Kaikoura Whale Watching
Known as the whalewatching capital of New Zealand, Kaikoura affords thousands of visitors each year with a unique opportunity to view the magnificent sperm whales off its coast. The town lies conveniently near the migratory route of the whales. Early European settlement of the town was linked to whaling activities and the sperm whale was hunted almost to extinction. Today, they are respected as a vital natural resource. Sperms whales are most likely to be seen October to August, and orcas from December to March.
Whale watching operators include:
- Royale Tours
A -based company offering whale and dolphin watching. Whale watch flights are also available.
- Whale Watch Kaikoura
- Kaikoura Helicopter
Helicopter tours to view the whales and the area's stunning scenery.
- Wings over Whales
Scenic flights to see sperm whales and marine life off the Kaikoura Coast.
Other tours focusing on marine life include:
- Dolphin Encounter
Swimming and/or watching the exuberant dusky dolphin.
- Ocean Wings Kaikoura
Tours to view some of the world's largest sea-going birds, including albatross and mollymawks.
- Seal Swim Kaikoura
New Zealand's original seal swim.