Kaikōura Whale Watching Scenic Flight (40 Minutes)
Recommended by 96% of travelers
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Kaikoura, New Zealand
- 40 minutes (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
The waters off the coast of Kaikoura play host to some of nature’s most majestic giants: sperm whales. Take in a stunning seascape while keeping an eye out for sperm, blue, and humpback whales; dolphins; orcas; and several other varieties of aquatic mammals on this small-group whale-watching flight over the shimmering waters.
- Whale-watching flight to see aquatic mammals in their natural habitat
- Witness the dramatic mountains in the distance of Kaikoura as you fly
- Kaikoura Airport is a convenient 10-minute drive from Kaikoura
- Small-group experience: Only share the flight with minimal other travelers
What's Included
- 40-minute scenic flight
- Window seat for every passenger
- Headset with live pilot commentary
- Hotel pickup/drop-off
- Food & drinks
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 627 State Highway 1, Peketā 7374, New Zealand
At Kaikoura Airport, 10min drive south of Kaikoura. Turn right on arrival, Free parking. Checkin 30min before your flight. Flight times may be adjusted to align with whale dive times, this may result in earlier departures. If you are not present at the checkin time, the flight may depart without you
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
627 State Highway 1 (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Infants must sit on laps
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Most travelers can participate
- Please check in 30 minutes prior to your flight time.
- If you are over 120kg, please contact us. Unfortunately we are unable to provide refunds if you arrive and exceed our weight limits, please call us in advance to discuss if you have any concerns.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 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
Featured review
Rachel_D
We saw 2 sperm whales and a humpback, as well as dolphins. We were fortunate the weather was really clear, so the view of the whales and also the scenic views of the mountains and peninsula were excellent. Everyone gets a window seat, and the pilot circles the whales in both directions so everyone gets the chance of an excellent view.
I’ve done lots of boat-based whale watching previously, so it was great to do something different - and get a clear view of the ‘whole whale’, not just the tail! Seeing these giants blow from above was an incredible experience!
Everyone on our flight was fine; but I can imagine that if you’re prone to motion sickness, the circling might get to you a bit, and be wise to take some pills before-hand.
The only other observation is that whilst the pilot gives you a great explanation through your headset, you can’t reply, so not possible to ask any questions, and we had a few.
Overall, an outstanding and memorable experience.
Reviews
4.9
based on 227 reviews
Rachel_D, Mar 2026
We saw 2 sperm whales and a humpback, as well as dolphins. We were fortunate the weather was really clear, so the view of the whales and also the scenic views of the mountains and peninsula were excellent. Everyone gets a window seat, and the pilot circles the whales in both directions so everyone gets the chance of an excellent view.
I’ve done lots of boat-based whale watching previously, so it was great to do something different - and get a clear view of the ‘whole whale’, not just the tail! Seeing these giants blow from above was an incredible experience!
Everyone on our flight was fine; but I can imagine that if you’re prone to motion sickness, the circling might get to you a bit, and be wise to take some pills before-hand.
The only other observation is that whilst the pilot gives you a great explanation through your headset, you can’t reply, so not possible to ask any questions, and we had a few.
Overall, an outstanding and memorable experience.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thanks for flying with us over beautiful Kaikoura! Sounds like a great trip and we are glad to hear you enjoyed it.
The pilots are always available after the flight to answer any questions, and if you can remember you questions feel free to reach out to us! We would be more than happy to answer them.
Shane_E, Jan 2026
We had a perfect day for our flight, unfortunately didnt see any Whales just a few dolphins. Was a little concerned to see the young pilot on his personal phone between his legs rather than looking for whales during our flight.
Have done this flight before and saw two Sperm Whales with a keen eyed pilot. Learnt that the boat tuours run a hydrophone and have a good idea when the whales will come up so will do that next time.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thanks for flying with us. Working with wildlife means we can never 100% guarantee a whale sighting. As we primarily see sperm whales, it’s important to note that these incredible animals are deep divers and can spend anywhere from 40–80 minutes underwater at a time. While we do our best to track their movements and behaviours, whales may also be resting, diving deeper, or hunting, all of which can change their behaviour and affect sightings.
Regarding your concern about the pilot’s age, age should not be a factor. All of our pilots are fully qualified, highly trained, and undergo extensive Kaikōura area and whale watching specific training, which exceeds standard requirements. This is regardless of what ages our pilots are.
Pilots also use mobile devices for approved tracking software, which helps monitor whale dive times and locations. These tools are an important part of safe and effective operations, and are used only when necessary during flight.
We appreciate your feedback and thank you again for choosing to fly with us.
Richard_S, Dec 2025
Appears to be well run with well maintained Cesnas. Pilot did a very good job with flying and narrating. Only saw 1 whale, but that is the luck of the draw (the flight before mine saw 3). Location is easy to reach with ample parking.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We’re glad you enjoyed the flight.
