Self Drive Evening Penguin Tour
Duration
2 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
Languages
English
Skip the line
Included
Visit the largest mainland Australasian Little Penguin colony
Learn about decades of family led penguin conservation efforts
Scenic drive across Akaroa volcanic landscape with photo stops
Guided walk through Pōhatu Bay monitoring active penguin nesting sites
€ 38.68
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Pōhatu is the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand, and for more than three decades the local family has been dedicated to protecting Kororā, also known as the White Flippered Penguin, Canterbury’s own unique variant of the Australasian Little Penguin. The experience begins with a scenic drive across Akaroa’s extinct volcanic landscape, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities along the way. On arrival at the peaceful setting of Pōhatu Bay, you will set out on a guided walk around the colony to monitor nesting sites, gaining firsthand insight into the long term conservation work that helps protect these penguins from introduced predators.
As you take part in the monitoring program, you will learn in depth about penguin behavior, daily routines, and the challenges they face, while enjoying the rare opportunity to observe the birds up close. From specially designed hides, you can watch penguins undisturbed as they socialize on the water using provided binoculars and telescopes. As evening approaches, there is a strong chance of seeing penguins returning to shore and resting on the rocks before heading to their nests. The tour concludes before darkness falls, allowing the penguins to move freely and feed their chicks without disturbance, while you leave with a deeper appreciation of their fragile world.
FourWD backcountry transport
Rare sheep welcome
Penguin conservation walk
Nesting site monitoring
Camouflaged penguin viewing
Evening penguin landing
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Sturdy walking shoes
Warm clothing recommended
Sunglasses & sunscreen
Camera
Have a camera ready to capture every special moment
Maximum number of passengers 12 People
Minimum age of participants is 2 years
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
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Activity Provider: Pohatu Penguins
Customer Reviews
Marin
You're looking for deers, right? Don't worry, you don't have to go too far, usually. From the city on foot it takes about 40 minutes total. 10 minutes after you pass the main gate, on your left, there are a lot of rugby playgrounds. If you see a lot of people going there, or just randomly walking through the grass - probably deers. Be careful though, a lot of males, and they are wild animals, don't approach them.
Ionela
Absolutely amazing! Definitely worth the visit, looking forward to coming back during a warmer season (we visited in December). We were lucky to also see the deer. If you're an outdoorsy person, book an entire day to spend here, you'll not regret it.
Noah
Absolutely beautiful park that is home to numerous historical sites and even the Irish president. Supposedly there is also a large population of fallow deer but unfortunately I never got to see any.
Harsh
One of the most magical places in Dublin, so close to city center it is the biggest park of such proximity in Europe. If you are looking for nature, huge green areas , deers, trees then this might be a good day out. You can use public transport which takes you straight into the visitor center or you can freeroam by car.
Burak
It’s known as the largest park in Europe and truly captivates you with its stunning natural beauty. As you stroll through, you can see squirrels, deer, and even graceful fallow deer roaming freely in their natural habitat. If you’re gentle and patient, you might even be able to get close enough to pet them, as some of them are surprisingly friendly. However, keep in mind that feeding the animals is strictly prohibited, so it’s important to respect this rule for their safety and well-being. The park is the perfect spot for long nature walks, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful escape from the busy city life. Whether you visit early in the morning when the mist still lingers over the grass, or later in the day when sunlight filters through the trees, the atmosphere is always magical. You’ll come across wide open fields, serene lakes, and winding paths that make every step feel like part of an adventure. It’s definitely a must-see destination that you should include in your trip. And one last piece of advice — make sure you’re wearing comfortable walking shoes, because you’ll be covering quite a distance as you explore this enchanting natural wonder.