Kaikoura Tours & Activities 2025

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 107.75

Whale Watch is located in the small coastal town of Kaikōura on the East Coast of New Zealand’s South Island a scenic two and a half-hour drive north from Christchurch and two hour drive south from Picton. Kaikōura is a special place of lush pastures and towering, snow covered peaks that fall to the sea. This rare magic continues just offshore where a deep undersea canyon combines with unusual sea currents to attract an extraordinary abundance of marine life, the most famous being the Giant Sperm Whale. Whale Watch is New Zealand's only vessel-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the world’s largest toothed predator the Giant Sperm Whale in their natural environment at all times of the year. Whale Watch scheduled tours operate daily. Our 95% success rate means we guarantee an 80% refund if your tour does not see a whale. Whale Watch tours are extremely popular so we recommend booking early.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 96.05

Kaikōura’s Original Kayak Operator – Est. 1998 Celebrating 27 years on the water! New Zealand’s only sea kayak operator with a marine mammal permit to view NZ Fur Seals, Dolphins, and Whales. Kaikōura’s exclusive kayak operator licensed for Dolphin, Seal, and Whale viewing. NZ’s first “Friend of the Sea” sustainable operator for Dolphin and Whale encounters. Paddle in traditional double sea kayaks with cockpits, spray skirts (for a dry ride), and rudders for easy steering. Led by qualified New Zealand guides with local expertise. 100% guaranteed Fur Seal sightings on every tour! Operating year-round (weather permitting). The Wildlife Kayaking Tour – the Real Deal! Come experience Kaikōura’s incredible marine life up close in a sustainable, unforgettable way.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 81.04

This tour offers 2 different kayaking options for you to choose from: Seal Kayak tour and the Sunset Kayak Tour. It is the first kayak tour in New Zealand to offer hands free kayaking. Now with the largest human muscle group in play, kayaking becomes easier and more efficient than ever. Come get up close and personal with the New Zealand fur seal as they play around and under your hands free pedal kayak. Taking photos/selfies have never been easier now you can capture all your moments without stopping!

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 113.46

A half day of adventure in nature awaits you in Kaikōura, with five zipline flights, totalling 2.2km, above lush rolling farmland, native forest, an interpretive walk through a private 3,000-acre station, and a ride on custom-built 4X4 Unimog. Departing from central Kaikōura township, your journey will begin with a scenic drive, with a breathtaking backdrop of the Seaward Range and views over South Bay, this is an eco adventure not to be missed!

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 149.48

Discover Kaikōura’s world renowned sperm whales & marine life with an unforgettable Whale Watching Flight. From above, you’ll have the ultimate vantage point to admire these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, fully appreciating their incredible size & beauty. Along the way, we may also spot dolphins, humpback whales, blue whales, orca, & other passing cetaceans. Your flight will also treat you to breathtaking views of Kaikōura’s dramatic mountains meeting the vibrant seas- a truly unforgettable sight. For over 30 years, Air Kaikōura’s friendly team has been providing high quality experiences, combining expert knowledge with exceptional service. While we do everything possible to locate whales, they are wild animals, & sightings cannot be guaranteed. Refunds or rescheduling are not available if whales are not sighted, but we’re confident you’ll love the stunning scenery & the unique opportunity to experience Kaikōura’s incredible landscapes & marine environment from above.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 150.08

Experience the thrill of whale watching from the sky with Wings Over Whales! This unique activity offers unparalleled views of the resident sperm whales, the largest toothed whales in the world. From above, you’ll have the chance to see the full scale of these majestic creatures, offering you epic aerial views of both the whales and the stunning surrounding scenery. Flying over the Kaikoura Whale Sanctuary allows you to cover vast areas, increasing your chances of spotting even more marine wildlife, including dusky dolphins. As the longest-operating aerial whale watching company in Kaikoura, we’re committed to both safety and comfort. Our aircraft meet the highest safety standards, giving you peace of mind while you enjoy the ride. At Wings Over Whales, we provide not only an adventure, but a warm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Book your whale watching flight today for a truly unforgettable experience in the skies above Kaikoura!