Whale sightings can be unpredictable, but thats what makes seeing these amazing creatures extra special! we’re pleased you still had a great experience.
We’d love to welcome you back to Kaikōura in the future!
Ernie_M, Dec 2025
Captain Ben flew us over Hikurangi Marine Reserve, searching for whales and finding many while providing fantastic information about the locale and the marine life. He professionally and effortlessly delivered a five star memorable experience. Highly recommended.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re gladto hear you had such a memorable experience over the Hikurangi Marine Reserve. Captain Ben will be delighted to hear your kind words. His knowledge and passion for the marine environment truly shine. Thanks for the recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back to Kaikōura again.
Michaela_K, Nov 2025
Was fun to see a whale and dolphins from a bird's-eye view. Smooth start and landing. We felt safe the whole time
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thanks for flying with us! I will make sure to pass your kind words onto Alex.
Safe travels!
KarlGuenter_A, Nov 2025
Ot was a great fligt. Observing a whale and dolphins from above.
Just the advertised and paid 40 minutes came just to 31 minutes if flight time!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thanks for joining us for a flight, glad you enjoyed seeing our amazing marine mammals!
Upon further investigation, it appears that your booking integrated incorrectly with our system and unfortunately booked you onto the wrong flight type. This is not the experience we aim to deliver, and we sincerely apologise for this mishap. Our technical team is already working with the provider to ensure this issue does not happen again, and we appreciate you bringing it to our attention.
Once again, our apologies for the issues you encountered. We would very much like to make this right, please contact us directly at info@airkaikoura.co.nz so we can arrange a partial refund for you.
Thank you again for your feedback, and we wish you all the best with your travels and we look forward to hearing from you.
Dawn_D, Apr 2025
Fabulous! Loved this trip. We saw two sperm whales and a humpback whale as well as lots of dolphins. Our original flight time was 11am, but the weather was bad so it was cancelled, but luckily the weather opened up and we managed to re-arrange the flight for 2pm (in the meantime we went to see the Kaikoura seal colony and had lunch in town!).
The plane doesn’t fly far out to sea and circles above the whales when the pilot spots one. The pilot also gives a great running commentary. My daughter found the circling made her feel sick, but she suffers with motion sickness on boats and planes anyway!
We were out over the sea for nearly 40 minutes and it was an amazing experience. Highly recommended.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thank you for the fantastic review! We're so glad the weather cleared and you were able to rebook. It sounds like you made the most of your day in Kaikōura! Seeing sperm whales, a humpback, and dolphins all in one flight is incredible. We really appreciate your kind words about the pilot and commentary, and we’re thrilled you had such a memorable experience. Thanks again!
Ian_B, Mar 2025
😀-nice plane, good value, great staff from check in to pilot, good communication, staff keen to get us in air as sperm whale spotted
🙁-nothing
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Thank you for your lovely review. Happy to hear you had a great flight!
Richard_M, Mar 2025
Awesome experience, great pilot. Whale sightings well coordinated with ships also seeking whales. Made sure both sides of plane got great views
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Thanks for choosing to fly with us! I am glad you enjoyed your flight and the local Kaikoura marine life!
Judit_G, Feb 2025
5-star experience, we got to see 3 whales, the first one just a few minutes after take-off. Crew were amazing too.
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed your flight with us. happy to hear you seen a few whales too!!!
Kate_V, Feb 2025
Extraordinary experience ever on the plan. We saw 2 whales, blue whale and sperm whale. Nice flight and safe. So much fun.
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Wow sounds like a great variety of whales! Thats awesome! Thanks so much for flying with us, happy to hear you had a great time!
Gary_B, Feb 2025
Fantastic experience. We loved the flight in general, but saw 2 sperm whales and 2 orca. The pilot was great, making sure that all on board had a great view by circling the animals in both directions in turn. Would highly recommend
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Hi, thanks for taking the time to fly with us and leave us a review! Happy to hear you enjoyed your flight with us.
Doreen_S, Feb 2025
Amazing! Staff were super careful and attentive before the flight.
We saw 2 sperm whales, 4 Orcas and then 7 pilot whales in 45 mins !!
Guess it was the best time to go!
Wonderful experience. Super weather and the Whales were just something else !!!!! 10/10 for everything! Thanks Guys!!
Response from Host, Feb 2025
I am glad to hear you enjoyed your flight with us! We are happy to be able to show you the amazing marine life and beautiful scenery in Kaikoura. Thanks for flying with us.
Becky_L, Jan 2025
Wonderful staff and pilot! We saw a sperm whale and the pilot did great going from each for everyone to see. I get motion sick so the length of the ride was perfect.
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Awesome, glad to hear you got to see one of our mighty sperm whales - They are pretty impressive creatures!
Thanks for coming along and taking the time to leave a review.
