Royal Albatross colony

The only mainland albatross nesting site in the world. It is an hour's drive along the western coast of Otago Peninsula on a road that skirts the water for most of its length without any guardrail. In places, the city buses which frequent the road are wider than the lanes (the local traffic is used to this, and drives very carefully), so if you don't trust your driving reflexes, take a coach instead. Albatrosses may be seen during the summer months, as well as other wildlife at all times of the year. Guided tours of the colony and the old fortifications on and under the headland are conducted daily.

• family

Address

Taiaroa Head, 1260 Harrington Point Rd, Otago Peninsula

Getting there

at Taiaroa Head

Hours

10:15AM to dusk

Price

The Albatross Classic tour (adult $52, child $15, family $115). The Unique Taiaroa Experience tour (adult $62, child $20, family $134)

Website

albatross.org.nz (opens in a new tab)