papanui beach

Essential Information

Clearwater Wildlife Tours

Things to know

Please also see Departure Locations and Essential Information below

The wildlife is untrained and unpredictable, and we cannot guarantee that you will see every species, but we do guarantee we will do everything we can to give you the best animal viewing possible.

We travel the coast road and the back roads of the Otago Peninsula and on our farm tracks at Cape Saunders with a maximum of 10 guests per group.  Our guides are experienced and are confident drivers, and our comfortable vehicles are all 4WD.

We supply high quality binoculars and spare wet weather jackets and there are toilet facilities at the farm.

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 or refreshments during our tours.

Departure Times and Locations

Please check in 15 minutes prior to the tour departure time to confirm your arrival. Please allow plenty of time if parking near the Octagon in Central Dunedin. There are several long term parking options but these can be limited at peak times.

penguin closeup

Wild One Tour

Clearwater Wildlife tour vehicles depart from outside the Dunedin
I-Site Visitor Centre, The Octagon, Central Dunedin

Kingfisher7

Wild Private Tours

Departure locations and drop offs are prearranged as part of your private itinerary.

Essential Information

  1. Level of fitness: This tour requires a reasonable level of fitness. There are some hills to walk up and down. There are also several sets of steps and stairs therefore the terrain visited is not suitable for persons with walking disabilities or wheelchairs. Small children might have difficulty keeping up on the trails - we recommend bringing a front back or carrier for small children. The terrain is not suitable for strollers or prams.
  2. Clothing: Our tours are an outdoor activity in a land where maritime weather prevails, the weather can change very quickly, regardless of the season. Please bring warm and waterproof clothing.  We provide complementary wind and rain proof jackets for anyone feeling unprepared.
  3. Footwear: Walking shoes/boots with good tread are recommended and necessary if conditions are wet or muddy.
  4. 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.
  5. Children: Small children might have difficulty keeping up on the trails - we recommend bringing a front back or carrier for small children and travelers must bring their own car seats for small children. For safety reasons children are not able to sit on an adult's lap.
  6. 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.
  7. Photography: There will be some amazing photo opportunities during our tours, but we do not allow close up flash photography of wildlife as this may startle or injure them. Please ensure that you are familiar with your camera options or ask one of our friendly team for advice.