Kaikoura Whale Watching - 45 Minute Ocean Safari
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Kaikoura
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kaikoura, New Zealand on this unforgettable 45-minute whale watching helicopter tour. Soar high above the Pacific Ocean to witness the incredible sight of Sperm whales from head to tail — a perspective only possible from the air. Your journey also includes a spectacular landing on remote coastal hilltops, offering stunning panoramic views of the Kaikoura Ranges, rolling hills, and turquoise waters below. This exclusive experience combines aerial wildlife viewing, coastal sightseeing, and a unique off-the-beaten-path landing for the ultimate adventure. Keep an eye out for dusky dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and other marine life. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a truly unique and premium New Zealand experience.
What‘s Included
Life jackets and headsets
Bottled water
Pickup points
Dusky Lodge & Backpackers
67 Beach Road, Kaikoura New Zealand
Kaikoura Airport
Kaikoura New Zealand
The White Morph Heritage Collection
92-94 Esplanade, post code: 7300 Kaikoura New Zealand
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
State Highway 1, Station Road Hapuku New Zealand
Sudima Kaikoura
114 Esplanade, Kaikoura New Zealand
Options
Kaikoura Whale Watching - 45 Minute Ocean Safari
Pickup included
Reviews
34 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Dramatic whale watching
Inspire27798170696,,Dec 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Super nice flight with good narration and explanations of the geographical aspects and the the sea mammals. We found a blue whale and got to see it for quite some time with good opportunity for photos and movies.
Ladies who lunch went whale watching.
susanNNormandyFrance,,Dec 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A truly memorable experience. Not only did we see a whale, dolphins and seals, our pilot Daniel provided a running commentary on the Bay and the animals/ wild life to be found here. We are ladies of a certain age throughly recommend this. Money well spent thank you.
Wow! Wow! Wow! What a Wonderful Experience!!
scubaw,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wow! Wow! Wow! This tour is a must while in Kaikōura! We did a whale helicopter safari, and it certainly did not disappoint! Daniel was simply amazing and we had the most lovely experience. We saw a sperm whale and a dusky dolphin pod. We also had a coastal landing, which was exquisite. We felt so taken care of and Daniel ensured we had a memorable experience. Thank you for the most amazing experience.
Highlight of the trip!
645melissaj,,Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We absolutely loved our whale watching helicopter tour in Kaikoura. We saw a sperm whale, pilot whales and an enormous pod of dusky dolphins. Our pilot was a great tour guide and made us feel very safe and taken care of. The views absolutely cannot be beaten. Would do it again for sure.
Must Do when visiting Kaikoura
H2451DGjanar,,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The helicopter whale watching tour was an unforgettable experience! Our pilot was incredibly friendly and entertaining, and he shared lots of interesting information throughout the flight. I really appreciated how much effort he put into making sure every passenger had the same great views, very thoughtful and professional. Seeing whales and dolphins from above was absolutely magical, something you don’t forget anytime soon. I can 100% recommend this tour! A truly unique and amazing experience!
Bird’s eye view!
65francesj,,Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was my very first helicopter ride and I had a fabulous time. My husband and I flew with Dan and got to see a sperm whale in open water. So exciting. We also landed on a plateau for a scenic view of Kaikōura, what a treat. Thanks South Pacific Helicopters!
Amazing
kimchic2025,,Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Awesome and amazing, lucky when we were saw the whale on time explore, the pilot’s so friendly and professional, 🍀🍀🍀
A once in a lifetime opportunity
BeverleyW575,,Sep 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A great experience with an interesting pilot. His conversation made the trip enjoyable for us both. The flight was great, the helicopter was great, the views were great.
#mustdo
lucygF9282BU,,Aug 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Most incredible experience! Amazing to see a humpback whale breaching and Jo was great explaining everything and making sure everyone in the plane got a great view and pics! Thank you!
The one thing you need to do in Kaikoura!
Becs99,,Aug 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Oh my gosh that was the most amazing trip! Jo our pilot saw the whales as soon as we got into the air and we got to hang out with them for the duration of the flight!! Absolutely unreal - such beautiful creatures!!
From NZ$825.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by South Pacific Helicopters NZ