Kaikoura Whale Watch Tour from Christchurch - Small Group
Explore More in This Location
About This Tour in Christchurch
Why Visit Christchurch?
Christchurch, New Zealand offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Christchurch provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Christchurch
The easiest way to reach Christchurch is by flying into Christchurch Airport (CHC). From the airport, you can take airport shuttles, taxis, rideshare services, or public transportation to reach the city center. Rental cars are also popular for exploring the surrounding areas.
What's Included
- Carbon-neutral tour—100% offset emissions
- Bottled water and Kiwi snacks throughout the day
- Fish and chips lunch (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available with advance notice)
- Expert local guide with live commentary
- Transportation in modern Mercedes Sprinter with WiFi & USB charging
- Whale Watch Kaikoura cruise with naturalist guides
- Wine tasting at Waipara family vineyard (time permitting, approx. 60% of tours)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from 15 central Christchurch locations
- Small-group tour (maximum 16 guests)
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We can accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please kindly indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking
- Alcohol will only be served to people 18 years and older
- Travel time included in total duration
Photo Gallery
Customer Reviews
Individual reviews are not available through the API. View all 10 reviews on Viator
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting Point
Your day begins with pickup fromWe only pick up from locations we have been notified of. Please make sure you let us know your pick up location will be the bus interchange. Please be waiting at the Intercity Bus Stop on Lichfield Street. It is recommended that you arrive 5 minutes prior to your pick up time.
End Point
We only pick up from locations we have been notified of. Please make sure you let us know your pick up location will be the bus interchange. Please be waiting at the Intercity Bus Stop on Lichfield Street. It is recommended that you arrive 5 minutes prior to your pick up time.
Pickup Information
Pickup Option: Pickup available or meet at start point
Pickup Time: 60 minutes before departure
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary
Your day begins with pickup from your central Christchurch accommodation
Your day begins with pickup from your central Christchurch accommodation. Meet your friendly Kiwi guide and fellow travellers in our comfortable Mercedes Sprinter. Settle in with complimentary WiFi and USB charging as we head north through the Garden City, with commentary on Christchurch's landmarks, earthquake recovery story, and Canterbury region highlights.
Travel north along State Highway 1, one of...
Travel north along State Highway 1, one of New Zealand's most spectacular coastal routes. Your guide shares insights into the Canterbury region's history, geology, and agricultural heritage as you pass through rolling farmland toward the Pacific coast. Watch the landscape transform as you approach the coastal areas.
Our first stop is in Cheviot, a hidden... 15 minutes
Our first stop is in Cheviot, a hidden gem on one of New Zealand’s largest coastal routes. This is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and refuel. After our brief break, we’ll continue through the stunning Hundalee Hills, where you’ll have a chance to spot surfers and local wildlife, including seals! The scenic drive offers spectacular views all along the way.
Arrive in Kaikōura, a small coastal town caught... 30 minutes
Arrive in Kaikōura, a small coastal town caught between the snowcapped Kaikōura Ranges and the turquoise waters of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa (the Pacific Ocean). The town's name translates to "eat crayfish" in Māori, reflecting its rich marine bounty. Your guide takes you for an authentic Kiwi fish and chips lunch while sharing the town's fascinating history: the significance of the Kaikōura Peninsula as Te Taumanu-o-te-waka-a-Māui (the seat where Māui sat when he fished the North Island up from the ocean depths), the town's recovery from the 2016 magnitude 7.8 earthquake, and its 2023 recognition by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the world's most beautiful small towns. Please note there is no time for additional walks or local shopping at this stop.
Board your purpose-built whale watching vessel with expert... 4 hours
Board your purpose-built whale watching vessel with expert naturalist guides who explain Kaikōura's unique marine ecosystem. The Kaikōura Canyon—a deep underwater trench just 1km offshore—creates nutrient-rich waters that attract an incredible diversity of marine life year-round. While on board, you will have the chance to spot marine wildlife, including Giant Sperm, Blue, Fin, Sei, Humpback, Minke, Pilot, Orca and Southern Right Whales, Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Southern Right Whale Dolphins, Hector’s Dolphins, Dusky Dolphins, Elephant Seals and Leopard Seals. Bird species - such as Albatross, Petrels, and Shearwaters - may also be spotted. There is no doubt that this experience will be pretty special, and is one of our most popular day tours.
When timing permits, we stop at Waipara—a renowned... 30 minutes
When timing permits, we stop at Waipara—a renowned wine region surrounded by lush vineyards and green hills. Here you can taste a selection of locally produced wines from a family-owned vineyard. The Waipara Valley is known for its excellent Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Don't worry if wine's not your thing—beer and non-alcoholic options are also available. Note: this stop is strictly subject to timing on the day - refunds are not provided if we skip this stop.
Arrive back at your original Christchurch pickup location... 30 minutes
Arrive back at your original Christchurch pickup location with unforgettable memories of New Zealand's marine wildlife, stunning coastal scenery, and authentic Kiwi hospitality. Your guide drops you at your hotel entrance.
Explore More
Discover more tours and activities in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
