Royal Albatross Centre

The Royal Albatross Centre in Harington Point, New Zealand is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

It is the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross in the world and is operated by the Otago Peninsula Trust, New Zealand’s first private charitable conservation trust. A portion of every ticket sold at the centre goes towards the fostering and protection of the Northern Royal Albatross.

Visitors to the centre can book a 60-minute fully private Royal Tour with a dedicated expert albatross guide. The tour includes a Royal Albatross Centre land tour and an invigorating Monarch Wildlife Cruise, which allows visitors to watch Dunedin’s famous Royals from the exclusive ‘Royal Box’ observatory. The centre also offers an indoor viewing area where visitors can watch great northern royal albatrosses circle the cliffs before returning to their nests just a few meters away.

Located on a long green headland at the tip of the Otago Peninsula, the Royal Albatross Centre offers a unique wildlife experience. Visitors can get close to some of New Zealand's rarest and most spectacular birds at Taiaroa Head, including penguins and sea lions on the beaches around the centre. During the summer, visitors may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the adults teaching their chicks to fly. To learn more about the birds’ behavior, visitors can take a tour and enjoy a short film that documents the existence of the albatross in Otago. Additionally, visitors can explore Fort Taiaroa, which played an important role in the nation’s history.

The Royal Albatross Centre is located at 1259 Harington Point Rd, Taiaroa Head, Dunedin Central, New Zealand, which is a 45-50 minute drive from Dunedin City. The centre is open daily, and visitors are advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment. In summary, the Royal Albatross Centre is a unique and awe-inspiring destination that offers visitors the chance to witness the majestic Northern Royal Albatross in its natural habitat. With its stunning location, expert guides, and commitment to conservation, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand.