Kaikoura Guided Kayak Tour from Christchurch

South Island

Canterbury Trails

from

NZ$875

per adult

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A dolphin leaps from the water in front of two kayakers in Kaikōura.

Experiences

Kayak & Canoe Tours

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Small Group Tours

Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 8 hours

Minimum Age: 3

Details

Kaikoura Coastal Kayaking and Marine Encounters

The journey north from Christchurch sets the tone for a day of striking contrasts, with rolling farmland giving way to Kaikoura’s dramatic mountain-backed coastline. Travelling in comfort, your guide shares insights about the region’s history and wildlife before arriving in this renowned marine haven. With a maximum of eight guests, the day remains relaxed and personal from start to finish.

Once on the water, paddle through clear, calm seas alongside curious seals and seabirds gliding overhead. Towering cliffs and rocky outcrops create a spectacular backdrop, while sightings of dusky dolphins or little blue penguins add to the excitement. Designed for all experience levels, this guided kayak tour balances adventure with ease, led by experts who ensure safety and comfort throughout.

Silhouettes of kayakers paddling toward the sunrise on a calm Kaikōura morning.

View from the back seat of a tandem kayak during a guided sea kayaking tour in Kaikōura, New Zealand.

Group of kayakers on Kaikōura’s turquoise waters, with snow-capped Seaward Kaikōura Range in the background.

Two kayakers smiling with dusky dolphins surfacing beside them in Kaikōura, New Zealand

Kayakers paddling through a pod of dusky dolphins in Kaikōura.

Sperm whale tail diving in Kaikōura with snow-capped mountains in the background

Dolphins swimming near the coast of Kaikōura under a soft sunset sky

Fur seals basking on rocks with the snow-covered Kaikōura Ranges in the background.

New Zealand Fur Seal gliding through the water with its head above the surface in Kaikōura

Tour Details:

Departs: Christchurch at 7:30 am
Arrives: Christchurch at about 5:45 pm

Inclusions

Travel by luxury vehicle
Maximum of 8 guests per tour.
Fully guided Kayak tour, including all equipment.
Cafe lunch in Kaikoura
Courtesy city hotel pickup and drop-off.
Delicious morning or afternoon tea picnic (weather permitting)
Fully escorted with informative commentary.

Age Information

Adults: 13 years and over
Children: 3-12 years
Minimum Age: 3 years

Cancellations & Refunds

8 days or more before departure: Full refund**
Between 7 days and 48 hours: 50% refund**
Within 48 hours: No refund
Shore Excursions: In the event of a tour cancellation due to unsuitable sea or weather conditions, a partial refund may be issued.

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

7:30 AM – Begin your day with a convenient pickup from your Christchurch accommodation. Settle in for a scenic drive through the rolling hills and lush vineyards of North Canterbury as you head toward the coastal haven of Kaikoura.

10:30 AM – Arrive in Kaikoura, where mountains meet the sea. Meet your expert guide for a comprehensive safety briefing and equipment fitting before starting your kayaking adventure.

11:00 AM – With experienced guides leading the way, paddle through Kaikoura’s stunning marine reserve, exploring the rugged coastline framed by majestic cliffs and the towering Southern Alps. Witness playful seals in their natural habitat and keep an eye out for dusky dolphins and little blue penguins in the crystal-clear waters.

1:30 PM – Relax and recharge with a delicious lunch at a local café, sampling fresh, locally-sourced cuisine while soaking up Kaikoura’s coastal charm.

2:30 PM – Take a short drive to a nearby lookout point offering panoramic views of the Kaikoura Peninsula and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Capture stunning photos and enjoy a moment to take in the scenery.

3:15 PM – Depart Kaikoura for a leisurely drive back to Christchurch. Reflect on the day’s highlights as you pass through more of North Canterbury’s beautiful landscapes.

5:45 PM – Arrive back at your accommodation in Christchurch, concluding your Kaikoura kayaking adventure.