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Offered languages
- English
Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023.
You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a whale watching experience (approx 2 hours), this journey is one you will never forget.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted. Please make sure you have let us know your pickup location. For hotel pickups please be waiting at or Infront of reception. Please see pick up times below 07:55 Hotel Elms 08:03 Scenic Hotel Cotswold 8:08 Sudima City 08:10 Crowne Plaza 08:12 Novotel City 08:14 Distinction 08:17 Christchurch City Hotel 08:20 Christchurch Bus Interchange (Intercity stop) 08:24 Breakfree 08:27 Rydges Latimer 08:30 Urbanz 08:33 Fino 08:35 The George 08:40 Hotel Give 08:55 Commodore Christchurch Airport 09:00 Sudima Christchurch Airport
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.
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head north towards Kaikōura, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights and facts about the wider Canterbury region.
Admission ticket free -
1
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.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
The highlight of the tour! Upon arriving in Kaikōura, our guide will take you for a classic Kiwi fish and chip lunch, before we drop you at your pre-booked Whale Watch Tour. 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. *Please note that this product is purely for those interested in Whale Watching. There will be no time for additional walks or local shopping unfortunately.
4 hours • Admission ticket free -
3
If Time Allows: Waipara - If time permits, we’ll 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. Don’t worry if wine’s not your thing beer and non-alcoholic options are available as an alternative! (THIS STOP IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILTY NO REFUND PROVIDED)
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
After a fantastic day in Kaikōura, we’ll head back to the Garden City. Sit back and where you can relax after a day full of and reflect on a day full of stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!
1 minute • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- 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
Tags
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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