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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
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Kaikoura Helicopters is situated under the rail bridge on the main street of Kaikoura. Look for the whales on the windows and the smiling staff on the reception.
Itinerary
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1Kaikoura
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 ticket free
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
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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
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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