Cape Palliser Seal Colony
Witness hundreds of New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks and playing in the surf at this stunning coastal colony.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Seals are most active
Cape Palliser Seal Colony
Best Time
Seals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness hundreds of New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks and playing in the surf at this stunning coastal colony.
"You can see so many seals there, it's a fantastic experience!"
🚗 Drive Carefully
Roads can be rough in parts. Take it slow, especially near the colony as seals cross the road!
📏 Keep Your Distance
Admire the seals from afar. Move slowly to avoid startling them and respect their space.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hundreds of Fur Seals
Rocky shores and grassy areas
Witness countless fur seals basking on rocks and playing in the water. A truly wild and unforgettable sight!
Young Seals Training
Shallows around the rocks
Watch playful pups learn to navigate the water and practice their swimming skills. Adorable and fascinating!
Seals on the Grass
Grassy verges near the colony
Be surprised as seals venture onto the grass to soak up the sun. A unique and charming behavior to observe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Trip Essential
Seal Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully
Roads can be rough in parts. Take it slow, especially near the colony as seals cross the road!
📏 Keep Your Distance
Admire the seals from afar. Move slowly to avoid startling them and respect their space.
📸 Amazing Photo Ops
Stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife make for incredible photos. Don't forget your camera!
🥪 Picnic with a View
Enjoy lunch in the parking lot while watching the seals. A truly memorable dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully
Roads can be rough in parts. Take it slow, especially near the colony as seals cross the road!
📏 Keep Your Distance
Admire the seals from afar. Move slowly to avoid startling them and respect their space.
📸 Amazing Photo Ops
Stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife make for incredible photos. Don't forget your camera!
🥪 Picnic with a View
Enjoy lunch in the parking lot while watching the seals. A truly memorable dining experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible abundance of fur seals at Cape Palliser, calling it a fantastic and amazing experience. The opportunity to see seals sunbathing on rocks, playing in the water, and even lounging on the grass is a major highlight. While the drive can be long and roads rough, the stunning landscape and the sheer number of seals make it a worthwhile destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
"This is probably the best spot to view fur seals in North Island. Plenty of them would be sunbathing on the rocks. Young ones get trained in the shallows around the rocks. Quite a few love to crawl up on the grass and enjoy sunshine while lying on the grass."
Amjad Ali
"Stopped here on the way to the light house (another 5 min drive down the road).
The road conditions aren't great in some sections but can easily do it in a car, just take your time.
The seal colony is spread out but can't miss them, there are hundreds of them!!! Be aware, they do cross the road!"
Matt _417
"Sea Lions are so cute but be extra careful approaching them or move slowly so they don’t surprise. I will definitely wanna see them again"
Ryan Espadilla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cape Palliser seal colony is approximately a 4-hour round trip drive from Wellington. The journey offers scenic views, but be prepared for some unpaved sections on the road leading to the colony. It's recommended to allow a full day for this excursion.
While the road conditions can be rough in some sections, most cars can manage the drive to the Cape Palliser seal colony. It's crucial to drive slowly and cautiously, especially as you approach the colony.
While there are other places to potentially see seals, the Cape Palliser seal colony is renowned for its abundance and accessibility, making the drive worthwhile for many visitors seeking a significant wildlife encounter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit the Cape Palliser seal colony. It is a natural habitat that is freely accessible to the public for observation.
The seals are generally visible throughout the day. Visiting during daylight hours will give you the best opportunity to observe their activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's important to maintain a respectful distance from the seals. While they are numerous, they are wild animals. Move slowly and avoid startling them to ensure their well-being and your safety.
Cape Palliser is a prime location for viewing New Zealand fur seals. You'll see adults sunbathing on the rocks and playful pups in the shallows.
There are basic facilities like a parking lot. Some visitors enjoy having a picnic here while watching the seals.
The Cape Palliser Lighthouse is just a short drive further down the road and offers stunning views of the coastline.
📸 📸 Photography
Bring a zoom lens to capture close-ups without disturbing the seals. Be patient, as they often move around. The dramatic coastal scenery also provides excellent backdrops for your photos.
Yes, as long as you maintain a safe distance and do not approach them aggressively. Remember that seals can be unpredictable, so prioritize safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Drive to Cape Palliser
It's important to note that the road can be narrow and winding in places. If you're prone to car sickness, you might want to take precautions. Despite the road conditions, the drive is generally manageable in a standard car, provided you exercise care. The remoteness of the location adds to its charm, offering a sense of escape and discovery as you head towards one of the North Island's most significant seal viewing spots.
Observing the Seals Responsibly
To ensure the well-being of the seals and your own safety, always maintain a respectful distance. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. The general advice from visitors is to move slowly and observe from afar.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit