University of Otago - the oldest university of New Zealand
Views of St Clair Beach from the top
Kereru - Wood Pigeon
Tui at Orokonui Eco Sanctuary
Harbour Views from Otago Peninsula
ABOUT US
At Fantail Tours, we are passionate about sharing the best of Dunedin – from its rich heritage to its unique wildlife and stunning natural landscapes.
Whether you're a cruise ship passenger or an independent traveller, we invite you to experience Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula like a local, with the warmth and care you'd expect from a family or friend.
We specialize in small group and private tours, ensuring a personal and memorable experience. Larger groups can also be accommodated upon request.
Our diverse team of guides speaks a variety of languages, including Italian, Russian, German, Spanish, French, and even Lithuanian, so we can offer tailored experiences for a wide range of visitors.
At Fantail Tours, we’re here to ensure your trip is as fun, relaxing, and enjoyable as it should be
Meet Our Team
Asta
Managing Director
& Tour Guide
I originally hail from Lithuania and have a diverse educational background. Due to my family’s work circumstances, I had the opportunity to travel and live overseas for many years.
Around 14 years ago, I moved to Dunedin with my husband and two sons, and I’ve been working in the tourism industry ever since.
After several years as a travel consultant, I realized I wanted a deeper connection with tourists, so in 2017, I founded Fantail Tours. Now, as a passionate tour guide, I’m excited to share the beauty of Dunedin with visitors from around the world.
I’ve always had a love for the outdoors. In my free time, I enjoy day hikes, exploring local wildlife, and immersing myself in nature. Most of my tours focus on Dunedin and the stunning Coastal Otago region.
Over the past few years, during quieter periods in tourism, I’ve challenged myself to learn new skills and am now a proud beekeeper.
I look forward to meeting you and showing you the best of Dunedin – the "Edinburgh of the South" – or Ōtepoti, as it’s known in Māori.
Teresa
Tour Guide
I’m originally from the UK, and I fully embraced New Zealand life after settling in Dunedin in 2005. I went on to study Geography, History, and Māori at the University of Otago, which deepened my connection to this beautiful country.
Over the past 10 years, I’ve gained extensive knowledge of the local wildlife and natural environment by working with several tour companies and reserves in Dunedin. This hands-on experience has given me a unique perspective on the area’s diverse ecosystems.
As your guide, I’m excited to share my passion for New Zealand’s history, wildlife, and natural beauty. I love bringing the stories of this country to life, and I’m sure you’ll be enriched by the insights I share on each tour.
Heike
Tour Guide
Originally from Germany, I made New Zealand my home 25 years ago. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of guiding in Dunedin and across the country, sharing my passion for this stunning land. I’m also a trained high school teacher and work locally, teaching Geography and languages (French, German, and English) at local high schools.
I love sharing my deep appreciation for New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, people, and wildlife with visitors to Ōtepoti. Each tour is an opportunity for me to showcase the beauty and uniqueness of this place.
Outside of guiding, I’m passionate about the environment and enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, whether we’re hiking, cycling, or making music together. I look forward to meeting you in person and showing you the wonders of this incredible region.
Warren
Tour guide
Welcome to Aotearoa/New Zealand! I’m excited to share my deep knowledge and passion for this land with you. I’ve been a tour guide since the mid-1980s, and there’s nothing I love more than helping visitors explore the why, where, and how of New Zealand’s people, landscapes, and history. My areas of expertise include:
-
Social history
-
Geology & geography
-
Astronomy
-
Natural history & wildlife
-
The environment
Together, we’ll explore how all these elements come together to make Dunedin the unique place it is – all while enjoying the stunning scenery along the way!
As a safe and experienced driver (40+ years, with zero accidents), you’re in good hands. I’m also a proud member of the Science Communicators Association NZ and a Royal Society Science Communicator.