Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure from Christchurch to Kaikōura, New Zealand's marine wildlife capital. Travel along a stunning coastal route to witness giant sperm whales, humpbacks, playful dolphins, and diverse seabirds in their natural Pacific habitat.
Journey through Canterbury with your passionate Kiwi guide, pausing at Cheviot and the dramatic Hundalee Hills to spot fur seals basking on coastal rocks. Arrive in Kaikōura - picturesque town nestled between snowcapped mountains and turquoise ocean - for an authentic fish and chips lunch.
Step aboard your whale watching vessel with expert naturalist guides. The Kaikōura Canyon, a deep underwater trench, creates nutrient-rich waters that attract remarkable marine diversity year-round. Search for resident sperm whales, migrating humpbacks, orcas, and five dolphin species using advanced hydrophone technology to track their underwater calls.
On your return journey, enjoy an optional wine tasting at a family-owned Waipara vineyard (note, this is strictly time permitting and not guaranteed).
Travel sustainably on this 100% carbon-neutral tour in a premium Mercedes Sprinter equipped with WiFi and USB charging. With just 16 guests maximum, experience personalized service throughout this comprehensive Kaikōura whale watching adventure.
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From Christchurch: Kaikōura Day Tour with Whale Watching
4.7/5
Good(84 reviews)
From
MYR 0.00
Sold out
Highlights
Enjoy fresh kiwi fish & chips lunch
Experience an optional Waipara wine tasting (not guaranteed, if time permits)
Search for sperm whales, humpbacks, orcas & dolphins on 2-hour cruise
Itinerary
Product details
Experience New Zealand's premier whale watching on this small-group tour. Spot giant sperm whales, humpbacks, and orcas during a 2-hour cruise. See fur seals, and enjoy classic Kiwi fish and chips.
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What's included
Bottled water and authentic Kiwi snacks provided
Carbon-neutral tour—100% offset emissions through certified NZ forestry projects
Expert local Kiwi guide with live commentary throughout the day
Fish and chips lunch included (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options with advance notice)
Hotel pickup and drop-off from 15 central Christchurch locations
Modern Mercedes Sprinter with air conditioning, WiFi, and USB charging
Small-group tour with maximum 16 guests for personalized attention
Whale Watch Kaikoura cruise (approx. 2 hours on water) with expert naturalist guides
Wine tasting at Waipara family vineyard (strictly time permitting, approx. 60% of tours; we do not refund if this part of the tour is skipped)
Eligibility
adult: 15–99 years old
child: 4–14 years old
Change & cancellation policies
If a cancellation request is submitted before 7:30 AM, 1 day(s) prior to the date of use, no cancellation fee will be charged.
If a cancellation request is submitted after 7:30 AM 1 day(s) before the date of use, a fee of 100% will be charged.
If a discount is applied, the cancellation fee will be calculated based on the original price before the discount and will not exceed the amount paid.
Partial refund is not available.
Important note
Please notify the activity provider of any dietary requirements prior to travelling
If you are prone to sea sickness, bring some anti-nausea pills with you
Items recommended to bring:
Comfortable clothes
Warm clothing
Good to know:
If you are prone to sea sickness, bring some anti-nausea pills with you
Please notify the activity provider of any dietary requirements prior to travelling
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