Don’t miss your chance to visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross / Toroa in Aotearoa’s wildlife capital – Dunedin! Learn all about the breeding cycle of these majestic birds, as you watch them soar with their three metre wingspans from our Richdale Observatory.

Tours take place throughout the day, and bookings are recommended. We offer a 60 minutes guided wildlife tour, the Albatross Classic. This tells the story of the Northern Royal Albatross, followed by a short movie by Natural History New Zealand, then a visit to our viewing observatory to watch the nesting albatross. Nowhere else in the world can you enjoy the privilege of viewing these majestic seabirds in their natural environment!

Our 90 minute tour Unique Taiaroa tour includes the Albatross tour, and then adds on a visit through the old tunnels underneath the headland, and views the impressive Disappearing Armstrong Gun – placed in 1886! A phenomenal way to experience all the headland here has to offer.

Not sure what you will see during your visit, click here to view the Albatross Lifecycle or contact us for viewing expectations today! More Information – FAQ’s 

The Royal Albatross Centre is operated by a not-for-profit charitable trust. A proportion of every ticket sold at the Royal Albatross Centre goes directly towards the fostering and protection of the Northern Royal Albatross.

Please note: Viewing the albatross nesting area is by guided tour only. There is no public access or self-guided options.

Albatross viewing: The albatross are wild and therefore freely come and go at their own pleasure. From mid-Sept to mid-Nov, 80% of tours will see albatross, but this is not guaranteed through this time.