Kaikōura Whale Watching and Scenic Landing - 1hr Premier Tour

Recommended by 100% of travelers

Badge of Excellence

Kaikoura, New Zealand

1 hour (approx.)
Flight time: 1 hour
Pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

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Overview

The mix of warm and cold currents found underwater in Kaikōura Canyon supports a vast diversity of marine life, making it one of New Zealand’s most unique locations. This small-group helicopter journey above the canyon, including a landing in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, allows the spotting of humpback, southern right, blue, and sperm whales, as well as the chance to see dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals—all from a vantage point most travelers miss.

See the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges from above
Enjoy a complimentary shuttle from your accommodation, or Kaikōuraa train or bus station
The trip includes a landing in the mountain peaks—the perfect place to snap scenic photos
The chance to spot a variety of marine life, including native whales, dolphins, and seals

What's Included

Lifejackets and Headsets

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Pickup details

We can arrange a pick up and drop off service (free of charge) from anywhere in Kaikoura. Please either mention in the booking notes or you can email or call us directly to arrange this.

Meeting point

617 State Highway 1, Peketā 7374, New Zealand
We are located in the Log Cabin terminal at the northern end of the airport car park. There is free parking available and plenty of space camper vans. The airport is a short 8 minute drive from Kaikōura township.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Operating hours
.11:00 am

Itinerary

Kaikoura

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

Total weight per passenger: 276 lbs
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
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

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Reviews

5.0

based on 27 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

We perform checks on reviews

Awesome tour!

Jeanette_J, Mar 2024

Daniel, his wife and entire crew provided a welcoming and seamless experience!! The communications were helpful , we felt entirely safe and totally feel as if we got our moneys worth!

Response from Host, Sep 2024

Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a lovely review. We are so pleased to hear you enjoyed your entire experience with South Pacific Helicopters and look forward to having you onboard again one day.