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Akaroa and Oamaru Extension
Explore New Zealand's Southeast Coast in Search of Rare Dolphins & the World’s Smallest Penguins
Kick off your New Zealand nature adventure with this pre-trip extension focused on penguins and marine life. Travel south from Christchurch along the rugged coast in search of rare dolphins and two different species of penguins, including the world’s smallest. Sailing into Akaroa Bay on a chartered catamaran, look for endangered Hector’s dolphin breaching into the air. Exploring a region rich in birdlife, walk through colonies of endangered yellow-eyed penguins and tiny blue penguins that measure barely a foot tall. The South Coast landscape is dotted with historic villages, and working sheep ranches sprawl over the hillsides. Take in exhilarating views from the rim of a volcanic crater to the edge of the sea, and settle into the warm ambience of family-owned inns at night.
Trip Highlights
- Look for the highly endangered Hector’s dolphin, one the world’s smallest and rarest, as you cruise Akaroa's wide bay on a chartered catamaran
- Walk through a yellow-eyed penguin colony to meet New Zealand’s largest breeding penguins, then make two visits to a blue penguin colony to see the world’s smallest penguins
- Spend two nights in Akaroa and Oamaru in historic family-run inns, enjoying New Zealand's legendary hospitality and charming local atmosphere
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