How to Plan Your Whale-Watching Flight Tour in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, a picturesque coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island, is a popular destination for marine mammal enthusiasts. One of the best ways to experience the incredible animals that call these waters home is by taking a whale-watching flight. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan your own unforgettable whale-watching tour in Kaikoura.

Step 1: Choose Your Tour

The first thing you’ll need to do is decide on the tour you want to take. We recommend the Whale Watching Flight offered by GetYourGuide. This tour covers a large area of the ocean, maximizing your chances of spotting whales, and provides spectacular aerial views of both sperm whales and dusky dolphins. The flight also comes equipped with listening headsets for commentary, making it both an informative and thrilling experience.

Step 2: Book Your Tour

Once you’ve selected your tour, it’s time to book. You can do so easily by visiting the GetYourGuide website and following the simple steps. The tour lasts 40 minutes and includes a window seat for every passenger, guaranteeing you stunning unimpeded views of the whales and surrounding scenery. The tour company also offers hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Tour

Before your tour, there are a few things you’ll need to do to ensure you’re fully prepared. Firstly, make sure you’re dressed appropriately for the weather conditions. Kaikoura can be windy, so we recommend a warm jacket and comfortable shoes. You’ll also want to bring your camera or phone to capture the incredible sights you’ll see during the flight.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Tour

Once you’re ready, it’s time to enjoy your tour. Once aboard the flight, settle into your window seat and take in the stunning views of the New Zealand alpine and coastal scenery. As you fly over the ocean’s vast expanse, keep your eyes peeled for playful humpback whales, imposing orcas, and the mighty blue whales. You’ll also get to appreciate the huge size of the sperm whales, which are frequent visitors to the waters off Kaikoura.

Step 5: Return to Shore

After your tour, you’ll return to shore feeling exhilarated and likely with the best photos of your trip. Your tour provides hotel drop-off service, so you can sit back, relax, and reflect on the incredible experience you just had.

Tips for Your Whale-Watching Flight Tour

– The tour is not suitable for people over 264 lbs (120 kg). – Listening headsets will be provided to keep you informed throughout the tour. – The window seat is guaranteed, giving you the best views of the whales and other marine life. – Dress appropriately for the weather, as it can be windy. – Bring your camera or phone to capture the incredible sights you’ll see. – Be on the lookout for playful humpback whales, imposing orcas, and the mighty blue whales.

Book Your Tour Now

A whale-watching flight tour in Kaikoura is a bucket-list experience that you won’t want to miss. By following the steps in this guide and booking the Whale Watching Flight tour through GetYourGuide, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the incredible beauty of these majestic marine creatures. Book your tour here and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kaikoura

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, Kaikoura is a must-see destination. Located on the east coast of the South Island, Kaikoura is home to stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and unforgettable experiences. To help you plan your visit, we’ve put together this comprehensive FAQ about Kaikoura.

1. Where is Kaikoura?

Kaikoura is a small coastal town located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is about 180 km north of Christchurch and 130 km south of Blenheim.

2. Why is Kaikoura so famous?

Kaikoura is famous for the abundance of marine life that can be seen just off its coast. Whale watching tours are among the most popular activities in Kaikoura, as well as swimming with dolphins, fur seals, and even the occasional orca.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Kaikoura?

The best time to visit Kaikoura really depends on what you want to do while you’re there. Whale watching season runs from June to August, but if you want to swim with dolphins or seals, summer (December-February) is the best time to go.

4. How do I get to Kaikoura?

Kaikoura can be reached by car or bus from both Christchurch and Blenheim. If you’re flying into New Zealand, the closest airport is in Christchurch (about a 2-hour drive away).

5. What are some things to do in Kaikoura besides whale watching?

In addition to whale watching, there are several other activities to do in Kaikoura. You can swim with dolphins or seals, go on a fishing charter, hike or bike in the nearby mountains, or simply relax on one of the town’s many beaches. Additionally, Kaikoura is home to several great restaurants, cafes, and shops.

