Clearwater Wildlife Tours (small group 10max) Otago Peninsula
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Fewer People - More Wildlife!
The Clearwater Family's Farm is home to more wildlife per square meter than anywhere in Dunedin.
The intimate small group tours offer the chance to see Yellow-eyed penguins, NZ sea lions, NZ fur seals, albatross plus a wide variety of birdlife, in the wild.
Your professionally guided tour of no more than 10 people will take you to the private beach & wildlife reserves through our working farm at Cape Saunders on the Otago Peninsula.
A wild and untamed, dramatic environment that we are lucky enough to share with some of New Zealand's rarest species.
The aim is to give you a truly authentic wildlife experience and leave you with memories that will last for a lifetime.
The Clearwater family has deep roots here and is devoted to preserving and enhancing its pristine beauty.
Become a part of our shared commitment to protect its natural wildlife habitats.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Level of fitness: This tour requires a moderate level of fitness. There are some hills to walk up and down and the beach walk also includes walking on sand and uneven ground. There are also several sets of steps and stairs therefore the terrain visited is not suitable for persons with walking disabilities.
Clothing: Our tours are an outdoor activity in a land where maritime weather prevails, the weather can change very quickly, regardless of the season. Always bring warm and waterproof clothes. For those that are unprepared we provide wind and rain proof jackets.
Footwear: Walking shoes/boots with good tread are recommended and necessary if conditions are wet or muddy.
Food: Tours are 4 hours in duration, so guests are welcome to bring pre-packed food and drink as there are no opportunities to stop for food during our tours.
Children: Small children might have difficulty keeping up on the trails. For safety reasons children are not able to sit on an adult's lap.
Medicines: Personal medicines etc. should be carried if required on all tours. Any medical condition which could potentially be a problem should be communicated to your guide at the start of a tour.
Photography: There will be some amazing photo opportunities during our tours so bring your best camera.
Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.
Cruise Ship Passengers - Please advise us of the name of the cruise ship you are arriving on.
Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Otago Peninsula
Voted in the Top 10 of Things to Do in NZ for 2025! The journey to Cape Saunders takes you through the beautiful backcountry and inlets of the Otago Peninsula where you will see a variety of wetland and wading birds amid breath-taking scenery. Arrive at Cape Saunders farm and experience a uniquely secluded breeding colony of NZ fur seals and a variety of sea birds from two stunning viewing locations overlooking the wild and rugged Pacific Ocean. We then journey to our native conservation reserve where our knowledgeable and experienced staff will guide you to vital breeding grounds for yellow-eyed penguins and New Zealand sea lions. Witness this special place from several viewing hides and secluded locations while exploring one of NZ’s most beautiful untouched natural beaches. After embarking on a spectacular wildlife experience and witnessing unforgettable vistas and breathtaking coastal beach and shore environments we complete the journey back to your pick up location.
What‘s Included
There are toilet facilities at the farm and at our meeting point in the Octagon.
Complimentary High Quality Binoculars
Complimentary wind & rain proof jackets
Air-conditioned vehicle
We have complimentary water & cookies on board
There are no food stops along the way. Guests are welcome to bring a packed lunch or snacks.
Our tour is not suitable for children under 5 years of age
Options
Clearwater Wildlife Tours (small group 10max) Otago Peninsula
Reviews
538 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing variety of...
David,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing variety of wildlife in beautiful setting around the Clearwater farm property. Guides are very knowledgeable and tour includes binoculars and heavy raincoats if you experience wet weather. Very well done.
Must do tour when in Dunedin
Betty F,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing experience to see seals, sea lions and a penguin Our guide was great spotting various wildlife for us. The beach was spectacular as well.
Wildlife tour - Otago
Helen M,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00An absolutely fabulous excursion with our guide Ben. The trip along the Otago peninsula was beautiful & we saw so many birds. Ben’s knowledge was second to none & his enthusiasm was infectious. The hide provided to look at the seal rookery was unbelievable - what an experience to see baby fur seals swimming in the rock pools & playing together - a memory to treasure! Add the sea lions & penguin - what a trip!
Wonderful small group experience
Paul B,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fabulous small group, wonderful location. Felt very intimate. Kelly was so knowledgeable and informative, worth the trip for her commentary alone
An amazing trip
T7459VUhannahm,,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing time on this tour. Our guide Fergus was insightful, very informed about the region, friendly and not afraid to help us get as close as possible and safe to the sea lions. We observed yellow eyed penguins and their baby- we know thanks to Fergus' enthusiasm how rare and special this was. Thank you so much
4 hour wildlife evening trip
shF8326TA,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A great trip. Our guide Adrian was excellent, his knowledge of wildlife and the area was superb. He was always willing to answer questions and had a good sense of humour! Despite wet weather, and poor visibility for some of the scenery, the experience was not disappointing at all. Having the loan of the wet weather jackets also kept us dry! We saw 5 yellow eyed penguins, sea lions, NZ fur seals and their pups along with albatross and many other birds. Highly recommend this trip for a truly unique experience in a slice of paradise!
Amazing wildlife tour
Jessica W,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolute must do in Dunedin! We saw baby fur seals, albatross, yellow eyed penguins, and sea lions! Quinn was a knowledgeable and fun guide. I wish I could do this weekly! I especially love how protective and respectful of the wildlife the family and your guides are.
Truly awesome insight in New Zealand's wildlife along the shore
HaoD38,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Magnificent tour with insight and wildlife entertainment. We saw so many birds, fur seals, sea lions and even spotted a Hoiho penguin on a hill. The scenery is breathtaking! The concept of a very small group participating and keeping our distance from the animals as well as keeping our impact on them to a minimum is ecologically friendly and reasonable. Also, Tom is an excellent driver with endless patience and superb people skills. I would definitely book another tour with him again!
Amazing experience!
katj425,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a day! My son and I are so glad we made the decision to lock this experience in. The small group, comfy bus and super knowledgeable guide made it a highlight of our NZ trip so far. The wildlife was incredible and the views spectacular. Worth every cent - especially when you’re a bit off the beaten track and experiencing it without the crowds. We saw numerous types of birds, seals playing in the rock pools, sea lions strutting their stuff and a yellow eyed penguin making its way up the hill (or stopping for a long, well deserved break). Very friendly group of people from across the world on the bus and we would highly recommend it to others. Thank you for a great day, Tom!
Great way to get to know Dunedin and the local wildlife
Frauke B,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Adrian was an amazing guide to the peninsula as well as the local wildlife. Besides showing us the wildlife - birds, fur seals, sea lions and penguins - he also shared great stories. He also gets a bonus point for not rushing the visit and allowing us to stay longer to observe the penguins.
From NZ$225.00
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Operated by Clearwater Wildlife Tours