French Pass is a land and seascape like no other in New Zealand. It is a region of contrasts between shelter and storm, human occupation and nature conservation. The deep waters of Cook Straight, rich in nutrients, flood the outer sounds attracting seabirds and marine mammals.

Offshore islands dominate the seascape and are nesting places for many species. One of these species is the rare King Shag, endemic to the Marlborough Sounds. There are only 600 birds and one of the main colonies is 30 min by boat from French Pass. Other smaller colonies, including a breeding colony, can be seen closer to French Pass and birds can regularly be seen transiting the French Pass Passage. King shag is one of five shag species found close to French Pass. With its diverse waterways French Pass accommodates the feeding habits of many shag species including the Spotted, Pied, and Little Black shag.

Seasonal migration, from around Sept, brings Sooty and Flesh-footed shearwater, Westland Petrel, Arctic skua, Fairy Prion, Giant Petrel and Mollymawks. Other species that can be seen year round include the worlds smallest penguin, the Little Blue Penguin, Fluttering shearwater, Common diving Petrel, Cape pigeon, Australasian gannet, Reef Heron, White-fronted Tern, Variable oystercatcher, Caspian Tern, Red Billed and Black Back Gull.

In the still of the night it is common to hear the haunting call of the Morepork and Little blue Penguin. Other birds regularly encountered in the village are Weka, Bellbird, Tui, New Zealand Pigeon, Paradise Shelduck, Pukeko, the rare New Zealand Falcon, New Zealand Pipit, Silvereye, Yellowhammer, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Grey warbler, Blackbird, Kingfisher and Song Thrush along with other species.
French Pass Sea Safaris specialise in on water, birding tours. An ornithologist can be arranged to accompany specialist groups. Enquire about group bookings.

TOURS

'Wildlife Discovery Tour' Birds, marine mammals, marine life and history. Tours depart 2pm Daily. Price $95 pp (min 2 person).

'King Shag & Outer Island Tour' Visit a king Shag colony on a group of offshore Islands. (Can be seen on the nest to December) Departure by arrangement Price $160 pp. Minimum numbers apply.

Chetwode Island Tour. This tour to the Chetwode Island group runs February March and April. Chetwode Islands are a nature reserve with Yellow Crowned Parakeet as well as other native species. This tour departs French Pass taking in the Trio Islands King Shag colony as well as the Chetwode Group. A wonderful chance to see a mix of birds and marine mammals. All birds are viewed from the boat. Departure by arrangement. Price $180pp. Minimum numbers apply.

'Wonderful wildlife, scenery and accommodation, thank you'.

'It was marvelous to see the ORCA!! Also great walks and hospitality'.

'thank you for a relaxing break and wildlife retreat'. 

Make your enquiry or reservation now

French Pass Sea Safaris & Beachfront Villas
Danny and Lyn Boulton
French Pass, Marlborough Sounds
New Zealand

Tel/Fax: +64 3576 5204
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