The home of whale watching in New Zealand
Discover Kaikoura, a coastal gem where intimate wildlife encounters are part of everyday life.
Kaikōura is where mountains meet the sea, creating one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable coastal settings. Famed for its year-round whale watching and abundant marine life, it’s a destination where encounters with dolphins, seals, and seabirds are part of everyday life. With its dramatic backdrop and diverse ways to explore by land, sea, or air, Kaikōura offers a rare combination of natural spectacle and close-up wildlife experiences.
Explore Kaikōura
Nestled on New Zealand’s South Island east coast, Kaikōura is world-renowned for its marine wildlife and dramatic coastal landscapes. The area is a prime destination for whale watching, with sperm whales present year-round and migratory humpback, orca, and pilot whales appearing seasonally.
Tours are highly flexible, offering options by boat, plane, or helicopter, as well as either private or shared experiences, allowing visitors to choose how they want to connect with the marine life while taking in the striking backdrop of mountains meeting the Pacific Ocean.
Where to stay in Kaikōura
For a unique stay in Kaikōura, Hapuku Lodge offers a collection of luxurious treehouses perched between the mountains and the sea. This idyllic retreat combines modern comforts with an intimate experience, creating a relaxing base for exploring the surrounding wildlife, coastline, and hiking trails.
Best time to visit Kaikōura
Whale watching in Kaikōura is possible all year, but the ideal period is December through March, when calmer seas and clearer skies make marine encounters more predictable and enjoyable. Summer months also provide the best conditions for additional coastal activities such as kayaking, seal colony visits, and scenic walks along the Kaikōura Peninsula.
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Alistair
New Zealand Expert