Whale watching in Kaikoura is the must-do activity while in this beautiful, peaceful part of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island. Not only do you get a rare chance to get up close and personal with these majestic mammals, but you also get to choose how and where you’d like to see the whales from. Whether it’s boat, plane or helicopter, we’ve listed all the options here with the most recent details to help you plan your stay in Kaikoura.
We have a page dedicated to featuring all whale watching tour operators and companies in Kaikoura which includes up to date pricing, and you can also learn about the amazing geology of Kaikoura which is the very reason that this part of New Zealand is such a hotspot for seeing spectacular whales.
Discover which whale species you can see in Kaikoura and don’t forget the other intriguing and spectacular wildlife while you’re in town: Kaikoura’s dolphins, seabirds and fur seals are well worth the time to seek out for anyone who loves nature and seeing all of these fascinating animals in their natural habitats.
By Boat
Whale Watch Kaikoura | ||
![]() |
Tour Type: Marine tour by boat
Tour times: 7.15am, 10.00am and 12.45pm, 3.30pm(November-March) What you will see: Duration: |
Cost: Adult: $145 Child 3-15: $60 Children under 3 not permitted. Phone: Address: |
By Plane
Wings Over Whales Kaikoura | ||
![]() |
Tour Type: Air tour by plane
Tour times: Contact operator for information. What you will see: Duration: |
Cost: Adult (15+): $180 Child (4-14): $75 Infants under 3 free Phone: Address: |
Kaikoura Aero Club | ||
![]() |
Tour Type: Air tour by plane
Tour times: Contact operator for information. What you will see: Duration: |
Cost: Adult: $145 Phone: Address: |
By Helicopter
Kaikoura Helicopters World of Whales | ||
![]() |
Tour Type: Air tour by helicopter
Tour times: Contact operator for information. What you will see: Duration: Kaikoura Helicopters operates 364 days of the year subject to weather conditions. |
Cost (per person):
30 minute Flight: 40 minute Flight: Coastal Whalewatch: Top ‘n’ Tail: Phone: |
South Pacific Whale Watch | ||
Tour Type: Air tour by helicopter
Tour times: Contact operator for information. What you will see: Duration: Ocean Safari: 40 minutes Discoverer: 50 minutes Premier: 60 minutes |
Cost (per person):
30 Minute Flight: 40 Minute Flight: 50 Minute Flight: 60 Minute Flight: Phone: |
|
* All prices are in $NZ