Wildlife Tours Dunedin, New Zealand

Back to Nature Tours

Back to Nature Tours is locally owned and based in Dunedin, New Zealand that has been operating since 1997 specializing in small group cruise ship excursions, private day tours of Dunedin city, the Otago Peninsula. Recently, we have expanded our tour options to include the Catlins and Stewart Island located south of Dunedin.

We are a company with a passion for tourism and conservation. Our tours focus on the flora and fauna of New Zealand, and are peppered with local interest.

Different excursions to suit every need are on offer while a special tailor made tour can be developed to your taste. Our team will handle everything from the moment you arrive in Dunedin. Blessed with undisputed experience and knowledge of local phenomena and history, let us take you back to nature.

Key Dunedin Attractions We Combine

Otago Peninsula

Explore the wildlife capital of New Zealand. This hotspot for coastal scenery and wildlife is the primary site in all of our Dunedin tours. The Otago Peninsula together with its 20 km long harbor is the home of an abundance of magnificent world famous wildlife. The Royal Albatross, endangered Yellow-eyed Penguin, Sea Lions and NZ fur Seals make the Peninsula their home giving it the accolades of a perfect coastal habitat.

Dunedin's Iconic Buildings

Dunedin celebrates its Scottish roots, which are embedded throughout the city. Formed via the gold rush, Dunedin soon became home to the industrial and commercial centers of New Zealand. Developing the talent to advance these industries came in the shape of New Zealand's oldest and most prestigious University. History still resides in the early buildings formed in the 19th century demonstrating a large collection of Edwardian and Victorian masterpieces.

Taieri Gorge Railway

New Zealand's most prestigious train trip takes you on a journey though inland Otago. This unique railway experience follows the Taieri River gorge through the path of the early pioneers. There is no better place to see New Zealand's iconic landscape then from the comfort of a train. This attraction is paired with an excursion to the Otago Peninsula all in one day allowing you to experience both coastal and inland phenomena.

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Our Tours

Royal Peninsula

All of the highlights of Dunedin in one day. See endangered wildlife in their natural habitat and architecture masterpieces courtesy of its Scottish roots. This small group tour will be a highlight of your New Zealand trip.

– 7.5 hours

– Departing at 9:00am, Returning at 4:30pm

Highlights of this tour include:

• The World's Steepest Street
• University of Otago
• Historic Dunedin Railway station
• Larnach Castle Gardens
• Otago Peninsula
• The Tidal Inlets
• Penguin Place
• Little Blue Penguins, NZ Sea lions and NZ fur-seals
• Royal Albatross (Freedom Viewing)

Jewels of Otago–Taieri Gorge Railway & Otago Peninsula

Experience New Zealand's most scenic and prestigious train journeys through breathtaking landscapes. Paired with an exploration of Otago Peninsula, this day trip highlights wildlife, history and scenery in a way that you will never forget.

– 8 hours

– Departing 8:30

Highlights of this tour include:

• Taieri Gorge Railway Trip
• Otago Peninsula Tour
• Short walk on a Wildlife refuge where NZ sea-lions and fur seals can sometimes be seen
• Historic Dunedin Railway Station

Bays, Beaches and views of Dunedin

Indulge yourself in half a day of Dunedin's coastal scenery and city landmarks. This tour will leave you fixated on the paradise that wildlife call home. Experience pristine vistas courtesy of the south.

– 3.5 hours

– Morning and Afternoon Departures

Highlights of this tour include:

• Signal Hill Lookout
• Historic Dunedin Railway Station
• The World's Steepest Street
• Otago Peninsula
• Scenic Inlets
• Wildlife Reserve

Lovers Leap Coastal Hike

Dunedin's hidden secrets can only be experienced on foot. The rugged coastline of the Otago Peninsula is dominated by sheer cliffs and stunning basalt rock formations where the Pacific rollers continue to shape the land. This half-day outing will be a forever lasting memory as we take you on a stroll down the highest sand dune in Otago to our private hut where wildlife can often be found.

– 4 hours

– AM/PM Departure

Highlights of this tour include:

• Stunning Coastal Scenery
• Natural Rock bridge
• Refreshments at our Private Hut
• NZ Fur–Seals and Sea Lions

Custom Tours

Tailor make your own South Island Experience

Private Tours can be catered to your every desire. We specialize in planning, organizing and conducting nature-based trips of the South Island of New Zealand. Our wealth of experience, knowledge and contacts throughout the industry are our tools. Our South Island tours are individually crafted to include your interests with plenty of flexibility to try something new.

Combine any of our set tours with your own suggestions or allow us to develop an excursion based on your wishes and tastes. Enjoy taking the stress out of traveling by allowing us to take care of all the bookings and itineraries.

Tours with our Partners

Back To Nature Tours operate within the best hotspots in New Zealand with our partners located in Tauranga and Christchurch. Along with Dunedin these three destinations showcase the premium New Zealand experience. Whether it be an exploration of the home of the Hobbits or a taste of Maori culture, Back to Nature Tours and our partners have you covered.

Blossoms of Christchurch City

Explore the beautiful garden city and the tranquil Akaroa habour. Experience the city rebuilding itself while displaying backdrops of the Southern Alps and Canterbury plains. This 6-hour tour will engulf you in heritage and stunning vistas.

Geothermal Wonderland

Famous for its rich volcanic activity, Rotorua showcases spouting geysers and bubbling mud pools. Being the heart of Maori culture and history, Rotorua is a richening life experience.

Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Tour

Take a walk through the world of Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit. Experience the set of the iconic films up close and personal. New Zealand's renowned landscape is born in the rolling hills of this tour.

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