2 daysLikely to sell out
Photo: Richard Giddins, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia CommonsKaikoura
Canterbury and Mount Cook
At Kaikoura, a deep undersea canyon comes close to shore, bringing nutrients that feed sperm whales all year, plus dolphins, fur seals and albatrosses, all with snowy mountains behind.
Things to do
- Whale watching: Boat trips of about 3 hours, or a scenic flight.
- Dolphins: Boat trips with dusky dolphins, some letting you swim.
- Seal colony: Fur seals on the rocks at Point Kean.
- Peninsula walkway: Clifftop views over the coast and seals.
Tip: Book a morning whale watch: seas are often calmer, and if the trip is cancelled you can try again later.
Getting there
Kaikoura is on State Highway 1, about 2.5 hours north of Christchurch and 2 hours south of Picton, so it fits naturally after the Cook Strait ferry. The coastal road was rebuilt after the 2016 earthquake and is one of New Zealand's most scenic drives.
When to go
All year. Sperm whales are resident, dolphins are most numerous in summer, and winter brings humpback whales and snow capped mountains. Whale watch trips depend on sea conditions, so allow a backup slot.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Kaikoura
Every tour here includes Kaikoura in its itinerary. Best rated first.
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Kaikoura: questions
How long are whale watching trips in Kaikoura?
About 3 hours on the water; scenic flights take about 30 to 40 minutes.
When is the best time for whale watching in Kaikoura?
All year for sperm whales; humpbacks pass in winter and orcas visit at times.