Kaikoura Day Trip From Christchurch with Whale Watch (Small Group & Carbon Neutral)

Although often overlooked, Kaikoura's small coastal town feel is an absolute "must-see" in New Zealand. With breathtaking views of turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains, it offers the perfect blend of serenity and adventure. Join our friendly and knowledgeable guides on a journey from the Garden City to the place where the mountains meet the sea, making it the ultimate destination to encounter marine life, take scenic coastal walks, and indulge in amazing local food.

This day tour to Kaikoura invites you to sit back, relax, and soak in all the natural beauty the town has to offer. A surfer's paradise and home to an abundance of wildlife - which you'll soon start to spot as we near the town - the pairing of the vibrant blue Pacific Ocean against the towering Kaikoura ranges offers stunning photo opportunities and the chance to experience a region like no other. And hey, we encourage you to add on a few extra activities to make the most of your time!

You’ll travel comfortably in our modern Mercedes Sprinter (or similar vehicle) packed with extras to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our passionate and fun guides will bring the trip to life, ensuring that you have a day filled with adventure and memories!

During your time in Kaikoura, the undeniable highlight is the unforgettable whale watching experience: 

"Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand’s only vessel-based whale watching company offering up-close encounters with the world’s largest toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale, in their natural environment year-round. With a 95% success rate, we guarantee an 80% refund if your tour doesn’t spot a whale. On average, you'll see 1-2 whales per tour, with sightings of other incredible species like Blue, Fin, Humpback, and Minke whales, as well as dolphins, orcas, and seals."

Highlights:

• Picture-perfect scenery
• Wildlife sightings
• Whale watching
• Wine tasting (time permitting)

Itinerary:

Christchurch - We begin our adventure by leaving the Garden City and heading north towards Kaikoura. Along the way, your driver will share interesting facts and highlights about the city of Christchurch, and wider Canterbury region.

Cheviot (15 min) - 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.

Kaikoura - Once we arrive in Kaikoura, you’ll enjoy lunch before embarking on the highly anticipated whale-watching tour. Aboard the catamaran, you’ll have the chance to spot giant sperm whales, and with a little luck, maybe even orcas! Afterwards, our driver will pick you up from the reception as we begin our journey back towards Christchurch.

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 is available as an alternative!

Christchurch - After a fantastic, action-packed day in Kaikoura, we’ll head back to Christchurch, where you can relax and reflect on a day full of stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and memories that will have your camera roll bursting with photos!

Please note: This tour is focused on whale watching, so there will be no opportunities for local walks or shopping. Additional stops for bathroom breaks will be included.

IMPORTANT: The whale watching tour add-on is in high demand and tends to sell out quickly. Please keep an eye on your inbox for updates or any changes to your tour.

Inclusions:

• Small Group
• Carbon Neutral
• Whale Watching
• Fish and chips lunch
• Bottled Water
• Local Kiwi snacks
• Wi-Fi and USB charging
• Wine tasting (time permitting)
• Commentary from your guide
• 100% Kiwi Experience

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

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