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  • Explore Christchurch
  • Places to see
  • Things to do
  • Top sights
  • Outside Christchurch

Christchurch Gondola

International Antarctic Centre

Avon River

Christchurch Tramway

Orana Wildlife Park

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Canterbury Museum

Cathedral Square, Christchurch

Sumner Beach

North Hagley Park

Sign of the Kiwi Cafe

Awaroa/Godley Head

Nearby sights

Banks PeninsulaAttraction in Christchurch City Council, New Zealand

Akaroa HarbourAttraction in Canterbury, New Zealand, New Zealand

  • Top experiences
  • Interests
  • Traveler type

Bus & minivan tours

Hiking

Rail tours

Hop-on Hop-off tours

Cable car tours

Dolphin & whale watching

Wine tasting & winery tours

Canoe & kayak tours

Hot springs

Plantation & farm tours

Zoos

River rafting

Explore more things to do in Christchurch

Culture & history

Food & drinks

Extreme sports & adrenaline

Safaris & wildlife activities

Explore more things to do in Christchurch

Good for groups

Small group activities

Family-friendly activities

Activities for couples

For adults

Explore more things to do in Christchurch

From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watching Day Tour

4.32 out of 5 stars
4.3
4.32 out of 5 stars
100 reviews
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From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watching Day Tour
4.32 out of 5 stars
4.3
4.32 out of 5 stars
100 reviews
Likely to sell out

Get ready for a full-day adventure from Christchurch to Kaikoura. Enjoy stunning coastal views, tasty local food, and the chance to spot majestic whales – an unforgettable day of fun and wildlife.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 9 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English
Pickup included
Please be waiting at your selected pickup location at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. Please see pick up times below: 06:55 Hotel Elms 07:03 Scenic Hotel Cotswold 07:08 Sudima City 07:10 Crowne Plaza 07:12 Novotel City 07:14 Distinction 07:17 Christchurch City Hotel 07:20 Christchurch Bus Interchange (Intercity stop) 07:24 Breakfree 07:27 Rydges Latimer 07:30 Urbanz 07:33 Fino 07:35 The George 07:40 Hotel Give 07:55 Commodore Christchurch Airport 08:00 Sudima Christchurch Airport

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

C
Claudia – Italy

Our guide Will was great, and it was a wonderful sunny day in Kaikoura. We went for a spectacular coastal walk in the morning where we could see lots of seals, then had fish and chips for lunch (included in the tour) and during the whale watching tour we saw two sperm whales and lots of dusky dolphins.

E
Edward – Singapore

Hannah was a very Friendly and Caring guide My family truly love 🥰 this trip and Planning Seeing the 02 Sperm Whales and Dolphins were the most amazing moments in our Life

Select participants and date

Participants

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    15 pickup location options:

    Hotel Elms Christchurch, Commodore Airport Hotel, Distinction Christchurch Hotel, BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch, Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel, Urbanz Accomodation Christchurch, Sudima Christchurch City, Christchurch Bus Interchange, Rydges Latimer Christchurch, Heartland Hotel Cotswold, Hotel Give, Sudima Christchurch Airport, Fino Hotel and Suites, The George, Christchurch City Hotel

  • Van

    (40 minutes)

    Waipara

    Wine tasting (30 minutes)

    Optional

  • Van

    (45 minutes)

  • Cheviot

    Break time (5 minutes)

  • Van

    (1 hour)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Kaikoura

    Lunch (30 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Kaikoura

    Whale watching (4 hours)

  • Van

    (20 minutes)

    Kaikoura

    Wildlife viewing (10 minutes)

    Optional

  • Van

    (2.5 hours)

  • 15 drop-off locations:

    Christchurch Bus Interchange, Rydges Latimer Christchurch, Sudima Christchurch City, BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch, Urbanz Accomodation Christchurch, Heartland Hotel Cotswold, Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel, Hotel Elms Christchurch, Commodore Airport Hotel, Fino Hotel and Suites, The George, Distinction Christchurch Hotel, Christchurch City Hotel, Hotel Give, Sudima Christchurch Airport

Main stop
Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Admire picturesque coastal views as you wind your way down a scenic coastal road
  • Marvel at the incredible local wildlife on a thrilling whale watching excursion
  • Indulge in some local New Zealand wine or beer in the tow n of Waipara
  • Learn about the area and its varied wildlife from your guide along the way

Full description

**Christchurch**: Our journey begins as we depart the Garden City and head north toward our destination. Along the way, your knowledgeable driver will highlight some of the key sights in Christchurch.

**Cheviot (15 min)**: We’ll make a quick stop in the charming town of Cheviot, tucked along one of New Zealand’s largest coastal routes. Here, you can stretch your legs and refuel before we continue through the scenic Hundalee Hills, keeping an eye out for surfers and local wildlife, including seals. The views along the way are nothing short of stunning.

**Kaikoura (4 hrs)**: Upon reaching Kaikoura, you'll have some time to enjoy lunch before heading out for an exciting whale-watching tour. On a catamaran, you’ll have the chance to see sperm whales, and if you're lucky, orcas in the Pacific Ocean. After the tour, our driver will pick you up from the reception and return you to the city.

**If Time Allows: Waipara**: If time permits, we’ll stop in the Waipara wine region, renowned for its vineyards and lush green countryside. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to taste wines from a locally-owned vineyard. If wine isn’t your thing, beer is also available as an alternative.

**Christchurch**: After a day packed with incredible landscapes, experiences, and unforgettable views, sit back and relax as we head back to Christchurch.

**Please Note**: This tour is focused on whale watching, so there will be no time for local walks or shopping. Additional stops for toilet breaks will be made along the way.

**PLEASE NOTE**: THE WHALE WATCHING ADD-ON IS VERY POPULAR AND TENDS TO SELL OUT QUICKLY, SO WE RECOMMEND KEEPING AN EYE ON YOUR INBOX FOR ANY UPDATES OR CHANGES TO YOUR TOUR.

Includes

  • Transport from Christchurch to Kaikoura
  • Guide
  • Whale watching cruise
  • Lunch
  • Wine/beer Tasting
  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Wi-Fi
  • Tips

Important information

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Comfortable clothes

Know before you go

  • Please notify the activity provider of any dietary requirements prior to travelling
  • If you are prone to sea sickness, bring some anti-nausea pills with you
Likely to sell out

From $223.44 per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 100 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.6/5
  • Transportation
    4.6/5
  • Value for money
    4.1/5

Customer photos

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C
Claudia – ItalyApril 10, 2025 – Verified booking
Our guide Will was great, and it was a wonderful sunny day in Kaikoura. We went for a spectacular coastal walk in the morning where we could see lots of seals, then had fish and chips for lunch (included in the tour) and during the whale watching tour we saw two sperm whales and lots of dusky dolphins.
E
Edward – SingaporeMarch 19, 2025 – Verified booking
Hannah was a very Friendly and Caring guide My family truly love 🥰 this trip and Planning Seeing the 02 Sperm Whales and Dolphins were the most amazing moments in our Life
A
Alison – United KingdomMarch 1, 2025 – Verified booking
Seeing the whales-excellent Fish and chips- very stodgy

Product ID: 476383

Activity provider:Cheeky Kea Tours
  • New Zealand
  • South Island
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