Excursion Zealandia ecosanctuary & cable car tour at Wellington

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Experience the stunning natural beauty, history and conservation efforts of New Zealand during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Wellington, Lambton Quay, Wellington Harbour and Cable Car, Funicular Ride, Panoramic Views

Depart the pier for the short drive to Lambton Quay, located in the central business district and home to the 111-year-old Wellington Cable Car. Upon arrival, board the funicular for a vertical climb of over 390 feet (about 119 metres), and travel a length of approximately 2,000 feet (about 610 metres). Three minutes later, arrive at the top. From this commanding location, marvel at the breath-taking panoramic views over the city's rolling hills, downtown area, Wellington Harbour and beyond.

Zealandia Ecosanctuary, Forested Valley

Next, re-board your coach and continue on to Zealandia. Located just minutes from downtown Wellington, this approximately 550-acre (about 222-hectare) eco-sanctuary is tucked in a forested valley and protected by a unique, five-mile (about eight-kilometers), predator-proof fence.

Interactive Museum Tour, Conservation Area, Rare Bird Species

Upon arrival, take a guided, approximately two-hour walking tour. Along the way, discover the story of New Zealand's natural history and conservation movement in a world-class interactive museum. From here, your guide leads you through this extraordinary conservation area and shows you some of New Zealand's rarest species, including the saddleback and hihi birds, which were brought back from the brink of extinction. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach, and commence the short drive through the heart of the city and back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include Wellington City, Harbour and Cable Car, Lambton Quay, Funicular Ride, Panoramic Views, Zealandia Ecosanctuary, Interactive Museum, Conservation Area, Rare Birds

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately two miles (about 3.2 kilometres), at times over uneven, loose dirt and natural surfaces, and inclines and declines, with three-five steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and funicular, and 15 steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a waterproof jacket and local currency for purchases from the ship. The tour sequence may vary.