Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 356 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast worth booking?
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast is a 3.5-hour experience in Wellington, New Zealand, from $117 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 356 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 85 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (356)
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- From
- $117 per person
A unique and exciting exploration to Wellington’s secret coast. With exclusive access through private farmland, we'll take you on a journey to discover Wellington's natural wonders in an area unknown even to many locals.
What you get
About this experience
A unique and exciting exploration to Wellington’s secret coast. With exclusive access through private farmland, we'll take you on a journey to discover Wellington's natural wonders in an area unknown even to many locals. Only 20km from the city, this area will feel like another world. Travelling in new 4WD Mercedes vehicles, you'll see a working farm with sheep, cows and goats, while enjoying stunning views of the Cook Strait, South Island and Kaikoura Ranges. Once down to sea-level, we’ll meet some much-loved locals – New Zealand Fur Seals. Enjoy morning/afternoon tea while observing these amazing animals as they sunbathe, play, and swim while learning about their history, ecology, and conservation from your friendly and knowledgeable guide. The Seal Coast Safari is a must-do for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure. Join us and discover one of Wellington’s best-kept secrets! Route is along rough terrain requiring 4WD. Not suitable for people with neck or back injuries.
What's included
Included
- Proud partner of the Capital Kiwi conservation project
- Exclusive access to private farmland with stunning views
- See Wellington's hidden gems that even most locals don't know about
- Pick up and drop off available direct from cruise ships - we've never missed a drop off
- Travel in style and comfort with our new fleet of 4WD Mercedes
- NZ Fur Seals in their stunning natural environment
- Owned and operated by passionate nature lovers
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Otari-Wilton's Bush Native Botanic Garden
We begin our journey at Otari-Wilton’s Bush - one hundred hectares of ancient and regenerating forest and New Zealand’s only botanical garden dedicated solely to native plants. Designated a six-star Garden of International Significance by the New Zealand’s Gardens Trust of the Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture, Otari-Wilton’s Bush allows us to introduce you to what the landscape of New Zealand was like for early Maori and European settlers. Walking across the skybridge, you will be treated to views across the canopy while your friendly and knowledgeable guide introduces you to some of the unique flora and fauna endemic to this country and the challenges they have faced to survive. We regularly see beautiful native bird species like Tui, Kaka, Kakariki, Kereru and, occasionally, Karearea, all of which were extinct or endangered in the Wellington region only 25 years ago.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Next, we carry on through the suburbs and towards the south coast. Turning off the main road, we utilise our private access through Terawhiti Station, one of the oldest and largest stations in New Zealand. We’ll likely see sheep, cows and goats on the drive up the hill, before being treated to stunning views across the Cook Strait, Kaikoura Ranges and the South Island once we reach the top. We then follow the ridgeline road that was created for the imposing Project West Wind – a 62 turbine strong wind farm that generates enough electricity to power all the houses in the Wellington region. This city is known as Windy Welly for a reason! Your guide will explain how this collaboration was essential in keeping the farming operation going in what are challenging and harsh conditions and added another chapter to the long, storied history of Terawhiti.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Once we begin the descent towards sea-level, appearing in the distance will be the Karori rock lighthouse, which is more commonly known as the ‘leaning lighthouse’. Built in 1915 following the sinking of the SS Penguin, the decommissioned 19m tall tower was one of New Zealand's first automated lighthouses and, yes, it does lean! You’ll see this for yourself once we reach the coast and traverse the rocky, sandy track towards Tongue Point and the colony of native New Zealand Fur Seals. Upon arrival, we’ll exit the vehicle and wander the beach to observe these cute creatures in their natural habitat as they sunbathe, play and swim. Staying at a safe distance [for their safety and ours], your guide will talk about the history, ecology and conservation which has allowed their numbers to flourish once again. We’ll also treat you to some light refreshments as you take photos and watch the ferries crossing between New Zealand’s main two islands.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Seal Coast Safari
Pickup included
Seal Coast Safari alternate
Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Seal Coast Safari
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not recommended for travelers with neck problems
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 356 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
356 verified traveler reviews for Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Stop researching and just do it!
If you're debating doing this, stop and just do it. I had a wonderful time, learned a ton from my guide, James, and saw a part of Wellington that a lot of people never see. It's so worthwhile, and the Beach Potatoes (seals) are just adorable and chill. Just book it, you won't regret it!
Response from the operator: Thank you for the fantastic review. We’re so pleased you enjoyed the adventure and discovering this unique side of Wellington with James. We’ll be sure to pass on your kind words to him. And yes, the seals really are chill!
via Viator
Winter Escape to Seal World
Tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly! Tour was highlight of my trip to Wellington!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your lovely review. We’re delighted our guide helped make your time in Wellington so memorable. It’s wonderful to hear the tour was a highlight of your trip.
via Tripadvisor
Spectacular
This is a truly amazing one of a kind tour because it goes thru spectacular scenery with views ( if not too cloudy) all the way to the South Island. Some parts feel like lord of the rings country plus the mountains to the sea views with dear seals resting peacefully, is a special and rare experience. My guide Chris was exceptionally friendly and helpful with a wealth of knowledge to share, in a fun and humorous way. A big warm Thankyou to Chris!
Response from the operator: The seal colony is the destination but the trip there is a huge part of the attraction of the tour. Chris is one of our many great local hosts. Thanks for the feedback.
via Tripadvisor
Fantastic Tour
The trip was fantastic even though it was drizzly. Wyatt our guide was great and very knowledgeable.
Response from the operator: Rain or shine it is still a great trip. Thanks for the feedback.
via Tripadvisor
Fantastic Morning
Thoroughly enjoyed our morning with Andy, travelling out to the Seal Colony and spending time amongst them. The weather was drizzly and cloudy but to be honest, it added to the dramatic scenery and because you get driven right to the activity it wasn’t really a problem. We then stopped for an informative walk around the local native gardens and back to our accommodation. Great morning’s entertainment!
Response from the operator: While the weather can be unpredictable we grantee a good time being looked after by our great team of local guides. Thanks for the feedback.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $117 to $225
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 125
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 85
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Wellington.
How much does Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast cost?
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Prices start at $117 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Wellington usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast take?
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Plan for about 3.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Wellington is not rushed.
Is Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 356 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Wellington, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast?
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Around 125 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Wellington can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Wellington and add a light layer if any part of the 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Wellington within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Wellington?
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On Outty we rank every Wellington experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Overnight Experience Tour on Kapiti Island, Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour, Martinborough Wine and Wild Coast Tour from Wellington. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Wellington?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Wellington?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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