Whale-watching in Kaikoura [kayaking]: Recommended tours & tickets

Whale Watch is located in the small coastal town of Kaikōura on the East Coast of New Zealand’s South Island a scenic two and a half-hour drive north from Christchurch and two hour drive south from Picton. Kaikōura is a special place of lush pastures and towering, snow covered peaks that fall to the sea. This rare magic continues just offshore where a deep undersea canyon combines with unusual sea currents to attract an extraordinary abundance of marine life, the most famous being the Giant Sperm Whale. Whale Watch is New Zealand's only vessel-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the world’s largest toothed predator the Giant Sperm Whale in their natural environment at all times of the year. Whale Watch scheduled tours operate daily. Our 95% success rate means we guarantee an 80% refund if your tour does not see a whale. Whale Watch tours are extremely popular so we recommend booking early.

Kaikoura's Original Kayak Operator - Est 1998 Celebrating over 25 years of operation! New Zealand's only Sea Kayak operator that holds a marine mammal permit to view Whales. Kaikoura's only Kayak operator that holds a marine mammal permit to view Dolphins, Whales and Seals. New Zealand's 1st Friend of the Sea sustainable operator for Dolphin and Whale viewing. Traditional double sea kayaks with cockpits and spray skirts for a dry ride and rudders for easy steering. Qualified New Zealand Guides. 100% guaranteed to view Fur Seals on all tours. Family Friendly - operating year round. The Wildlife Kayaking tour is the real deal!

Come fly with Wings Over Whales for an incredible opportunity to witness the largest toothed whales in the world from above! Whale watching from the air allows you to see the entire animal, as well as giving you epic views of the scenery, and the ability to cover large areas to see even more whales and dolphins. All our aircraft are high-winged for unimpeded viewing, and are equipped to the highest safety standards. We are the only company in Kaikoura that uses real-time tracking systems in all our aircraft. We operate an exceptional product where every customer is treated like part of the family. Book today for an unforgettable whale watching experience!

Experience the natural treasures of New Zealand on a whale-watching cruise from the picturesque town of Kaikoura. Look for the mighty Sperm Whales that live in these waters along with Dusky Dolphins, New Zealand Fur Seals and Seabirds. Admire breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges during your free time in Kaikoura's township and visit a seal colony on land. Wrap up the day with a scenic drive back to Christchurch and a wine tasting at a vineyard in North Canterbury (time permitting). Your experienced guide shares informative commentary throughout the day on this fun and fascinating tour.

Kaikoura's Original Kayak Operator - Est 1998 Celebrating 25 years of operation! New Zealand's only Sea Kayak operator that holds a marine mammal permit to view Whales. Kaikoura's only Kayak operator that holds a marine mammal permit to view Dolphins and Seals. New Zealand's 1st Friend of the Sea sustainable operator for Dolphin and Whale viewing. Traditional double sea kayaks with cockpits and spray skirts for a dry ride and rudders for easy steering. Qualified New Zealand guides. 100% guaranteed to view Fur Seals on all tours. Family Friendly - operating year round. The Wildlife Kayaking tour is the real deal!