Wildside Discovery Tours - old

Wildside Discovery Tours

Scenic 4WD mini-van drive
Photo opportunities
Fully experienced guides
Scenic Nature Safari

Come with us on a 4WD safari to the spectacular, award-winning Wildside Conservation area! Discover the area’s rich history, native flora and fauna and Pohatu’s unique penguin conservation program.

Our Nature Safaris offer stunning views of Akaroa Harbour, the outer coast, farm land and forested hillsides.
You will be greeted by the farm’s rare breeds of friendly pet sheep and see White-Flippered penguins as we monitor nesting sites.
If you’re lucky, you may even get the chance to see some of our rehabilitation efforts such as supplemental feedings and swim therapy.*

We have 2 options: a 2 Nature tour or our Half day scenic Nature safari.

Option 1: 2 hour Nature tour

Ideal for people on a day trip in Akaroa and family with young children!

This 2 hour nature tour gives you the chance to learn more about Pohatu Penguins while still having time to explore our historic town. Everything mentioned above is included in the 2-Hour tour.

An interesting educational experience to learn about penguins and conservation.
 

Departure time
1:30pm
Wildlife
Scenic transport included
Adult

$75

Child

5 - 15 years*

$45

Infant

2 - 4 years*

$35

Family 2 adults & up to 3 children

$200

Option 2: Half day Scenic Nature Safari
If you want to truly discover the majestic outer-coast of Banks peninsula and its unique wildlife then join our half day nature tour option.
  • Enjoy all the above PLUS…
  • A visit to the spectacular cliff-tops of Akaroa Heads Lighthouse Reserve.
  • A visit of the beautiful red beech forest of Tutakakahikura Scenic Reserve. (optional)
  • More time to see native wildlife and to explore Flea Bay.
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and home-made baked goods! (Gluten free and Sugar free options available on request)
Departure time
12pm Summer / 11.15am Winter
4 to 5 hours tour
Wildlife
A cup of tea and a muffin/slice of cake
Scenic transport included
Adult

$135

Child

5 - 15 years*

$75

Infant

2 - 4 years*

$50

Family 2 adults & up to 3 children

$315

Note that rates will change on the 1st of May.

*Most rehabilitation occurs mid-November through mid-February and depending on the day only shown to people on a Full Scenic Nature safari to limit crowding penguins.

Please see Penguin Season Table for an annual timeline of when and what you can see.

*Most rehabilitation occurs mid-November through mid-February and depending on the day only shown to people on a Full Scenic Nature safari to limit crowding penguins.

Please see Penguin Season Table for an annual timeline of when and what you can see.

P1050318-33-478
Pohatu Penguins pohatu.co.nz - Spherical Image - RICOH THETA
Check out also our 24 hour Pohatu package 

Experience a night right in the middle of the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand! Our cosy units are available to enable you to spend more time at Pohatu Bay and free time to relax and explore Pohatu´s many secret places. The accommodation is located within easy walking distance of our beautiful safe sandy beach.