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Soar Above Kaikoura – Whale Watching by Helicopter from Christchurch.
Experience the thrill of flight and the wonder of marine wildlife in one unforgettable journey.
Fly from Christchurch to Kaikoura for a breathtaking adventure with stunning views of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps. The scenic flight shortens travel time, making it perfect for day trips.
Arriving at our beachfront helipad, you’ll join Kaikoura Helicopters Whale Watch for a unique aerial perspective of whales, dolphins, and more.
Why choose helicopter whale watching?
• Spot entire whales and pods of dolphins from above
• Enjoy wide viewing angles and greater coverage
• Capture epic images of marine life and the dramatic coastline
• Watch whales dive and dolphins play beneath you
Complete your trip with a seaside lunch or local wine tasting (optional).
This is more than sightseeing — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with nature from above.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Itinerary
-
1
Check in at reception. You will be given a safety briefing and, meet your pilot. Toilets available before departure.
15 minutes • Admission ticket included -
(Pass by)
On take off you will have a great birds eye view as you fly north to Kaikoura. See the pristine coastline with magnificent views of the Canterbury Plains and in the distance the spectacular Southern Alps. After landing take to the air with our Kaikoura Helicopters to view the spectacular whales.
Admission ticket free -
2
View the mighty Sperm Whale as he rests on the surface of the ocean, catching his breath in between deep dives foraging for food. Kaikoura is also a migratory route for a variety of different whale and dolphin species such as the Humpback Whale, Blue Whale, Southern Right Whale and Orca, so we never know from flight to flight when we might spot something different! After viewing magnificent marine life, you will fly high above Kaikoura and land amongst the towering Seaward Kaikoura range. From here you will take in some of the most breath-taking views that New Zealand has to offer. (Snow Landings in winter!) With views to the west of the mountainous Seaward Kaikoura Range, east over the Kaikoura township to the iconic Kaikoura Peninsula stretching out like a whale’s fluke and south down a coastline that stretches for miles. On a clear day you can even see the North Island on the horizon!
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
3
On landing back at Kaikoura after your whale watching flight, there will be time to walk the main street or grab some lunch.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Depart Kaikoura to Christchurch.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All passenger weights MUST be advised at time of booking. You will be weighed at check in
- ,Please dress appropriately for casual attire
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
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Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All passenger weights MUST be advised at time of booking. You will be weighed at check in
- ,Please dress appropriately for casual attire
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- We see whales 97% of the time. Occasionally, despite our very best efforts and flight planning, you may not see a whale. This is rare and unfortunate, but can happen. No refund for this instance
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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