New Zealand waters contain a variety of whales, and you can watch whales at various places around the country. However, Kaikoura, on the East Coast of the South Island is the main centre for whale watching in New Zealand, and is one of the most accessible places in the world to spot the amazing sperm whale. Off the Kaikoura coastline is a marine environment so rich in nutrients that it attracts some of the most magnificent creatures with which we share our planet. At the top of the list is the Giant Sperm Whale that can grow up to 20 metres and weigh over 50 tons. These whales can be seen all year round making Kaikoura one of the most popular whale watching locations in the world.

Killer whales (Orcas) may be seen from December to March, and humpback whales in June and July. Operators offer three-hour tours daily, weather permitting. Boats are fitted with hydrophones to pick up the sounds of whales under the surface, and spotter planes are also used to help locate the whales. And if you\’re not up to seeing whales from a boat, you can see them from the air, with small planes and helicopters offering flights over the whales.

Contact us to include an encounter with the whales in your itinerary.