Kaikoura

Tours

Take a whale-watching cruise off the Kaikoura coast, and see giant sperm whales in their natural environment. Enjoy onboard commentary as you encounter a range of wildlife, including fur seals, pods of dolphins, and the endangered wandering albatross. Set sail on a catamaran, equipped with engines that minimize underwater noise and nonpolluting toilets. Take in the views from the large outdoor decks or stay inside the air-conditioned interiors with comfortable seating and plasma screens displaying marine wildlife animations. Gain an insight into the habitat with scientific information and indigenous knowledge about these creatures from the crew. Passenger numbers are kept well below the vessel's capacity to ensure a more personal experience.

Enjoy a panoramic whale-watching flight, with stunning scenic views along the spectacular Kaikoura coastline. Only from the air can you appreciate the huge size of the mighty sperm whale, a frequent visitor to the waters off Kaikoura. After a safety briefing and overview of your scenic flight, hop onboard for your whale-watching adventure in the skies. Every passenger gets a guaranteed window seat to enjoy maximum viewing of the ocean and its inhabitants below. On your 40-minute whale-watching flight, you may see sperm whales, dusky dolphins, humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and other marine life. After finding whales enjoy a scenic flight of Kaikoura and the dramatic surrounding scenery, including snow-clad mountain ranges and turquoise ocean reefs. Whales are wild animals and sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, with over 30 years of experience and extensive local knowledge, the activity provider aims to give the best chance of sightings. Honest information on the likelihood of spotting a whale will be provided before the flight.

Begin your adventure in the town of Kaikoura where you will meet your professional guides. Receive a short safety briefing and paddling lesson before being allocated all the necessary equipment for the tour. Head out on the waters of the beautiful ocean surrounding the city. Kayak along the Kaikoura coastline, where you will take in the magnificent views of sheer cliff faces, craggy rocks, and mountain ranges while searching for chance encounters with Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins. Experience the excitement of watching cute fur seals ducking, weaving, and diving around your kayak. During your tour, you will have the opportunity to paddle gently along with these beautiful animals as they swim around the Kaikoura Peninsula hunting for their favourite feed of octopus. This tour is suitable for all ages and abilities while operating year-round, and doesn't require any previous kayaking experience. Encounter a diverse range of wildlife on the New Zealand coastline and see some of the country's most beautiful animals.

Embark on the ultimate aerial whale-watching adventure and experience nature's wonders from a breathtaking perspective! Join us for a scenic flight along the picturesque Kaikōura coastline, where you'll have the chance to witness resident sperm whales in their entirety and glide above the migration paths of magnificent Blue whales, Humpback whales, Minke whales, Orcas, playful dolphins, and more—all from a guaranteed window seat! Before your flight, enjoy our fun and engaging pre-flight experience, featuring an audio-visual safety briefing and a fascinating talk about the diverse marine life in the region. Our knowledgeable pilots will enrich your journey with insights into Kaikōura's unique marine ecosystem and the incredible scenery, including snow-capped mountain ranges and vibrant turquoise reefs. Why Choose Us: - Guaranteed window seats for unparalleled viewing. - Learn from the best with our expertly-guided talks and briefings. - Soar with the longest-operating aerial whale-watching provider in Kaikōura. - Enjoy stunning views of the coastline and mountains. - Benefit from local knowledge and detailed storytelling. - Convenient amenities including a small retail and café area with free hot beverages for patrons, large carpark, viewing lounge, and accessible toilets. Book your flight today and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of these majestic marine giants and their stunning surroundings, creating unforgettable memories in Kaikōura!

**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.

Embark on a guided tour in Kaikōura, where nature meets adventure. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of New Zealand's South Island, enjoy an eco-friendly ziplining experience and soar above the breathtaking landscapes of Kaikōura. Make your way to Rakanui Station, a 3000-acre working farm with rolling valleys and hills covered in native trees, trickling rivers and fords, cascading waterfalls, and lush farmland. Start with a 4X4 expedition through the farm’s valleys and paddocks and past grazing livestock. Then, follow a short natural trail through the native New Zealand forest to where the adventure stage of your zipline experience begins. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you glide through the air, suspended by ziplines that traverse lush forests and reveal panoramic views of the ocean. As you zip from platform to platform, gain insights into the local flora, fauna and conservation efforts from your guides, adding an educational element to your adventure. Risk Disclosure There is an element of risk involved in any adventure activity. By taking part in EcoZip Adventures Zipline Tour you will be exposed to these risks: - General Difficulties - lack of fitness, sunburn - Harm (sprains, bumps, bruises) - from slips, trip and falls etc. - Serious harm due to: - Concussion - from zipping to fast - Worsening a current medical condition - including pregnancy, concussion & heart conditions - Serious harm or death from falling EcoZip Adventures has robust safety management processes to manage these risks, but we will need your help. Please listen carefully to instructions, do as we ask, and let us know if you have any concerns. Please copy and paste the URL shown below to read the Risks Associated with Ziplining prior to booking. https://www.ecozipadventures.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Risks-Associated-with-Ziplining-2023-Final.pdf

