Kaikoura Helicopters Extended Whale Watch
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Kaikoura, New Zealand
- 40 minutes (approx.)
- Flight time: 40 minutes
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Take in aerial views of the home of one of the world's largest marine mammals on this scenic helicopter flight in Kaikōura. Search for sperm whales, dolphins and have a better chance at seeing baleen whales. Get panoramic views of the South Island's rugged east coast. See whales feeding further offshore, away from the tourist boats.
- View sperm whales and other wildlife
- Explore the rugged Kaikōura coastline
- Live commentary from pilots
- Extended helicopter flight
What's Included
- Scenic helicopter excursion to view sperm whales and wildlife
- View from above Kaikoura’s deep-sea canyon while searching for a Giant Sperm Whale
- Explore the unique and rugged Kaikoura Coastline
- Live commentary from our pilots who are flying encyclopedias on the local area.
- Headset with microphone to clearly hear your commentary and ask questions on your journey
- Unique and uninterrupted views of magnificent marine mammals from above in your luxury helicopter
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 16 West End, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand
Across the road from Coopers Catch fish and chip restaurant and below the railway bridge.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
1
Kaikoura
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Total weight per passenger: 221 lbs
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Most travelers can participate
- A headset is provided with a microphone for communicating with your pilot
- Please call 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your booking +64 3 319 6609
- We recommend wearing covered shoes and bringing a warm jacket
- We recommend bringing your camera and sunglasses
- All passengers will be weighed before departure
- Your pilot in command will load helicopter based on weight and balance
- All flights are subject to weather conditions and minimum numbers. Please see our website for full terms and conditions
- If the weather does not allow you to fly, we will be happy to rebook you for a later time if your travel schedule allows.
- Options to fly to the whales from our other helicopter bases in Christchurch, Nelson, Wellington.
- Weight limitations apply. We require your weight on booking
- Please make sure to bring along any medication that you may need.
- You are welcome to bring along a facemask if you wish.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.5
based on 17 reviews
Jason_D, Feb 2026
We did not see whales. The only thing that could have made up for it would have been an engaging guide sharing about the area or the ocean and the marine life may at least have left us with a bit of insight. Another example: when I called to confirm the flight, a simple thing like letting us know where we could park, or having binoculars along on the flight, a story about migrating blue whales, any sign of passion about whales or New Zealand or the ocean would have enhanced the experience. Again, had we seen whales, this would be a non-issue. However, as NOT seeing whales is a known risk, I would recommend that the service provider hedge against disappointed clients like myself by putting in the extra effort on future flights.
Craig_T, Mar 2024
What an amazing experience!! We were lucky enough to see 2 whales, a pod of dolphins, and a lot of seals. Being able to view these creatures from this perspective is so cool! Highly recommend!
Sophie_A, May 2022
Amazing experience! It was my first helicopter experience and it was absolutely magical! Staff and pilot were very professional and friendly! We were lucky enough to see whales after 5min being in the air.
Pilots gave us the option to fly longer or not and make the decision while onboard. Highly highly recommend! One of the best things I’ve ever done in NZ in 4 years spent here!
Response from Host, Apr 2023
Thank you for your review. Please do share your images on our social pages, we would love to see your memories captured with #kaikourahelicopters
Daniel_E, Dec 2024
Die Basis von Kaikoura Helicopters war einfach zu finden. Nach kurzer unkompliziertem Check in sind wir dann auf das Abflugfeld wo wir vom Piloten in Empfang genommen wurden. Nach Einführung ging es dann auch schon ab auf den Flug.
Schon nach ca 10 Minuten hatten wir einen Wal an der Oberfläche. Was für ein Anblick. Das rund 19 Meter lange Tier liess sich an der Oberfläche treiben und wir konnten von beiden Seiten des Helicopters den Wal beobachten. Es war einmalig und unvergesslich.
Danach ging es weiter und wir konnten eine grosse Gruppe von Delphinen beobachten. Das waren sicher hundert Tiere, die sich im Meer tummelten.
Danach ging es zum Rückflug. Sanfte Landung und Check out. Wir würden sofort wieder kommen. Danke für das tolle Erlebnis.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Thank you for your review
From $304.84
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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