Wellington 4WD Seal Colony Tours – Seal Coast Safari
Updated 21 January 2026
Wellington 4WD Seal Colony Tours – Seal Coast Safari
Experience Wellington’s wild South Coast on a 4WD seal colony tour just minutes from the city. This guided Seal Coast Safari takes you off-road to one of the closest fur seal colonies to Wellington, where you’ll see seals in their natural environment alongside dramatic coastal scenery and local wildlife.
Visit the Closest Fur Seal Colony to Wellington
Closest wildlife Encounter with Seals in New Zealand,
Price: $195 per person – Child $100.00 pp
Departs: 8:30 am and 12:30 pm
Duration: 3.5 Hours approx approx.
Embark on a memorable 4WD Seal Coast Safari from central Wellington and experience one of the closest wildlife encounters with fur seals in New Zealand. This guided adventure combines off-road exploration, dramatic coastal scenery, and close-up wildlife viewing along Wellington’s wild South Coast.
Travel in comfort in purpose-built Mercedes 4WD vehicles as your knowledgeable guide takes you beyond the city to explore diverse ecosystems shaped by wind, sea, and history.
What You’ll Experience on the Seal Coast Safari
Native Forest & Birdlife
Begin your journey with a visit to Otari-Wilton’s Bush, a remnant native forest sanctuary. Walk beneath towering trees while keeping an eye out for native birdlife such as tūī and kākā, and learn about the conservation efforts helping restore Wellington’s natural environment.
Historic Landscapes & Coastal Views
Enjoy exclusive access through Terawhiti Station, one of New Zealand’s largest working farms. From here, take in sweeping views across Cook Strait, the Kaikōura Ranges, and, on clear days, the South Island.
Pass through the Makara Wind Farm, where modern renewable energy sits alongside historic farmland, before reaching the rugged coastline.
Karori Rock Lighthouse
See the iconic Karori Rock Lighthouse, a striking landmark that stands guard over one of the world’s most powerful stretches of water. Learn about Wellington’s maritime history and the challenges faced by early shipping along this coast.
Witness Fur Seals in Their Natural Habitat
The highlight of the tour is a visit to Red Rocks Beach, home to a thriving colony of New Zealand fur seals.
- Observe fur seals resting on the rocks, swimming close to shore, and interacting naturally within the colony
- Enjoy excellent photography opportunities while maintaining a safe and respectful distance
- Learn about seal behaviour, ecology, and the conservation efforts supporting their recovery
Your guide provides expert insight into seal life cycles and explains why Wellington’s South Coast is such an important habitat.
Conservation & Responsible Tourism
This tour supports ongoing conservation initiatives that protect native wildlife and fragile coastal ecosystems. By joining the Seal Coast Safari, you’re contributing to the long-term care of this unique environment.
Why Choose This Wellington Seal Colony Tour?
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One of the closest fur seal colonies to Wellington
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Off-road 4WD access not available to standard vehicles
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Small-group experience with knowledgeable local guides
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Ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and first-time visitors
Book your Wellington Seal Coast Safari today and discover the wild, windswept beauty of the South Coast — where fur seals, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable photo opportunities await.
Frequently Asked Questions – Wellington 4WD Seal Colony Tour
What is the Wellington 4WD Seal Colony Tour?
The Wellington 4WD Seal Colony Tour is a guided off-road Seal Coast Safari that takes you to one of the closest New Zealand fur seal colonies to Wellington. The tour combines wildlife encounters with dramatic coastal scenery along the city’s rugged South Coast.
Where does the Seal Coast Safari depart from and what’s included?
The tour departs from central Wellington and runs for approximately 3.5 hours. Travel is in purpose-built Mercedes 4WD vehicles and includes visits to native forest, historic coastal landscapes, the Karori Rock Lighthouse, and Red Rocks Beach to see fur seals in their natural habitat.
What wildlife can I expect to see on the tour?
The highlight of the tour is seeing New Zealand fur seals at Red Rocks Beach. While exploring Otari-Wilton’s Bush and the South Coast, you may also spot native birdlife such as tūī and kākā, along with other coastal species depending on the season.
How does this tour support conservation?
By joining the Wellington 4WD Seal Colony Tour, you help support conservation initiatives that protect native wildlife and fragile coastal environments. The tour operates with a strong focus on responsible wildlife viewing and environmental care.
Why choose this seal colony tour in Wellington?
This tour offers off-road access to one of the closest fur seal colonies to Wellington, guided by knowledgeable local experts. With small group sizes, excellent photography opportunities, and a mix of wildlife and scenery, it’s an ideal choice for nature lovers, photographers, and first-time visitors.
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