Exclusive Access Seal Coast Safari

Overview

This half-day 4WD trip leaves Wellington behind and heads for Cape Terawhiti, a stretch of coastline most visitors, and plenty of locals, never reach. The route crosses private farmland at Terawhiti Station, land the operator has exclusive permission to drive through, and finishes at a fur seal colony where the animals rest on the rocks and sand. Reviews repeatedly describe an experience away from touristy crowds, on private land with plenty of time to take in the scenery.

The tour runs about 3.5 hours and follows a set shape. It begins with hotel, cruise ship or cruise car park pickup, then stops at Otari-Wilton's Bush Native Botanic Garden. From there the Mercedes 4WD crosses the station on the way to the coast, where the New Zealand fur seals live. Groups are capped at 10 travellers.

It suits travellers who want wildlife and scenery without a full-day commitment, and it works especially well for cruise passengers, since pickup comes straight from the ship. The guides get consistent praise for knowledge of the region's history, flora and fauna. The driving is a real part of the experience: reviewers note there is plenty of it, so the day is mostly spent riding rather than walking.

Itinerary

1. Pickup in WellingtonHotel pickup from selectable points, or pickup from the cruise ship or cruise car park. Pickup happens shortly before departure, and not every hotel or Airbnb is covered.
2. Otari-Wilton's BushA 30-minute stop at the native botanic garden, with admission ticket included.
3. Terawhiti Station driveRoughly 1.5 hours crossing private farmland, with admission ticket included.
4. Cape Terawhiti and the sealsAbout 1 hour at the coast to watch the New Zealand fur seal colony.
5. Return and drop-offDrive back to Wellington, with drop-off direct from cruise ships stated as available.

Common Questions