Sun hat/sunglassesWaterFoodRain jacketCameraGood walking shoes

Adult: 16 years +Children: 5-15 yearsInfants: 4 years and under

All Day Birdwatchers Experience to Blumine & Motuara Islands

South Island

E-ko Tours

from

US$227

per adult

Book Now

Little Blue Penguin swimming on the calm waters of the Marlborough Sounds

Experiences

Nature & Wildlife Cruises

Cruises

Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Picton

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 9 hours

All Day Birdwatchers Experience to Blumine & Motuara Islands

Set out on a full day of discovery as you explore two of Marlborough’s most treasured Wildlife Sanctuary Islands. This journey through Queen Charlotte Sound is perfect for bird enthusiasts eager to see rare and endangered species in their natural habitat. The blend of scenic cruising and island exploration makes for an unforgettable experience.

Guided by passionate experts, your trip begins with fascinating insights about the birdlife and landscapes of the region. On Motuara Island, you’ll enjoy guided walks where the chorus of native birds fills the air. Later, you’ll continue to Blumine Island for an unguided adventure, giving you time to uncover its unique wildlife at your own pace.

Exploring Blumine Island

With five and a half hours to explore Blumine Island, you'll also have the opportunity to seek out species like the South Island Saddleback, Bellbirds, Kereru, Tomtits, Tui, Weka, and the elusive Mohua. Keep in mind, there's no jetty on the island, so you might get wet feet when hopping on and off the boat!

After a full day immersed in the sights and sounds of Queen Charlotte Sound, you’ll leave with treasured memories and a deeper appreciation for New Zealand’s birdlife. This experience is a must for nature lovers keen to connect with the beauty and diversity of the Marlborough Sounds.

Aerial view of the Motuara Island jetty surrounded by native bush and turquoise water.

Jetty at Motuara Island surrounded by native bush in the Marlborough Sounds

A Little Blue Penguin floats on the water, its plumage glinting in the sun.

New Zealand Bellbird (Korimako) perched on a branch, glowing in forest light.

South Island Robin resting in a shaded stream on Motuara Island

A New Zealand Saddleback (Tīeke) bathes in a forest puddle, its red wattles visible.

Fluttering shearwater gliding above the Marlborough Sounds with wing reflection

Group of Spotted Shags on nesting rocks in Marlborough Sounds

A White-fronted Tern flies across the sky with a small fish in its beak.

Brown Kiwi peeking between feathers in a New Zealand sanctuary

White-capped Albatross floats calmly on the sea, yellow-tipped beak in view.

Fantail bird with tail fanned out on Blumine Island, Marlborough Sounds

Pied Shag with wings outstretched on the surface of the sea in New Zealand

New Zealand bellbird perched on a forest branch, singing on Blumine Island

View of boat wake as the tour departs from Motuara Island in the Marlborough Sounds.

Tour Highlights

Two Predator Free Sanctuaries
Rare Native Birds
Guided Tour of Motuara
King Shags
Complimentary Hot Drinks and Biscuits

Sun hat/sunglasses
Water
Food
Rain jacket
Camera
Good walking shoes

Adult: 16 years +
Children: 5-15 years
Infants: 4 years and under

More than 24 hours prior to departure: Full Refund (less any booking or credit card fees).*
Within 24 hours of the tour departure: No Refund

Note: *Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

All Day Birdwatchers Experience to Blumine & Motuara Islands

South Island

E-ko Tours

Experiences

South Island

All Day Birdwatchers Experience to Blumine & Motuara Islands

Exploring Blumine Island

Tour Highlights

Booking Options