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 219.12

Experience the natural treasures of New Zealand on a whale-watching cruise from the picturesque town of Kaikoura. Look for the mighty Sperm Whales that live in these waters along with Dusky Dolphins, New Zealand Fur Seals and Seabirds. Admire breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges during your free time in Kaikoura's township and visit a seal colony on land. Wrap up the day with a scenic drive back to Christchurch and a wine tasting at a vineyard in North Canterbury (time permitting). Your experienced guide shares informative commentary throughout the day on this fun and fascinating tour.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 149.48

Spend quality time with one of the world's most exotic animals. You trek with your own llama, who walks on a lead, at your side, while carrying your belongings in saddle bags. Llama are highly intelligent, clever animals = requiring that you get to know them (and work with them) to successfully complete your trek. The subtle 'bond' you form with your llama companion is highly rewarding. You experienced guide will help you get to know your woolly companion. Your guide will also share a range of local Kaikoura history and information, including the extraordinary effects of the 2016 earthquake (the largest ever recorded in New Zealand) You do not ride your llama.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 123.73

Discover Kaikōura’s world renowned sperm whales & marine life with an unforgettable Whale Watching Flight. From above, you’ll have the ultimate vantage point to admire these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, fully appreciating their incredible size & beauty. Along the way, we may also spot dolphins, humpback whales, blue whales, orca, & other passing cetaceans. Your flight will also treat you to breathtaking views of Kaikōura’s dramatic mountains meeting the vibrant seas- a truly unforgettable sight. For over 30 years, Air Kaikōura’s friendly team has been providing high quality experiences, combining expert knowledge with exceptional service. While we do everything possible to locate whales, they are wild animals, & sightings cannot be guaranteed. Refunds or rescheduling are not available if whales are not sighted, but we’re confident you’ll love the stunning scenery & the unique opportunity to experience Kaikōura’s incredible landscapes & marine environment from above.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 96.05

Kaikoura's Original Kayak Operator - Est 1998 Celebrating 27 years of operation! 100% guaranteed to view Fur Seals on all tours. Family Friendly - operating year round. New Zealand's only Sea Kayak operator that holds a marine mammal permit to view Whales. Kaikoura's only Kayak operator that holds a marine mammal permit to view Dolphins, Seals and Whales. New Zealand's 1st Friend of the Sea sustainable operator for Dolphin and Whale viewing. Traditional double sea kayaks with cockpits and spray skirts for a dry ride and rudders for easy steering. Qualified Sea Kayak guides. The Sunset Evening Classic tour has left a lasting impression with people from all over the world!

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 80.44

Enjoy a 1hr Taster Llama Trek - along the Kowhai River banks and riverbed. Surrounded throughout by protected native woodland, and abundant wildlife.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 240.13

Kaikōura’s Original Kayak Operator – Est. 1998 Celebrating 27 years on the water! New Zealand’s only sea kayak operator with a marine mammal permit to view NZ Fur Seals, Dolphins, and Whales. Kaikōura’s exclusive kayak operator licensed for Dolphin, Seal, and Whale viewing. NZ’s first “Friend of the Sea” sustainable operator for Dolphin and Whale encounters. Paddle in traditional double sea kayaks with cockpits, spray skirts (for a dry ride), and rudders for easy steering. Led by qualified sea kayak guides with local expertise. 100% guaranteed Fur Seal sightings on every tour! Family-friendly adventures, operating year-round. The Wildlife Kayaking Tour – the Real Deal! Come experience Kaikōura’s incredible marine life up close in a sustainable, unforgettable way.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 207.11

Helicopters depart from our centrally located beach front helipads, lifting off on your scenic helicopter tour to view the Kaikoura Coast. View Sperm Whales from head to tail, offering you a unique and uninterrupted vantage point of these magnificent marine mammals.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 495.26

Experience the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter tour and witness New Zealand’s incredible marine life from above. Fly over the renowned Kaikōura Canyon to spot Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, or even Blue whales, depending on the season. This extended scenic flight gives you more time to enjoy whale sightings and coastal views. Spot Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals as you cruise along the shoreline. Land at a remote site only accessible by South Pacific Helicopters, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. This unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 246.13

Discover magnificent marine wildlife out on the South Pacific Ocean during this 12-hour Kaikoura dolphin swim from Christchurch. Travel through the rolling hills of North Canterbury to the rugged coastline of Kaikoura — the perfect place to view New Zealand’s dolphins, seals and birdlife in the wild. With warm wetsuit on, hop aboard your boat and learn from your guide the tricks used to encourage interaction with the graceful and curious dolphins. Dive to the depths below, snorkel over the waves and savor the joy of sharing the dolphins’ natural habitat.

Kaikoura , South Island

From $ 288.15

Within minutes of taking off from our beach from helipads, you will be in the spectacular environment that plays host to one of the worlds largest marine mammals, the magnificent Sperm Whale. This flight allows you extra time in the whale area to view these majestic creatures of the deep. This also gives you the possibility of viewing dolphins for just a little extra. - A better option for when the whales are feeding further off shore or are holding their breath for longer than expected. - More chance to view any transient baleen whales - these whales typically spend short surface intervals (one to 4 breaths) followed by long periods under water (often 2-5 minutes), the longer flight time gives us longer wait for them. - Depending on the location of the Sperm whales, gives us more time to search for dolphin and /or fly along the Kaikoura southern coastline on our way back to land.