Heli-Whale Watch Explorer

Highlights

You are met by our friendly pilots for a short safety briefing and information on the wildlife. After the briefing, board the helicopter to start your amazing experience! Head out into the Hikurangi Marine Reserve to spot the magnificent sperm whales while admiring the gorgeous backdrop of mountains. Resident pods of dusky dolphins are found here, and Kaikoura is on the migratory routes for other species including humpback whales, southern right whales, killer whales, and blue whales depending on the time of year. Once you have spent time with the whale, relax and enjoy the flight back along the rugged coastline of Kaikoura, enjoying the views and spotting any other wildlife that are in the area. Stunning vistas and photo opportunities of the Kaikoura Peninsula, Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Ranges, and the Pacific Ocean await you at every turn. Your experience ends back at the helipad where our complimentary transport is waiting to take you back to town or to your hotel.

Summary

You are met by our friendly pilots for a short safety briefing and information on the wildlife. After the briefing, board the helicopter to start your amazing experience! Head out into the Hikurangi Marine Reserve to spot the magnificent sperm whales while admiring the gorgeous backdrop of mountains. Resident pods of dusky dolphins are found here, and Kaikoura is on the migratory routes for other species including humpback whales, southern right whales, killer whales, and blue whales depending on the time of year. Once you have spent time with the whale, relax and enjoy the flight back along the rugged coastline of Kaikoura, enjoying the views and spotting any other wildlife that are in the area. Stunning vistas and photo opportunities of the Kaikoura Peninsula, Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Ranges, and the Pacific Ocean await you at every turn. Your experience ends back at the helipad where our complimentary transport is waiting to take you back to town or to your hotel.

Tour info

Duration

30 minutes

Why take this tour?

Come experience views like no other, where the ocean meets the sea; see the beauty of Kaikoura and the incredible sperm whale from the comfort of a helicopter! This 30 minute helicopter tour allows you to see the whale from head to tail while experiencing incredible views. As Kāikoura’s only locally owned and operated company, join us to maximise your time with the whales, while minimising your impact on the animals.

What’s included?

Scenic helicopter tour to view whales and other wildlife
Headsets to hear the pilot clearly during your flight
Live commentary from our knowledgable pilots
Round-trip transfer to and from town, with drop off's to hotels available
Food and drinks
Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 30m
Mobile tickets accepted

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

South Pacific Helicopters

About operator:

South Pacific Helicopters is New Zealand's premier whale watching excursion and the only locally owned and operated helicopter company in Kaikoura. Offering unparalleled whale watching experiences. Soar above it all, explore nature with us, and have an unforgettable one-of-a-kind unique adventure in New Zealand. South Pacific Whale Watch offer a quality experience orbiting the resident sperm whales and the playful dusky dolphins and curious New Zealand fur seals. Not only can we show you the whales, but within minutes we can also have you landing high in the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges that tower straight out of the Pacific Ocean, for amazing views of the local area. South Pacific Helicopters, also provides services such as charter and scenic flights, mountain biking, rafting, hunting, photography, engagement, skiing and snowboarding in season, wedding, special occasions, plus commercial work specialising in precision lifting. And - 100% No Sea Sickness!