A: Dunedin’s weather can be unpredictable — it’s often said you can experience four seasons in one day! We recommend dressing in layers and bringing a windproof, waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a sunhat to ensure you're prepared for all conditions.

A: Yes, all children under 8 years old need a car or booster seat. There is an extra charge of NZ$35 per car seat. Please notify us if you travel with children.

A: Please note that the walking tour at The OPERA involves uneven terrain and some stair climbing. A moderate level of fitness is required, as the walk includes ascending and descending a hill. This tour is not suitable for individuals with walking difficulties or limited mobility.

We strongly recommend wearing comfortable, sturdy walking shoes. Additionally, dressing appropriately for the weather — including a windproof and waterproof jacket — will help ensure a more enjoyable experience, as conditions can be changeable on the Peninsula.

A: At Fantail Tours, we’re committed to providing the best possible experience for every guest. If your ship is arriving later than our scheduled departure time, don’t worry—our tours often include guests from the same ship, so we’re usually able to delay departure to accommodate late arrivals.

Please notify us as soon as you have an updated arrival time. While we can’t guarantee a delay, we’ll do everything we can to adjust the schedule and ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to explore beautiful Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula with us.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’ll work closely with you to find the best possible solution.

A: For cruise ship passengers, our tours depart from the Port Chalmers Cruise Terminal tour waiting area, just a 5-minute walk from your ship. For independent travellers, the meeting point is at The Octagon, outside the Dunedin Visitor Centre.

A: Our small-group tours can accommodate up to 18 passengers on cruise ship days. However, group sizes are significantly smaller when there are no cruise ships in town, so we encourage independent travelers to book on those quieter days for a more personal experience.

A: Yes, public toilets are available at several stops along the way, including Baldwin Street, the Upper Botanic Garden, Dunedin Railway Station, The Octagon, Olveston, Larnach Castle, OPERA, and the Albatross Centre.

A: Our tours require a minimum of two passengers for the tour to operate, and our booking system is set up accordingly. However, if you’re traveling solo, please email us with your preferred date — we may be able to arrange your booking manually if there are other reservations for that day.

A: Yellow-Eyed Penguin numbers have been declining sharply, with only around 500 remaining along the southern coast of the South Island. While there is a chance you might see one or two penguins in the reserve—returning to their nests to feed chicks or swap with their partner during incubation—sightings are not guaranteed.

The tour focuses on education about these rare penguins, taking you into their natural habitat. If any penguins require extra care, you will also have the opportunity to see them up close at the rehabilitation centre, where they stay until they are ready to return to the wild.

Even if penguins are elusive, you will still encounter other wildlife such as sea lions, fur seals, and little blue penguins in their nest boxes, all set against some of the most breathtaking scenery the Otago Peninsula has to offer.