Join a ten-person guided tour across a working farm to secluded beaches and conservation hides on Otago Peninsula. Expect close encounters with yellow-eyed penguins, NZ sea lions and albatross in a dramatic coastal setting.
Join a ten-person guided tour across a working farm to secluded beaches and conservation hides on Otago Peninsula. Expect close encounters with yellow-eyed penguins, NZ sea lions and albatross in a dramatic coastal setting.
A salt-cut wind meets the vehicle as it drops you off at the edge of Cape Saunders, and the Pacific seems to push the shoreline into sharp relief. On Clearwater’s small-group tour, ten people move quietly across a working family farm toward hidden beaches and coastal reserves. Guides keep voices low; tide-sculpted cliffs and reef-strewn sand make every vantage feel deliberate.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Clearwater Wildlife Tours · Dunedin, Otago
A salt-cut wind meets the vehicle as it drops you off at the edge of Cape Saunders, and the Pacific seems to push the shoreline into sharp relief. On Clearwater’s small-group tour, ten people move quietly across a working family farm toward hidden beaches and coastal reserves. Guides keep voices low; tide-sculpted cliffs and reef-strewn sand make every vantage feel deliberate.
The Otago Peninsula is the product of ancient volcanic flows and coastal uplift — cliffs of basalt and sediment cliffs sliced by surf — creating protected bays ideal for marine mammals and shorebirds. Māori used these headlands seasonally; more recently, farmers like the Clearwater family have worked alongside conservationists to protect breeding grounds for yellow-eyed penguins and New Zealand sea lions.
Expect guided walks (about 1.5 km total on mixed terrain), pauses at viewing hides, and long looks across a wild, fast-moving ocean. Birdlife dominates the air: wandering albatross and various gulls wheel above, while penguins and fur seals claim the rocks below. Guides supply high-quality binoculars, windproof jackets and local interpretation; guests should be ready for variable maritime weather and occasional muddy or sandy sections.
Practical notes: arrive at the Dunedin i-Site 10 minutes early for pickup; bring layered waterproof clothing, sturdy treaded footwear, snacks and any personal medications. Photography opportunities are frequent but respect breeding zones and guide instructions — the best wildlife encounters come from patient observation, quiet movement and following local guidance.
Common sightings include yellow-eyed penguins, New Zealand sea lions, NZ fur seals and a variety of seabirds such as albatross and gulls, though wildlife is never guaranteed.
Expect roughly 1.5 km of walking on mixed terrain—sandy beach, farm tracks and steps; there are rest spots and viewing hides along the way.
Not recommended for children under 5 or guests with significant mobility issues due to stairs and uneven ground; notify guides of special needs before booking.
Meet outside the Dunedin i-Site Visitor Information Centre at 50 The Octagon; arrive at least 10 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and parking.
Clearwater Wildlife Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




A salt-cut wind meets the vehicle as it drops you off at the edge of Cape Saunders, and the Pacific seems to push the shoreline into sharp relief. On Clearwater’s small-group tour, ten people move quietly across a working family farm toward hidden beaches and coastal reserves. Guides keep voices low; tide-sculpted cliffs and reef-strewn sand make every vantage feel deliberate.
A salt-cut wind meets the vehicle as it drops you off at the edge of Cape Saunders, and the Pacific seems to push the shoreline into sharp relief. On Clearwater’s small-group tour, ten people move quietly across a working family farm toward hidden beaches and coastal reserves. Guides keep voices low; tide-sculpted cliffs and reef-strewn sand make every vantage feel deliberate.
The Otago Peninsula is the product of ancient volcanic flows and coastal uplift — cliffs of basalt and sediment cliffs sliced by surf — creating protected bays ideal for marine mammals and shorebirds. Māori used these headlands seasonally; more recently, farmers like the Clearwater family have worked alongside conservationists to protect breeding grounds for yellow-eyed penguins and New Zealand sea lions.
Expect guided walks (about 1.5 km total on mixed terrain), pauses at viewing hides, and long looks across a wild, fast-moving ocean. Birdlife dominates the air: wandering albatross and various gulls wheel above, while penguins and fur seals claim the rocks below. Guides supply high-quality binoculars, windproof jackets and local interpretation; guests should be ready for variable maritime weather and occasional muddy or sandy sections.
Practical notes: arrive at the Dunedin i-Site 10 minutes early for pickup; bring layered waterproof clothing, sturdy treaded footwear, snacks and any personal medications. Photography opportunities are frequent but respect breeding zones and guide instructions — the best wildlife encounters come from patient observation, quiet movement and following local guidance.