Christchurch – Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour

Following a hotel pickup in Christchurch, settle in for a comfortable 2.5-hour scenic drive by coach. You’ll drive through the North Canterbury region of the South Island to Kaikoura, New Zealand’s prime whale-watching locale. Climb aboard your boat and meet expert guides who explain the town’s whaling history and point out the area’s abundant marine life throughout your Kaikoura whale-watching cruise.

The Hikurangi Trench, located offshore, creates an upwelling that draws the showstopper attraction—mighty sperm whales, who live in Kaikoura’s waters year-round—as well as migrating blue whales, pilot whales, humpback whales, and southern right whales, depending on the season. Keep an eye out for orcas as well as Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins. You’ll see plenty of sea birds, too. Sate your appetite with lunch at a local restaurant or buy your own meal. Relax with views of the imposing snow-capped peaks of the Kaikoura Range.

Then re-board the coach to witness New Zealand fur seals at a nearby colony. Stop for wine tasting (time permitting) at a North Canterbury vineyard en route to Christchurch, where your tour ends in the evening when your guide returns you to your hotel.

Included