Kaikōura Day Tour From Christchurch With Dolphin Encounter

Overview

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Dolphin Encounter Tour (approximately 4 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.

Itinerary

1. Canterbury Region

   We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head north towards Kaikōura, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights and facts about the wider Canterbury region.

   · Non-stop passage

2. Cheviot

   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.

   · 15 min

3. Kaikoura

   The highlight of the tour! Upon arriving in Kaikōura, our guide will take you for a classic Kiwi fish and chip lunch, before we drop you at your pre-booked Dolphin Encounter Tour. The opportunity to join the tour as a watcher provides spectacular viewing of these acrobatic and energised dolphins. Their exhilarating displays of jumps, leaps, tail slapping and somersaults provide the most incredible dolphin show on earth! (If you would like to swim with them, we can help to accommodate this as well). *Please note that this product is purely for those interested in a dolphin encounter. There will be no time for additional walks or local shopping unfortunately.

   · 4 h

4. Waipara Hills

   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 and non-alcoholic options are available as an alternative! (THIS STOP IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILTY NO REFUND PROVIDED)

   · 30 min· Admission included

5. Christchurch

   After a fantastic day in Kaikōura, we’ll head back to the Garden City. Christchurch, Sit back and where you can relax after a day full of and reflect on a day full of stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

   · 1 min

Pickup

Pickup or meet at the departure point.

For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted. Please make sure you have let us know your pickup location. For hotel pickups please be waiting at or Infront of reception. Please see pick up times below 07:55 Hotel Elms 08:03 Scenic Hotel Cotswold 8:08 Sudima City 08:10 Crowne Plaza 08:12 Novotel City 08:14 Distinction 08:17 Christchurch City Hotel 08:20 Christchurch Bus Interchange (Intercity stop) 08:24 Breakfree 08:27 Rydges Latimer 08:30 Urbanz 08:33 Fino 08:35 The George 08:40 Hotel Give 08:55 Commodore Christchurch Airport 09:00 Sudima Christchurch Airport

How to use your ticket

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Alcohol only provided to people 18 years or older
• Missing time from the tour duration will be allotted for travel time

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather or if there aren't enough participants.

Reviews

Product code: 312127P27

Activity offered by Cheeky Kea Tours via Viator.