Do I need to book a tour? It’s strongly advised for a few reasons. Firstly, this is the only place in the world where albatross nest on a mainland, so you don’t want to miss out! Secondly, the only way to get to the observatory to have the chance to see nesting albatross is on a guided tour. Bookings are subject to availability as each tour does have a capacity limit in order to meet permit requirements for entering the nature reserve.
– In the event of a tour cancellation prior to the tour commencing (due to weather conditions), a full refund or tour re-scheduling will apply.
– In the event of your trip being affected or cancelled by COVID-19, a full refund will be issued or the option to re-schedule your visit.
– Child policy – children rates apply to school aged children 5 – 17 years of age, children 4 yrs and under are free of charge.
To the wildlife reserve/albatross colony, access is granted by booking on a guided tour. Bookings are essential to guarantee a place on a tour. No self-guided tour options.
We are COVID-19 Safety Ready and approved by the Tourism Export Council:
If you are feeling ill or presenting symptoms of a cough, a high temperature or shortness of breath, you MUST leave site immediately and seek advice from health line on 0800 358 5453.
Anyone obliged to be in self isolation will be unable to visit us. We have the Covid-19 QR code located at the centre should anyone wish to utilise this, although this is no longer a requirement.
Under orange level we are currently taking up to 18 visitors on tours to our observatory and through Fort Taiaroa. We do require the appropriate use of a face mask both on tour and throughout our buildings. As alert levels change, our tour capacity and mask wearing requirements will change accordingly.
Our facilities are cleaned regularly throughout the day including high touch areas. Hand sanitisers are located in the centre and facilities. We advocate practicing good hygiene by using the washrooms to thoroughly wash your hands before entering our free information gallery and before joining our tours. All employees are required to stay home if they feel unwell.
We are entering a nature reserve, to keep our birds healthy and protected, we do ask parents to ensure children are quiet on tour so visitors and albatross are not disturbed. Our guides may ask parents to ensure children are quiet throughout the tour if required, and do reserve the right to ask parents with children to finish the tour early if they not adhering.
The closest public transport to the Centre terminates at Harington Point, 3.5kms from the Royal Albatross Centre. Public transport is not suitable as the bus does not stop or travel to the centre therefore requires a 30-40minute walk from Harington Point, which isn’t advised due to safety – there is no footpath.
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We offer Gold Card Holders and Ōtepoti Residents / Locals a 25% Discount off our Unique Taiaroa, Albatross Classic and Fort Taiaroa tours.