Okārito Boat EcoTours
Okarito is a hidden gem in New Zealand, a magical place teeming with natural beauty. We'll guide you through the expansive Okarito lagoon, wetlands, and rainforest waterways, which cover over 3000 hectares and form NZ's largest unaltered wetland. This ecosystem, from sea to mountains, functions as perfectly today as it always has.
During your visit, we'll introduce you to the diverse birdlife that thrives in both fresh and saltwater habitats. From tiny banded dotterels to hardy godwits journeying from Alaska, majestic great white herons, and unique royal spoonbills, there's a plethora of species to observe. Especially on a clear day, with Mount Cook, Tasman, the Southern Alps, and Franz Josef Glacier in the background, your camera will be indispensable.
With the endless rainforest, birds in the foreground, and tranquil waterways, Okarito is a memory you'll cherish forever.
During your visit, we'll introduce you to the diverse birdlife that thrives in both fresh and saltwater habitats. From tiny banded dotterels to hardy godwits journeying from Alaska, majestic great white herons, and unique royal spoonbills, there's a plethora of species to observe. Especially on a clear day, with Mount Cook, Tasman, the Southern Alps, and Franz Josef Glacier in the background, your camera will be indispensable.
With the endless rainforest, birds in the foreground, and tranquil waterways, Okarito is a memory you'll cherish forever.
Tours
The Okārito EcoTour
Our most popular and all-encompassing 2-Hour EcoTour departs at 9 AM, with an optional 11:30 departure. Starting from Okarito Wharf, we traverse the main lagoon channel, spotting a multitude of wading birds. We'll discuss the wetlands and ongoing conservation efforts. On clear days, we pause for scenic mountain shots. The tour then proceeds leisurely through rainforest waterways, with a break for a warm drink and snack. This tour, packed with exploration and interaction, offers ample time for questions and comments.
NOTE Winter 2024 we will be closed from June 05 to Nov 05 - we look forward to seeing you in the spring/summer!
NOTE Winter 2024 we will be closed from June 05 to Nov 05 - we look forward to seeing you in the spring/summer!
Discover Okārito Package
Discover the natural beauty of Okarito Lagoon, New Zealand's largest unmodified wetland area. This six-hour adventure starts at the historic Okarito Wharf, where Paula & Swade from Okarito Boat Tours will take you on a two-hour EcoTour aboard the Explorer Douglas. Experience the diverse birdlife in this exceptional ecosystem, including the majestic kotuku - great white herons, migratory godwits, and many others. Journey through the rainforest waterways to spot seasonal perching orchids, rata flowers, clematis, forest birds, and possibly kotuku feeding along the channels. After returning to the wharf, your Glacier Valley EcoTours guide awaits with a packed lunch and an introduction to our combined restoration efforts. Learn about our community-driven initiative to remove invasive species and replant native trees sourced from our Community Plants Nursery. The tour concludes with a mesmerising guided walk through the Okarito rainforest, where you'll encounter everything from tiny carnivorous sundews to towering kahikatea trees and a variety of birds.
Private Charters
We now offer private charters, allowing you to choose from various times to best fit your schedule. From the early morning light to the early afternoon, experience a unique journey through the Okarito Lagoon's stunning landscape. What better way to start your day than with tranquil waters, feeding birds and soaring mountains? Whether you're looking to capture a special photograph or simply relax in the serene, untouched environment, this trip offers an inspiring experience. With a private charter, you control the pace. We'll stay longer where you wish or assist you in finding that perfect scene you hope to capture or witness.
Photography Workshops
For wildlife and landscape photography enthusiasts, our late summer and autumn tours are a dream come true. The lighting on the west coast during these seasons is incredibly rich, offering potentially perfect calm and misty mornings up the Ōkārito waterways. Spot the majestic kotuku - great white herons - all year round, along with many other bird species.
Our charters are available throughout the season, allowing us to accommodate your schedule. We're proud to have served as the charter vessel for Andris Apse Okarito Photography Workshops and numerous other New Zealand photographers, including Rina Sjardin Thompson, as well as photography clubs, groups and private workshops.
Please visit our Packages Page - Photography Workshops or contact us for more information and to book this special trip.
Our charters are available throughout the season, allowing us to accommodate your schedule. We're proud to have served as the charter vessel for Andris Apse Okarito Photography Workshops and numerous other New Zealand photographers, including Rina Sjardin Thompson, as well as photography clubs, groups and private workshops.
Please visit our Packages Page - Photography Workshops or contact us for more information and to book this special trip.
Book Your Tour Online
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WHERE WE ARE
Okarito Office: 31 Wharf Street, Okarito 25 km north of Franz Josef, West Coast, South Island New Zealand 7856 CONTACT US Phone +64 (3) 753 4223 Email: [email protected] |
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