Getting to know…The Royal Albatross
Educational Tours specifically designed for Overseas Students

We can cater for groups of 10 to 24 students. A group discount of 10% applies (minimum group size of 10 students).To accommodate larger numbers we will split the groups up. Our tours last 1.5 hours and cost $14 per student (valid until the 23 November 2008) and $19 from the 24 November.
For prices and availability for groups smaller than 10 students please contact us on (03) 478 0499
   
Albatross and Fort Tour

From fortification to conservation, students will look at how the use of Taiaroa Head has changed over time. From a Maori 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 (1920). Discover how the Royal Albatross is adapted for life at sea and where they go when they leave Taiaroa Head.

Tour Details:
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 Maori and Europeans.

Richdale Observatory
(30 min) Up close and personal - visit the Richdale 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.

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 the last 60 seconds before the gun was fired.

For more information please email or to book click here
Albatross Conservation Tour

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.

Tour Details:
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.

Richdale Observatory
(30 min) Up close and personal - visit the Richdale 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!

Headland Walks
  If additional time permits, there are self-guided activities that can be done at the adjacent viewing platform and beach.

For more information please email or to book click here

An Otago Peninsula Trust Enterprise
Contact:
Royal Albatross Centre
PO Box 492, Dunedin.
Ph (03) 478 0499, Fax (03)478 0575

Email Us
Location Map
Join our mailing list