Kaikoura Helicopters Classic Whale Watch

Overview

Available languages

English

30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Kaikoura Helicopter Whale Watching – The Ultimate Shore Excursion

Take your Kaikoura visit to new heights with our unforgettable helicopter whale watching experience. Soar over the stunning Kaikoura coastline as you search for majestic sperm whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and fur seals. From above, enjoy the breathtaking scale of these incredible marine giants in their natural habitat—an experience that’s truly once-in-a-lifetime.

Perfectly timed for cruise ship visitors, this adventure makes an exceptional Kaikoura shore excursion to fit your ship’s schedule. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a premium way to explore Kaikoura, our helicopter tours offer unmatched aerial views and a thrilling perspective of New Zealand’s wildlife and landscapes.

Dramatic aerial views of whales

Scenic and mountain landscapes unique to Kaikoura

Ideal for cruise ship shore excursions with convenient timing

Experienced pilots and a professional, friendly crew

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A headset is provided with a microphone for communicating with your pilot

We recommend wearing covered shoes and bringing a warm jacket

We recommend bringing your camera and sunglasses

All passengers will be weighed before departure

Your pilot in command will load helicopter based on weight and balance

All flights are subject to weather conditions and minimum numbers. Please see our website for full terms and conditions

If the weather does not allow you to fly, we will be happy to rebook you for a later time if your travel schedule allows. Alternatively your voucher can be used at one of our other helicopter bases in Wellington or Christchurch

Cancellation Policy

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

What To Expect

Kaikoura

Kaikoura Helicopters Classic Whale Watch is a whale watching adventure in Kaikōura from above. Take off from our beachfront helipad in Kaikōura and soar over the region’s world-famous deep-sea canyon, home to the magnificent Sperm Whale. From the comfort of your helicopter, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of these incredible marine mammals alongside the stunning Kaikōura coastline, Seaward Kaikōura mountain range, and the iconic Kaikōura Peninsula. This unique aerial perspective gives you the best chance to see whales in their natural habitat, the possibility of spotting migrating Humpback Whales (May–November), playful Hector’s Dolphins, and New Zealand Fur Seals basking on the rocks. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, world-class whale watching, and unforgettable memories—all in one incredible Kaikōura Helicopters experience. We operate under the strict guidelines of our whale watching concession from the Department of Conservation, whilst also abiding to the Marine Mammals Protection Act

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

An unforgettable bucket-list New Zealand experience.

Headset with microphone to clearly hear your commentary and ask questions on your journey

Explore the unique and rugged Kaikoura Coastline

View from above Kaikoura’s deep-sea canyon while searching for a Giant Sperm Whale

Scenic helicopter excursion to view whales and wildlife

Unique and uninterrupted views of magnificent marine mammals from above in your luxury helicopter

Live commentary from our pilots who are flying encyclopedias on the local area.

Depart from Kaikōura’s convenient beachfront helipad in the township.

Options