Join Fantail Tours for a captivating 5-6 hour journey through Dunedin city and the Otago Peninsula. Witness iconic architecture and encounter rare Yellow-Eyed Penguins in a protected sanctuary.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with minimal walking required outside Penguin Place where uneven ground exists.
Wildlife
History
Dunedin Railway Station opened in 1906 and remains one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most photographed historic buildings.
Conservation
Penguin Place operates as a private conservation reserve focusing on preserving the endangered Yellow-Eyed Penguin through controlled visitor access and habitat management.
Fantail Tours
Join Fantail Tours for a captivating 5-6 hour journey through Dunedin city and the Otago Peninsula. Witness iconic architecture and encounter rare Yellow-Eyed Penguins in a protected sanctuary.
Fantail Tours is a Dunedin-based tour operator offering guided small-group and private tours across Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. The company showcases local heritage, wildlife and scenery through a diverse range of experiences, from one-hour Honey Hive and Bees sessions to full six-hour city and peninsula excursions. Highlights include guided visits to Larnach Castle and its gardens, a private or small-group look at Dunedin city highlights such as Baldwin Street and the Dunedin Railway Station, and multiple wildlife-focused outings to the Royal Albatross Centre and Penguin Place.
Tours blend cultural history with natural history: city heritage routes visit Olveston, Signal Hill, and the Botanic Garden, while peninsula journeys travel Highcliff Road and coastal overlooks for scenic photography. Wildlife options feature evening Little Blue Penguin viewing at sunset, guided albatross tours, and opportunities to spot yellow-eyed and little blue penguins in their habitats. The Honey Hive and Bees Tour provides hands-on beekeeping insights, frame handling, and conservation education in a short interactive session.
Fantail Tours offers private customizable itineraries for groups up to six and small group departures for more social experiences. Local guides focus on storytelling, accessible pacing, and photo opportunities tailored to guest interests. Visitors choose Fantail Tours for varied durations, wildlife encounters, and curated heritage tours centered on Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Services include both morning and afternoon departures, flexible pick-up from Port Chalmers or central Dunedin, and options tailored to photographers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts. Guides provide local insights and responsible wildlife viewing practices for visitors.
Location
Dunedin, Otago
Based in Dunedin, New Zealand
Tours Offered
11
Small-group and private options
Duration Range
1–6 hours
Short sessions to full day tours
Highlights
Larnach, Albatross, Penguins, Bees
Heritage, wildlife and beekeeping
Reserve small-group or private tours to Larnach Castle, Royal Albatross, Penguin Place or the Honey Hive — availability varies seasonally, so check departure times and book early.
Book Early for Peak Season
Tours fill quickly in summer and during cruise ship schedules; reserve your spot well in advance.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The Penguin Place tour involves uneven terrain and tunnels—comfortable, supportive shoes are essential.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
Wildlife like Yellow-Eyed Penguins keep their distance. A zoom lens or good binoculars enhance viewing experiences.
Mind the Quiet Zones
Respect the silence required at Penguin Place to avoid disturbing the endangered wildlife.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides support and traction on uneven terrain at Penguin Place.
Sunscreen
Protects skin during extended time outside in strong sun.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances distant wildlife viewing on the peninsula.
Light rain jacket
Keeps you comfortable during sudden showers or coastal winds.
spring|fall|winter