Seeing an albatross in your local museum is an interesting experience as they are such large birds but it is difficult to imagine them in the wild. As the only mainland colony in the world the Royal Albatross Centre not too far from Dunedin on the Otago peninsula is a must see attraction. As you drive up to the centre (we took it in as part of a Nature Trail Tour) you see the birds circling the colony outpost and they don't really look that big. I say they don't look that big but then you realise that you can clearly see them and you are still 1/2 a mile away from the centre. There is a very modern reception area with a well stocked souvineer shop and lots of information to read before you begin the tour. You are shown into a room with yet more information and greeted by your tour guide who gives you a warm welcome before the into documentary (David Attenborough) film begins. This sets the seen for what you are about to experience. The groups are relatively small so as not to overcrowd the main viewing station. You have to walk up a pretty steep hill for a couple of hundred yards and as you do this you are constantly looking skyward as these huge silent birds glide past a matter of a few feet above your head as they circle the hill. Once at the viewing station you are within 10-15 feet of nesting Albatross. Again they don't look that big on the ground but I assure you they are. The time at the viewing station (pardon the pun) flies by as you are hypnotised by the majesty of them. There are more exhibits at the station but you are hard pressed to view them as someone will be calling 'Here comes another one'. A truly uniquely enjoyable experience!