William_C, Jan 2025
An awesome experience that we would highly recommend as part of any trip to Kiakoura. The company will also aid in getting you to and from the airport when possible. We were able to see hundreds of dusky dolphins and beautiful views in every direction.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Thank you for coming along to experience beautiful Kaikoura. We appreciate you taking the time to leave a review.
Alex_K, Dec 2024
Excellent organisation and brilliant pilot who showed exceptional professional skills and attention to detail
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Thanks for coming along to fly with us and to take the time to leave a review
David_T, Dec 2024
We had some challenging conditions for our flight which meant that our departure actually got cancelled. The team worked hard to rebook everyone onto flights later on in the day though, and so we did end up heading out a few hours later. The whole experience was fab - everybody in the plane gets a window seat, and the pilot (Alex) worked hard to make sure that we spent equal amounts of time circling around our whale sighting on both the left and the right sides. The team are in constant contact with other flights and the whale watching boats, and even time the individual flights with when they think will be the optimum time to spend with a whale based on the area they’re in, and how long (on average) that particular whale dives for. Overall, I’d highly recommend this - such a special way to be able to experience whale watching which you don’t get elsewhere in the world, and allows you much greater opportunity to see the full scale of the animal (from above).
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Hey David, thanks so much for coming along for a flight with us. Working with weather AND wildlife can make things a bit tricky sometimes, but I am glad we could get you up to experience whale watching with us! I will make sure to pass your kind words onto Alex.
vy_l, Dec 2024
We were luckily able to spot one and only whale right after take off. And also able to spot school of dolphins. What I like is I don't get sea sick and fast, saving my time for other activities. Overall great experience!
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Thanks for coming along and experiencing whale watching from the air! Glad you enjoyed your flight.
Brad_E, Dec 2024
Awesome experience. The team kindly offered me to get on an earlier flight than my original booking to work around the timing of a whale. Lucky enough to see a whale on the flight. Good crew, super nice. Will be coming back.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Thanks for being flexible and and working with us (and the whales!). Glad you had a good flight with us.
Matthew_N, Nov 2024
All of the staff we interacted with were so kind and friendly. You could tell they genuinely wanted us to have a good experience and see a whale. They had us wait for a bit before going on our flight based on the whales diving patterns to give us the best chance at seeing one and the wait was worth it!
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Thanks for joining us! Yes unfortunately the whales don't always work in with our schedule, so we try to make sure we reshuffle flights the best we can to give everyone the best chance of spotting a whale!
Leigh_H, Nov 2024
We booked this flight because the whale watch boat was cancelled due to the whales being outside of their operating area. The staff at check-in and during the safety briefing were very helpful and professional, as was the pilot. It seems like it was too early in the season for a lot of whales, in fact only one had been spotted in the area that day. So we flew around in circles for most of the flight, trying to find the one whale. Once it became obvious we weren't seeing the whale, the pilot quickly took us to see the dolphins that were by the boats with people swimming.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Hi Leigh, thanks for joining us and I am glad you had a good experience despite no sighting any whales.
Unfortunately working with wildlife can always have its challenges, but I happy to hear you got to see our playful dusky dolphins!
William_N, Oct 2024
Great experience. Small group flight and we did saw a few smaller orcas. Smooth flight. Pilot is experience and really helpful. Thanks!!
Adele_F, Oct 2024
Seeing a young male humpback whale x the flight was an experience in its self . From beginning to end the trip was amazing
Jennifer_F, Sep 2024
I was just excited to go on a small plane over the Kaikōura coast and this was really fun. We got to see a small humpback and plenty of dolphin/seals throughout the trip, thanks Ben!
Barbara_I, Aug 2024
Seeing 300 wild dolphins, seeing the snow-capped mountains, and the sapphire blue ocean. We had a wonderful time and the landing of the plane was so gentle. Thank you for the amazing flight.
Kirk_K, May 2024
Excellent time and got to see a sperm whale what an experience. The pilot knew the water and history of the area and the trip was very enjoyable.
Mia_L, Apr 2024
We saw so many dolphins and a whale. The weather was also great and at the end we even flew a bit over the mountains:)
Sadie_H, Apr 2024
Friendly and very professional and thorough operation. Got me checked in, briefed and on the plane on schedule. Saw humpback whale surrounded by dolphins within a few minutes. Lots of opportunity to view sea life in the water from a completely different point of view and also the beautiful mountains nearby. Highly recommend the extended version as time flies by and don’t wear a jacket as it gets warm inside the plane.
Blake_W, Apr 2024
It was a fun tour. They were upfront and honest about not knowing if they could find a whale the day or our tour. They spotted one and decided to go ahead with the tour. If we were unable to find a whale we would have received a voucher for a free flight. We did find a whale. It was really cool. Had we not found a whale the flight was awesome by itself.
Todd_H, Mar 2024
Great experience, these guys are top notch. They have these whales timed just right when they come up and plan their trip accordingly.
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