Travel through the rolling hill country of North Canterbury, enjoying the beauty of its rural pastoral scenes, to Kaikoura where the mountains meet the sea.
Only three hours from Christchurch, the rugged coastline around Kaikoura offers magnificent scenery and panoramic views, and is a delight for all those who wish to get close to nature, go whale watching, and swim with dolphins.
Kaikoura is world renowned for the variety of birds and marine mammals which can be seen, not least of all the giant sperm whales and the acrobatic Dusky Dolphins.
Take the Dolphin Encounter, where you will be fully equipped with wet suit, mask, snorkel and flippers in order to swim in the sea with the Dusky Dolphins. Dive into the oceans and swim next to these amazing mammals in a marine experience unmatched by any other. There is also the opportunity to visit a seal colony where fur seals may be viewed at close quarters.
Kaikoura has one of the largest number of different types of seabirds within a small area than anywhere along the New Zealand coastlines. Within close proximity of the beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula, see a considerable array of albatross, petrels, shearwaters, terns, shags and gulls. Experience the sensation of getting close to the mighty albatross, one of the world's largest flight birds.
You may stop on the returning journey at a North Canterbury vineyard where a wine tasting has been arranged for your pleasure.
Those in need of even more of a thrill can take a 4 wheel quad bike through spectacular hill country, native bush, river beds and streams. You're in for a full day of action-packed adventure!
Returning to Christchurch by train on the TranzCoastal is one of the world's most scenic train journeys. See wildlife and stunning rugged coastline in the comfort of your train carriage.
Tours & Tickets
Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour from Christchurch
Spend the day getting close to nature on a whale-watching day trip to Kaikoura, renowned for its variety of marine mammals. You'll enjoy a scenic drive ... Read more
Location:
Christchurch, New Zealand
Duration: 11 hrs
5-Day New Zealand North and South Island Highlights Trip
Journey through the North Island of New Zealand and explore Waitomo, Rotorua and Lake Taupo, and discover the natural beauty of Kaikoura and Christchurch on ... Read more
Location:
Auckland or Christchurch, New Zealand
Duration: 5 days (approx.)
Kaikoura Swim with Dolphins Tour from Christchurch
Spend the day getting close to Dolphins. Travel by coach through the rolling hill country of North Canterbury, enjoying the beauty of its rural pastoral ... Read more
Location:
Christchurch, New Zealand
Duration: 12 hrs
Kaikoura Whale Watch Tour from Christchurch including TranzCoastal Rail Journey
Spend the day getting close to nature on this Kaikoura Whale Watching tour from Christchurch. Travel by road through the rolling hill country of North ... Read more
Location:
Christchurch, New Zealand
Duration: 10.5 hours
