Kaikōura Helicopters - Classic Whale Watch

If you cannot see the departure time you would prefer, please email info@kaikourahelicopters.com or call us on +64 3 319 6609 for more availability.

Flying above Kaikōura's unique deep-sea canyon you will be searching for the magnificent Sperm Whale, with breath taking views of the rugged Kaikoura coastline.

Lift off from our beachfront helipad and within minutes you will be in the spectacular environment that plays host to one of the world’s largest marine mammals, the awe-inspiring Sperm Whale!

From the comfort of your helicopter, you will enjoy the ultimate whale watching experience with panoramic views of the coastline, the Seaward Kaikōura mountain range and the iconic Kaikōura Peninsula.

Possibility of seeing baleen whales migrating through - humpbacks on their way back and forth from their feeding grounds down near Antarctica, to their birthing and breeding grounds in Tonga & Niue from May through to November.

On our return journey to the helipad, keep an eye out for the NZ Fur Seals basking along the rocks and small Hectors Dolphins swimming along the coastline. 

Approx 30 minute flight. Minimum adult passenger numbers apply for flight to depart.

Kaikōura Helicopters supports Project Jonah, a registered charity existing for one simple reason – to help marine mammals in desperate need. Their vision is to create a world where these animals are respected and protected. Project Jonah has pioneered whale rescue techniques, and has shared this technology and expertise with the rest of the world. Kaikoura Helicopters actively support Project Jonah with funding and welcome our guests to have the option to donate as well when paying for their helicopter trip. Thank you. https://www.projectjonah.org.nz/

Aircraft used is at the discretion of  Kaikōura Helicopters

Minimum per person fares are required for flights to depart or why not private choose to private charter the helicopter to yourselves

Infants aged 0 to 2 years old  fly free of charge on a paying adults lap.

Kaikōura Helicopters is a division of GCH Aviation - A New Zealand family owned and operated premier aviation operators serving all
aspects of luxury tourism transfers, private jet charters, air ambulance and helicopter
rescue services. New Zealand's only aviation company accepted as a Virtuoso preferred supplier. 

Prices increase yearly on the 1st September until the 31st August

Te reo Māori words 

Waka Topatopa - Helicopter

Tohorā - Whale

Rere - To Fly

Moana - Sea

Whenua - Land

Hīra - Seal

Ahoaho - Hectors Dolphin

Tiro - View

Raenga Kūiti - Peninsula

Aotearoa - New Zealand