scenic drive to Larnach Castle where a 45 minute Guided tour of the castle itself is included in your tour. After your guided tour of Larnach Castle enjoy 45 minutes of free time to relax in their cafe or explore the beautiful grounds. A 1... More...


Dunedin City, Wildlife and Scenery Tour

Dunedin City, Wildlife and Scenery Tour

Maori - - Starting from $119.00 per person

Explore spectacular Dunedin city and Otago Peninsula on this full-day small group tour (6 people Max). Visit Baldwin St (steepest street in the world), the University of Otago and Dunedin’s famous Scottish heritage sites. Then we will travel alongside the picturesque Otago harbour and head across to Sandfly Bay to spot local wildlife. Lunch is taken at the beautiful and historic Larnach Castle. We then journey to the rugged coastline and a visit to unique Tunnel Beach. More...


Lookout Point View - Homestay.

Situated in Dunedin, 8 km from Otago Museum and 8 km from Forsyth Barr Stadium, Lookout Point View offers air...

Dunedin Self Guided Audio TourDunedin Self Guided Audio Tour - Audio Guide - Dunedin. Starting from $29.94 per person.

This historic audio tour of the intriguing city of Dunedin will take you on a culturally significant journey where you...

 

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