Oamaru & Moeraki Boulders - a Discovery Exclusive

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:
Blue Penguin Colony
A world-leading conservation and research facility, the Blue Penguin Colony is an opportunity to glimpse these adorable penguins. Though they are visible around the colony at night, if you're lucky, you may be able to see this nocturnal bird during the day at a viewing facility that allows you to look into the top of 10 nesting boxes. Every year, adult birds come to Oamaru's shores between May and June to find the perfect nesting site and lay two eggs from August to November.

Oamaru
Oamaru is quaint seaside town on the east coast about 90 minutes north of Dunedin. Take a step back in time as you stroll past some of New Zealand's most acclaimed 19th-century structures with a special nod to the Steampunk Train. Steampunk, inspired by the writing of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne, and in TV shows such as "Dr. Who," is a quirky and fun genre of science fiction that features steam-powered technology.

What you will see along the way:
Your scenic drive travels along the Otago Coast, a dramatic stretch of coastline that showcases some of the country's most diverse landscapes.
Photo Opportunity:

Moeraki Boulders
Stop for a look at the geological wonders known as the Moeraki Boulders. Measuring nine feet in circumference and six feet tall and weighing several tons, the gigantic spherical stones, according to Maori legend, are the washed-up remains of food baskets from a large canoe that sailed from Hawaiki and perished at sea. But really the unusual rocks were created about 60 million years ago and are the result of erosion, time and concretion.

Snack/Lunch
Before departing Oamaru, you'll have the option to enjoy lunch (at your own expense). Your driver can recommend some local favorites before heading off to your next stop.

Special Notes:

Penguin sightings during the day are rare and cannot be guaranteed.

Tour may operate in reverse order, dependent on the weather and tides on the day.

Fifteen minute beach walk each way down uneven tracks, stairs and over sand to view the Moeraki Boulders.

All meals on this trip at guest's cost.