GETTING TO KNOW THE ROYAL ALBATROSS
Visit Dunedin as a student group and experience our most iconic Dunedin wildlife. We can cater for groups of 12 to 25 students.
Prices for 90 minute tour: All year round – International Adults and Students $18.00 per person.
If you would like to make a booking, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with us by clicking on the link below
Or feel free to give us a call on +64 (0)3 478 0499
ALBATROSS AND FORT TAIAROA TOUR: 90 MINUTES
From fortification to conservation, students will look at how the use of Taiaroa Head has changed over time. From a Māori Pa site (~300 years ago) to a lighthouse in 1864. In 1886 it was set up as a fortification site and a disappearing gun was installed. Now Taiaroa Head is home to the only mainland breeding colony for the Northern Royal Albatross in the world (1919). Discover how the Royal Albatross is adapted for life at sea and where they go when they leave Taiaroa Head.
Introducing the Royal Albatross (30 min)
Ever fancied becoming an Albatross? Well this is your chance. One member of the group will be transformed into an albatross an entertaining look at how these majestic birds survive life at sea. A short video will introduce the Taiaroa Head site and outline the headland’s importance as a fortification site for Māori and Europeans.
Viewing Observatory (30 min)
Visit the Viewing Observatory and view the local seabirds soaring out to sea and nesting on the headland. Binoculars, Interactive displays and the experience of the wildlife guide are just some of the resources to enhance your wildlife encounter.
Fort Taiaroa (30 min)
Travel underground and discover a disappearing gun. Tour the fortifications of Fort Taiaroa and view 19th century artillery Discuss why Taiaroa Head was a good defensive site and through drama experience.
ALBATROSS CONSERVATION TOUR: 90 MINUTES
Discover how the Northern Royal Albatross is adapted for life at sea. Investigate the lifecycle of the albatross and where they go when they leave Taiaroa Head. Find out how the wildlife rangers look after these birds and why they are so special to the Maori people.
Introducing the Royal Albatross (30 min)
Ever fancied becoming an Albatross? Well, this is your chance. One member of the group will be transformed into an albatross, an entertaining look at how these majestic birds survive life at sea. A discussion and short video will follow to introduce the lifecycle and activities of the Royals of Taiaroa Head.
Viewing Observatory (30 min)
Visit the Viewing Observatory and view the local seabirds soaring out to sea and nesting on the headland. Binoculars, remote cameras, interactive displays and the experience of the wildlife guide are just some of the resources to enhance your wildlife encounter.
Conservation and Environmental Action (30 min)
The plight of the albatross is difficult due to human activity. Find out what are the issues and what we can do to help. Lively debate, discussion and games are planned!