10 Dolphin & Whale Watching in New Zealand That You Shouldn't Miss

One of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in the wild! We operate on the dolphins' terms. Swim with the dolphins in their natural environment or watch their acrobatic displays form the comfort of the boat.

Experience Kaikoura's mighty Sperm Whale, playful Dusky Dolphin and majestic scenery from above! Wings Over Whales Kaikoura conduct whale watching flights, scenic mountain tours and private charter. Endorsed by Qualmark New Zealand, our professional and experienced team will ensure you have a safe and comfortable flight. Passengers have their own window seat and our high-winged aircraft will allow you to enjoy unobstructed views of Kaikoura's marine wildlife and spectacular scenery. Wings Over Whales operate two aircraft; a 4-seater Cessna 172 as well as an 8-seater Gippsland Airvan. Wings Over Whales are situated at Kaikoura Airport, an 8km drive south from the town centre. Located in an inviting log cabin terminal, customers can enjoy great facilities with on-site gift shop, cafe and rest room facilities. In typical 30 minute flight you will see the majestic Sperm Whale preparing for his next dive and up to 500 Dusky Dolphins playfully swimming. Occasional sightings include Orca, Humpback,Pilot and the rare Blue Whale.

Swimming with New Zealand fur seals in the shallow bays of the beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula really is an experience that you don't want to miss. Tours take 2.5 hours and depart several times daily during summer. No experience is necessary and all equipment is supplied. Many travelers site their seal swimming experience as a highlight of there New Zealand holiday. For more information contact us...

Experience with us and help protect our wild dolphins! Surrounded by deep blue water, vivid green islands and diverse wildlife, sailing on Carino NZ our 50ft catamaran is the best way to experience the stunning bay of islands. Help to set sails or sit back and relax as the sails catch the breeze. Watch wild dolphins in their ocean habitat. We are only yacht licensed view wild dolphins in the Bay of islands. We can watch and appreciate the magic of wild dolphins. Every ticket directly contributes to marine mammal research and conservation – Protect the future. While we are sailing, watch for our local little blue penguins, the world’s smallest penguin, our crazy diving gannets, pied cormorants, shearwaters, stormy petrels and other ocean birds. An island stop is included, where you get to explore a historic scenic island with nature walks and snorkel the beach. Kiwi style bbq lunch aboard Carino NZ, with a cash bar available. Departs Paihia daily 9.00am-3.30pm

Experience the fantastic coastline around Akaroa in a spacious and comfortable Kauri launch. Local skipper, Tony, takes small groups to view the amazing wildlife,including penguins,dolphins, fur seals, and spectacular rock formations and sea caves.Terrific photo opportunities!

Let our crew, including our dolphin spotting dogs, take you on a journey of discovery through the long history of Akaroa harbour and its inhabitants. Our low-lying luxurious, spacious boat ensures you have a closer encounter with the rare Hector’s dolphins. We also endeavour to give you the best possible viewing of our local New Zealand fur seals, penguins and seabirds. Along the way, you will get to see sea caves and other spectacular volcanic formations too. We offer a friendly and comfortable experience that includes complimentary drinks of local award-winning wine, beer or juice, as well as some delicious home baking. Our 100% locally owned and operated business is committed to raising awareness and protecting the marine environment. That is why a portion of your fare goes towards protecting our wildlife. To find out more about our conservation commits please visit our website. Please note, we do not swim with the dolphins.

Tauranga company that takes people out to swim with wild dolphins, as well as showing you any other marine life we can find. We supply everything even lunch and a guided snorkel at a local island. Amazing day with the best crew in the bay by far.

Dolphin Swimming and Harbour Cruise Adventures. Small Professional Family Company 100% Locally Owned & Operated. Only 12 Guests On Each Tour. Personal Experience. Free Dolphin Swimming Photos.

Celebrating over 20 Years of Service! KAIKOURA'S ORIGINAL KAYAK OPERATOR - Est -1998. 100% Seal viewing - meet the locals of the marine kind in a real Sea Kayak with us today. Curious NZ Fur Seals, Blue Penguins and Dusky Dolphins are only a few paddle strokes away and our local Kiwi Guides would love to introduce you to them around the Kaikoura Peninsula. Stay warm and dry in our enclosed stable sea kayaks with all equipment provided including GORE-TEX dry pants in winter, wet shoes for your feet and dry bags for camera's. Our wildlife "Seal Kayaking" tours offer a safe, enjoyable, interactive experience, with little effort and a whole lot of good fun. No experience needed, suitable for all ages and abilities. Families welcome. If you want to tick off a real Kayaking experience from your bucket list with the help of our qualified Guides amongst a multitude of marine life in New Zealand, come paddling with us! (: The only Kaikoura kayak operator permitted to view dolhpins.

Cave Cruzer Boat Tours is the original Whitianga Marine Adventure Tour. Our open vessel gives you 360 degree unimpeded views, NO ROOF means you can experience the full height of the majestic landscape and will take you into places that other boats cannot. You will learn local history of interest and visit caves, blowholes and the Marine Reserve where you will see an abundant amount of sea life. We take you to the world famous Cathedral Cove, the beautiful set used for part of the Prince Caspian/Narnia movies. Shakespeares Cliff, Cooks Blowhole, Champagne Rock and the Orua Sea Cave (NZ's 2nd biggest sea cave), to name a few. NZ fur seals can be seen frolicking in the crystal clear waters from time to time and if you are really lucky, we have a NZ Department of Conservation licence to view all Marine life in the area. Safety is paramount and we as a company are committed to providing you with the best experience in the 'Bay' on the day. This area is a photographers dream!