The surrounding landscape is simply stunning – on a clear day we’ll see Mt Cook and Tasman, Franz Josef Glacier – an amazing backdrop to the ancient kahikatea forest and wetland rushes in the foreground. Plenty of opportunity for photos of birds and landscapes.
Ōkārito Boat Tours
Daily Tours
We’ll show you as much as we can on our popular 2-hour Eco Tour via the Explorer Douglas – this flat bottomed open air boat was custom built for the lagoon – we cruise along at slow speeds and often drift alongside feeding white herons, godwits, oystercatchers and dotterels.
Ōkārito Eco Tour
Our most popular tour is the all encompassing 2 Hour Eco Tour departing at 9am, with an optional 11:30am departure.
NOTE: Winter 2024 we will be closed from June 05 to Nov 05. We look forward to seeing you in the spring/summer!
Starting at Ōkārito Wharf, we navigate the main lagoon channel, observing a variety of wading birds along the way. We’ll delve into discussions about the wetlands and the current conservation initiatives. On clear days, we’ll stop to capture stunning mountain views. The tour continues at a relaxed pace through rainforest waterways, including a break for a warm drink and a snack. This immersive tour is designed to encourage exploration and interaction, providing plenty of opportunities for questions and comments.
Discover Ōkārito Package
Discover the natural beauty of Ōkārito Lagoon, New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland.
This six-hour adventure begins at the historic Ōkārito Wharf, where Paula & Swade from Ōkārito Boat Tours will guide you on a two-hour Eco Tour aboard the Explorer Douglas. Experience the diverse birdlife in this remarkable ecosystem, including the majestic kotuku (great white herons), migratory godwits, and many other species. Navigate through 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 Eco Tours guide will greet you with a packed lunch and introduce you to our collaborative restoration efforts. Learn about our community-driven initiative to eradicate invasive species and replant native trees sourced from our Community Plants Nursery. The tour concludes with an enchanting guided walk through the Ōkārito 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 that best fit your schedule.
Whether you prefer the early morning light or the early afternoon, embark on a unique journey through the breathtaking Ōkārito Lagoon landscape.
What better way to start your day than with tranquil waters, feeding birds, and soaring mountains? Whether you’re aiming to capture a special photograph or simply relax in the serene, untouched environment, this trip promises an inspiring experience. With a private charter, you set the pace. We’ll linger where you desire or help you find that perfect scene you wish to capture or witness.
Photography Workshops Westland
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 the potential for perfect, calm, and misty mornings along the Ōkārito waterways. Spot the majestic kotuku (great white herons) year-round, along with many other bird species.
Our charters are available throughout the season, allowing us to accommodate your schedule. We are proud to have served as the charter vessel for Andris Apse Ōkārito Photography Workshops and numerous other renowned New Zealand photographers, including Rina Sjardin Thompson.
We also cater to photography clubs, groups, and private workshops.
