Cook Strait Ferry

Wellington > New Zealand

Great opportunity for pelagic seabirding on the ferry between Picton and Wellington, including for White-capped Albatross and Westland Petrel.

Added* by Jonathan Klawitter
Most recent update 16 Φεβρουαρίου 2024

Description ›
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Top 5 birds ›
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Description

The open ocean section on the Cook Strait crossing between Picton and Wellington offers a great opportunity to look out for seabirds with over 20 species regularly seen. You can expect many species such as from the small Hutton's Shearwater and Fluttering Shearwater over Cook's Petrel and Westland Petrel to several alabtross species including Royal Albatross and White-capped Albatross. Also keep an eye open for Little Penguin and dolphins.

Details

Access

There are two ferry operators between Picton and Wellington and all ships have outside decks for birding. The crossing takes about 3.5h. See the links to the ferry operators Interislander and Bluebridge below.

Terrain and Habitat

Sea

Conditions

Wet , Slippery

Circular trail

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Summer , Spring , Autumn

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Wheelchair , Foot , Bicycle , Car

Birdwatching hide / platform

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

1. White-capped Albatross
(Thalassarche cauta)

2. Westland Petrel
(Procellaria westlandica)

3. Hutton's Shearwater
(Puffinus huttoni)

4. Northern Royal Albatross
(Diomedea epomophora sanfordi)

5. Buller's Shearwater
(Ardenna bulleri)

Other birds you can see here

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Gallery

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Comments & Tips

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