Kaikoura Whales, Dolphins, Seals and Penguins

Kaikoura Whale Watching

Whale watching in Kaikoura is famous world wide and not to be missed. Humpback, beaked, blue, minke, sei, fin, pilot and killer whales are often sighted in Kaikoura at different times of the year, but almost always there are the huge resident sperm whales. These sperm whales enjoy the rich diet of the Kaikoura waters while building up their strength to move to the mating grounds of the warm north. Whales regularly dive to depths of one kilometer and sperm whales have been known to dive to 3 kilometres. They can hold their breath for up to two hours. Often other marine life is seen such as dolphins and seals. Whale Watch Kaikoura have been operating whale watch tours for many years while you are also able to fly to gain a birdseye view.

Kaikoura Swimming with Dolphins

Another popular activity in Kaikoura is a swim with dolphins. This is available year round and another ‘must do’ activity. Kitted out in a wetsuit, you will be taken by boat to get close to the dolphins. A swim with the dolphins can get you as close as an arms length away and the dolphins may be in a playful. While you aren’t guaranteed to see or swim with the dolphins, most dolphin tours offer some sort of refund in the unlikely event that this should occur.