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 Pōhatu’s unique penguin conservation program.

Our wildlife Nature Safaris offer stunning views of Akaroa Harbour, the outer coast, farm land and  hillsides covered in Native forest.
You will be greeted by the farm’s rare breeds of friendly pet sheep and see Kororā/White-Flippered penguins as we monitor nesting sites (in season*). 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 hour 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 families with young children!

This 2-hour nature tour gives you the chance to explore part of the Banks peninsula and learn about Pōhatu 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 New Zealand native wildlife, penguins and conservation.

  • departure-icon Departure time 1:30pm
  • wildlife-iconWildlife
  • scenic-transport-icoScenic transport included

2 hour Nature tour

  • Adult

  • $85

  • Child

    5 to 15 years old*
  • $55

  • Infant

    2 to 4 years old*
  • $35

  • Family

    2 adults & up to 3 children
  • $250

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-icon Departure time 12pm Summer / 11.15am Winter; 4 to 5 hours tour
  • wildlife-iconWildlife
  • cupoftea-iconA cup of tea and a muffin/slice of cake
  • scenic-transport-icoScenic transport included

Half day Scenic Nature Safari

  • Adult

  • $135

  • Child

    5 to 15 years old*
  • $85

  • Infant

    2 to 4 years old*
  • $50

  • Family price

    2 adults & up to 3 children
  • $385

Please note:

*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 the penguins.

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

Check out also our 24 hour Pōhatu 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 Pōhatu Bay and free time to relax and explore Pōhatu´s many secret places. The accommodation is located within easy walking distance of our beautiful safe sandy beach.