The colony on the Otago Peninsula has been closed over winter while it underwent some interior renovations to improve the flow and look of the centre, which is run by the Otago Peninsula Trust.
A new feature would be an information and display area dedicated to Lance Richdale, the father of the albatross colony on the headland.
New signs were being completed and the gift shop was being developed to make the most of a large window with harbour views towards the city.
Lighting and displays were being updated in the albatross information room, the improvements including a night sky complete with Southern Cross to "twinkle" down on visitors.
It would lead to a cultural historical display featuring Korako Karetai and information on Fort Taiaroa.
That would lead to a track being developed to the car park.
The centre's toilets had been replaced with more ecologically sound systems to reduce water use.
Trust chairman Hoani Langsbury said an outdoor pa area was being developed at the rear of the centre.
Called Pa Pukekura, it would include a stylised waka and model middens. The area would be used as part of the centre's education programme.
The $5 charge to visit the centre would begin on opening day on October 1 and proceeds from that would go towards the trust meeting its conservation and environmental objectives, including helping out other charitable organisations on the peninsula, he said.
Members of the trust would not be charged the $5 fee.
