Kaikōura Whale Watching - Whales and Cray Tails

5.0 (2 reviews) 2 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

2 reviews

5.0

Sperm Whale — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Enjoy your lunch with a view — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

PRIVATE TOUR – Price is for up to 5 passengers, not per person.

This exclusive helicopter experience is the only one of its kind in New Zealand, developed in collaboration with a local Marine Mammal Biologist from the Kaikōura Marine Mammal Foundation. You'll journey over the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where whales reside close to the Kaikōura coast. Throughout the flight, your onboard marine biologist will share expert insights into the region’s marine life and ecosystem, offering a deeply educational and engaging experience.

Next, we land to pick up a fresh crayfish lunch from the famous Karaka Lobster Café, which you'll enjoy at a remote mountain location with panoramic views of the ocean and the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges.

To conclude the tour, your pilot will guide you over dramatic landscapes shaped by the 2016 Kaikōura Earthquake, highlighting fault lines, diverted rivers, and massive landslides—bringing both natural beauty and geological history to life.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Helicopter Tours Adventure Tours Involves Animals Zombie Zombie Slice Short term availability

At a glance

Duration: 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–5
Guide: English
Operated by: South Pacific Helicopters NZ

Ages: Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Bottled Water on request
Included: Crayfish lunch included
Included: Life jackets and head sets
Included: Marine Biologist - Dr Krista Van Der Linde

Itinerary

Kaikoura

Passing by

Take your whale watching experience to new heights on this unforgettable Kaikōura helicopter tour. Soar above the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and the deep Kaikōura Canyon, guided by a knowledgeable marine biologist who provides fascinating insights into the region’s rich marine ecosystem. Spot majestic whales—including Sperm, Humpback, Orca, and even Blue whales—as well as Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals from the air.

After your wildlife encounter, land at a stunning alpine location in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges for a gourmet crayfish lunch (a local delicacy), served with breathtaking mountain and ocean views. This premium experience blends aerial adventure, marine education, and fine local cuisine into one unforgettable New Zealand eco-tour.

Perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and photographers, this is Kaikōura’s most exclusive and immersive helicopter experience.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

End point

Pickup points

Sierra Beachfront Motel
Dusky Lodge & Backpackers
Willowbank Motel
Clearwater Motel
Kaikoura Motor Inn
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
Panorama Motel
Admiral Court Motel
Kaikoura Airport
Alpine View Motel
Sudima Kaikoura
Sails Motel

and 11 more pickup points

We can arrange a pick up and drop off service (free of charge) from anywhere in Kaikoura. Please either mention in the booking notes or you can call or email us directly to arrange this.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.