6. Is it safe to swim with dolphins and seals in Kaikoura?

Yes, it is safe to swim with dolphins and seals in Kaikoura. All tours are conducted by experienced and licensed operators who follow strict safety regulations.

7. What kind of whales can be seen in Kaikoura?

Several species of whales can be seen off the coast of Kaikoura, including sperm whales, humpback whales, southern right whales, and sometimes even orcas.

8. Can I see penguins in Kaikoura?

Yes, there are several places around Kaikoura where you can see penguins. The most common type is the little penguin, which can be found at Ohau Point.

9. Is there any accommodation in Kaikoura?

Yes, Kaikoura has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including hotels, motels, backpacker hostels, and camping grounds.

10. What should I bring to Kaikoura?

If you’re planning to do any outdoor activities, be sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also recommended, as the New Zealand sun can be very strong. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.

Book Your Tour Now

Kaikoura is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand. With its stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and unforgettable experiences, it’s no wonder that Kaikoura has become so famous. Whether you’re looking to whale watch, swim with dolphins, or simply relax on a beautiful beach, Kaikoura has something for everyone.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kaikoura

If you are planning a trip to Kaikoura, New Zealand, you are in for a real treat! This small coastal town located on the eastern coast of the South Island has become a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its abundance of marine wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. In this post, we will guide you on how to spend your time in Kaikoura and make the most out of your visit.

1. Whale Watching Tour

One of the most popular things to do in Kaikoura is taking a whale watching tour. Kaikoura is famous for its year-round whale sightings and whales can be seen from the air, sea, and land. You can book a whale watching tour that takes you out to sea to see these magnificent creatures up close. You will have the opportunity to see sperm whales, humpback whales, killer whales and many other species. Make sure to wear warm clothes and take a camera as you won’t want to miss capturing the moment.

2. Swim with the Dolphins

Another exhilarating experience that you can have in Kaikoura is swimming with the dolphins. The dusky and Hector dolphins that can be found in Kaikoura are very friendly and playful, and they love to interact with humans. You can book a swimming with dolphins tour which will give you the opportunity to swim alongside these magnificent creatures. The tour operators will provide you with a wetsuit and snorkel, and the dolphins will often swim right up to you.

3. Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

For those who enjoy walking, the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a must-visit. This 11km walk will take you around the Kaikoura Peninsula and offers stunning views of the coastline and marine life. Along the way, you will see fur seals basking in the sun on the rocks and may even spot some dolphins or whales in the distance. The walk is moderate to easy and is suitable for all ages.

4. Seafest Kaikoura

If you are visiting Kaikoura in October, then you are in for a treat as you can attend the annual Seafest Kaikoura. This festival celebrates Kaikoura’s coastal culture, marine heritage, and cuisine. You will get to enjoy seafood and other local delicacies, listen to live music and participate in various activities. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and have fun with the locals.

5. Kaikoura Museum

If you are interested in learning about the history and culture of Kaikoura, then you must visit the Kaikoura Museum. The museum has a great collection of exhibits and displays that illustrate the history and culture of the region. The museum is open 7 days a week, and admission is free.

6. Ohau Point Seal Colony

One of the best places to see seals in Kaikoura is at the Ohau Point Seal Colony. This is a breeding colony for New Zealand fur seals, and you can see the seals playing, swimming, and basking in the sun. You can get up close to the seals and watch them in their natural habitat. It’s a great spot for taking photos and admiring the beautiful rocky coastline.

7. Kaikoura Cheese

Kaikoura is also known for its artisan cheese. You can visit the Kaikoura Cheese shop and taste a variety of cheeses that are made using traditional methods. The cheese is made from 100% New Zealand cow’s milk and is aged to perfection. The shop also offers a range of gourmet food products, including pickles, chutneys, and artisan bread.

Book Your Tour Now

Kaikoura is a beautiful coastal town with so much to offer visitors. Whether you want to see marine wildlife, hike in scenic landscapes, taste artisan food products or learn about the local culture, Kaikoura has something for everyone. By following this guide, you’ll get a chance to experience the best that Kaikoura has to offer. We hope you have a wonderful trip!