Join your guide as you kayak in the evening to experience the stunning glow of the seaward-facing Kaikoura Mountains. Watch seals dive and maneuver around and under your kayak as the light changes towards the end of the day. Paddle with them as they swim around the peninsula hunting for octopus. Along the way keep an eye out for blue penguins or albatross and possible encounters with dusky dolphins. Your kayak is enclosed, safe, stable, and easily steered using a rudder. It's fast on the water, but still keeps you warm and dry. Your qualified and experienced local guide will teach you how to handle the kayak and paddle you through areas used years ago by local Maori and early whalers. Capture twlight images of your experience amongest the stunning backdrop of the Kaikoura Peninsula and Seaward Ranges.

Meeting point - Seal Kayak Kaikoura is based right next to the towns centre where you will meet your awesome tour guide providing you with all the gear you need for a safe and enjoyable experience, come early and try our delicious gelato or sorbet. After a short safety video your guide will then drive you to the best kayaking destination of the day (only 3-5 minute drive away) toilets will be available before heading out onto the ocean. A quick how to use and operate these awesome kayaks then off we go! Keep your eyes peeled as we never know what to encounter as we kayak through and around rocky outcrops viewing the cool New Zealand Fur Seals, don't be surprised if one of these special creatures swim right up to you. Blue Penguins and Albatross are a common sight on our tours. Our easy to use hands free kayaks are suited for all ages and ability's, Perfect for a family day out. Never used a kayak before? no worries! you do not require any previous kayaking experience. We look forward to meeting you and showing you the amazing sights and marine life Kaikoura has to offer.

Let us take you on an adventure, exploring the Kaikoura peninsula's coastline by sunset whilst taking in the awe-inspiring Kaikoura ranges from the water, all with the excitement of having an intimate encounter with NZ fur seals (Kekeno) both on the land and in the ocean. The unique pedal system that powers you around the ocean is silent and allows you the best opportunity to view wildlife, such as seals, penguins and native seabirds, without disturbing them. A truly unique and special way to view and photograph the spectacular mountains of Kaikoura is from the ocean, with the bonus of it being during sun set. The tour combines both local indigenous history as well as post-colonial whaling and sealing alongside the most informative small tour wildlife experience Kaikoura has to offer. Let our expert guides show you what wildlife lurks on the edges of the day and give you ample photo opportunities, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This is our most popular tour and Kaikoura's only true sunset experience.

**Itinerary:** - **Christchurch**: We begin our journey by departing from Christchurch, the Garden City, and heading north towards our destination. Your knowledgeable driver will point out key highlights of the city along the way. - **Cheviot (15 mins)**: Our first stop is the charming town of Cheviot, a hidden gem along one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal routes. We’ll take a short break here to stretch our legs before continuing through the stunning Hundalee Hills. Keep an eye out for surfers and local wildlife, including seals, as we drive through breathtaking panoramas. - **Kaikoura**: Upon arriving in Kaikoura, you’ll have time to enjoy a delicious lunch before your dolphin encounter experience. Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to see dolphins, and you’ll get the chance to observe these playful creatures from a boat. After your tour, we’ll pick you up from the reception to head back to Christchurch. - **If Time Allows: Waipara**: If time permits, we’ll make a stop in the Waipara wine region, one of New Zealand’s premier wine areas. Here, you can sample wines from a locally-owned vineyard. If wine isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for a refreshing beer. - **Christchurch**: After a day filled with diverse landscapes, exciting experiences, and stunning scenery, you can sit back and relax as we return to the Garden City. **Please Note**: Additional stops will be made for toilet breaks. This tour is focused on the Dolphin Encounter experience, so there will be no time for local walks or shopping.