Fantail Tours in Dunedin

05/02/2025

Great way to spend tomorrow by visiting Albatross centre!

Tomorrow is Waitangi Day, 6 February, and marks 185 years since the initial signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi ✨

For tomorrow, we will be offering free tickets for children on our guided Albatross Classic and Unique Taiaroa tours (new in-person bookings only), so bring your family along!

Te Tiriti was meant to be a partnership, an agreement between Māori and the British Crown to create unity between the two groups, but different translations and interpretations of the treaty has caused conflict.

Te Tiriti was signed just by Takiharuru Pilots Beach on 13 June 1840, just below where the Royal Albatross Centre is located today. This headland has incredible historical significance 💙

We hope to see you all here to help us celebrate.

04/02/2025

During our visit to the OPERA, we watched juvenile yellow-eyed penguins act just like playful kids! There were plenty of cabbage tree leaves scattered around, but as soon as one chick grabbed a leaf, the others couldn’t resist rushing over to join in—like a bunch of kids fighting over the same toy!

05/01/2025

Did you know that Little Blue Penguins are fast runners? We were reminded of this yesterday while watching the penguins return to Pilot's Beach. We saw some chicks eagerly leaving their nests, unable to wait any longer for their parents to bring food.

05/01/2025

We had a truly enjoyable visit to the Opera. The views were absolutely stunning, with New Zealand fur seals rolling and swimming everywhere. We also spotted little blue penguins nestled in their homes, while yellow-eyed penguins returned to their nests to swap places with their partners. At the rehabilitation center, we saw some juvenile penguins and chicks receiving extra care before they’re ready to head back into the wild. We feel so lucky to have experienced all of that—it was truly unforgettable! Thanks to our guide at the OPERA, Siobhan, for not rushing back and letting us enjoy the penguin return.

05/01/2025

Yellow Eyed Penguins returning from the beach at the OPERA.

05/01/2025

It's been a penguin night. We saw three yellow eyed penguins returning from the ocean

31/12/2024

Today, we visited the OPERA Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance and had the opportunity to see several yellow-eyed penguins at their rehabilitation center. These penguins are recovering and will soon be ready for release back into the wild. Some of the penguins did not yet have the characteristic yellow stripe around their heads, as they are still juveniles. The yellow coloration will develop as they molt and grow their adult feathers.

29/12/2024

A few days ago, while walking along the beach, we spotted several blue bottle jellyfish (*Physalia physalis*) washed up on the shore. These creatures, also known as Portuguese man o' war, are often mistaken for jellyfish but are actually colonial organisms made up of several smaller polyps. Despite their striking blue color and intriguing appearance, they can be dangerous. Their tentacles, which can extend up to 10 meters, contain venomous stinging cells that can cause painful rashes, welts, or even more severe reactions like nausea or difficulty breathing. Even if the jellyfish appears to be dead, the venom can still be active, so it's crucial to avoid touching them. If you come across one, keep a safe distance, and if stung, rinse the area with seawater (not fresh water) and seek medical attention if necessary. Always be cautious when encountering marine life on the shore, as some can pose hidden dangers.

25/12/2024

We wish everyone Merry Christmas!

19/12/2024

While enjoying a scenic drive along the inlets of Otago Peninsula, we spotted a couple of female sea lions resting at the water's edge, just by the road. Though they blend in on sandy beaches, they stood out against the vibrant green grass.

14/12/2024

Did you know that yellow-eyed penguins can dive as deep as 120 meters, while little blue penguins typically dive to around 10 meters? In contrast, the northern royal albatross only dives about 1 meter deep.

03/12/2024

New Zealand sea lions are increasingly frequenting city shorelines, often sharing beaches with people, particularly females. This one found a cozy spot nestled between sandbags that help protect the dunes from erosion.
On most days, if you walk from St Kilda to St Clair, you’ll spot female sea lions blending seamlessly with the sand.

24/11/2024

Did you know you can visit a beautifully refurbished Maritime Museum in Port Chalmers, just 5 minutes from where cruise ships dock? It's a hidden gem, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of the port and how it used to be. Definitely worth a visit!

18/11/2024

Baldwin Street in Dunedin is famous for being the steepest street in the world, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique experience. Visitors can challenge themselves by walking up the 35% incline, enjoying the stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes as they go. For an added thrill, some even attempt the Baldwin Street Gutbuster race, an annual event that tests both endurance and strength. Whether you're up for the physical challenge or just want to snap a photo at this iconic location, Baldwin Street offers a one-of-a-kind adventure for both tourists and locals alike.

18/11/2024

Today, as we journeyed through the stunning Otago Peninsula, we were treated to more than just breathtaking views and vibrant colors. The landscape seemed to come alive with the sight of contented cows grazing peacefully in lush, rolling pastures, their calm presence adding a touch of warmth to the already picturesque scenery. The soft hues of the ocean and sky blended seamlessly with the green expanse of the land, creating a truly serene and joyful atmosphere that felt like a perfect harmony of nature.

05/11/2024

With The Royal Albatross Centre – I just made it onto their weekly engagement list by being one of their top engagers! 🎉

13/10/2024

Have you been at Dunedin Botanic Garden recently? It's gorgeous!

10/10/2024

We spoilt by the views this morning while on the way to the castle!