Kaikoura Whales
Overview
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
- Local pilots
- Live commentary on board
- Lunch not included in price
Meeting Location
73 Grays Road
Harewood, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Book Online
Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free
Garden City Helicopters
15 minutes Admission Ticket Included
Christchurch (pass by)
Kaikoura
1 hour Admission Ticket Free
Kaikoura
45 minutes Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- 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
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 4 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (8)
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Kaikoura Whales?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-6036P8
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
Similar Tours & Activities
This is a private small group tour for up to 11 people. The route around Christchurch and Lyttelton takes you over the old volcanoes of...
$900
Spectacular scenery and lots of opportunity for adventure, this 8 day South Island adventure starts and finishes in the diverse city of Christchurch. Turquoise lakes,...
$1,079
Combines helicopter flight and jet boat safari in one experience Scenic flight over the Southern Alps and the braided Waimakariri River High-speed jet boat ride...
$511
This will be Private tour just for you and your group. There will be no disturb, no noise. You can enjoy the tour with your...
$162
This is a private small group tour for up to 11 people. The route around Christchurch and Lyttelton takes you over the old volcanoes of...
$900
Spectacular scenery and lots of opportunity for adventure, this 8 day South Island adventure starts and finishes in the diverse city of Christchurch. Turquoise lakes,...
$1,079
Combines helicopter flight and jet boat safari in one experience Scenic flight over the Southern Alps and the braided Waimakariri River High-speed jet boat ride...
$511
This will be Private tour just for you and your group. There will be no disturb, no noise. You can enjoy the tour with your...
$162
Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
The International Antarctic Centre transports a slice of this astounding continent to Christchurch, with a range of immersive experiences that allow everyday visitors to see,...
$42
Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram
Welcome aboard the Christchurch Tram! Travel on our newly extended track & enjoy this unique and historic way to view the inner city. Drivers provide...
$24
Fly high above Christchurch on New Zealand's longest & highest Zipline. Set on 358 private hectares in Christchurch’s stunning Port Hills, the Christchurch Adventure Park...
$113
Enjoy an afternoon Wine Trail tour through North Canterbury’s Waipara Valley, visiting three boutique vineyards such as Waipara Springs, Torlesse, Pegasus Bay, or Georges Road....
$113
The International Antarctic Centre transports a slice of this astounding continent to Christchurch, with a range of immersive experiences that allow everyday visitors to see,...
$42
Welcome aboard the Christchurch Tram! Travel on our newly extended track & enjoy this unique and historic way to view the inner city. Drivers provide...
$24
Fly high above Christchurch on New Zealand's longest & highest Zipline. Set on 358 private hectares in Christchurch’s stunning Port Hills, the Christchurch Adventure Park...
$113
Enjoy an afternoon Wine Trail tour through North Canterbury’s Waipara Valley, visiting three boutique vineyards such as Waipara Springs, Torlesse, Pegasus Bay, or Georges Road....
$113
Frequently Asked Questions (8)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
Filter by:
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
- This tour 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.
- Local pilots.
- Live commentary on board.
- Lunch not included in price.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Kaikoura Whales is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Kaikoura Whales will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- Local pilots
- Live commentary on board
- Lunch not included in price
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- 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
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 4 travelers
