OKARITO-FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER-WEST COAST~NEW ZEALAND

Explore The Untouched Serenity Of New Zealand’s Largest Unmodified Wetland with Okarito Boat Tours

With over 70 species of birds recorded, Okarito offers nature, bird and eco enthusiasts tremendous diversity as we travel from the wild beaches of the Tasman Sea up the Lagoon and into the surrounding rainforest.

Join us on a small and personalized tour exploring the magnificent and untouched serenity of New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland, over 3000 hectares and part of the South Westland World Heritage area.

The open air boat allows a total sensory experience with 360 degree views as we cruise quietly amongst feeding birds including the graceful Kotuku or Great White heron and Royal Spoonbills. The towering Southern Alps, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman and Franz Josef Glacier make for a spectacular backdrop to the coastal and rainforest environment on clear days.

2 Hour Nature Tour

• $75 per adult/$35 youth/under 6 free
• 9 AM & 11:30 AM daily – 2 hour tours are also available on demand in the afternoons
• Max 12 passengers
• Ideal for all bird viewing and photography
• Early departures typically offer calmer waters with beautiful reflections and best views of the Southern Alps
• Geology and plant interpretation included in this all encompassing and interactive tour
• Riverside refreshments included

1 Hour Sightseeing Tour

• $45 per adult/$20 youth/under 6 free
  
• Afternoon and early evening departures on demand
• Max 12 passengers
• Ideal for those wanting a shorter trip to see the wading birds.  Tours reach the edge of the rainforest before returning to the Wharf

Stay and Explore Okarito – Accommodation Packages Available

• Combine your boat tour with accommodation right in Okarito – after exploring the Lagoon, head up the famous Okarito Trig Walk for outstanding views of the Tasman Sea, Franz Josef Glacier, Mount Cook and the Okarito Lagoon.  Or opt for a longer walk to 3 Mile Lagoon through forest and return along the beach, watching for dolphins or seals along the way.  Then enjoy a quiet nights rest in your comfortable self-contained beach house, with just the waves on beach and call of the morepork – native owl – to lull you to sleep.  Call or email us for more information and package prices…

Having lived on the West Coast for 30+ years, Swade has many stories and a wealth of information on the local flora and fauna. He loves to share his passion for the “magic” of Okarito and the West Coast and looks forward to your company on board!

Small tours tailored to suit your interests enable interactive commentary with your Skipper and Guide, “Swade”.

Okarito is a quaint seaside village located just 13 kms off State Highway 6 on the South Island’s West Coast. Look for the Okarito turnoff 13 km north of Franz Josef Glacier and 14 km south of Whataroa.

Okarito Boat Tours is proud to be one of the founding members of Birding West Coast New Zealand.  Visit us on this newly launched website and find out more about us, the West Coast of New Zealand and the many birding opportunities that it provides at www.birdingwestcoast.co.nz

Contact us:

Okarito Boat Tours, PO Box 2 Franz Josef
South Westland ~ New Zealand ~
Local phone 03 753 4223 International +64 3 753 4223 ~
Email: info@okaritoboattours.co.nz