Kaikōura Whales – Helicopter Wildlife Experience from Christchurch

Discover Kaikōura's marine wildlife on a three-hour helicopter experience departing from Christchurch Airport. Fly along the Canterbury coastline to Kaikōura, where you'll join a helicopter whale-watching flight before returning to Christchurch. The tour includes return scenic flights and aerial wildlife viewing, with departures subject to booking availability and weather conditions. Ideal for couples, families and wildlife enthusiasts, with a minimum of two participants required.

Experience Kaikōura Whale Watching from Above

Take off from Christchurch and follow the spectacular Pacific coastline north towards Kaikōura, with sweeping views of the Canterbury Plains, rugged coastline and Southern Alps. On arrival at Kaikōura's beachfront helipad, you'll meet the experienced Kaikōura Helicopters Whale Watch team before heading out over the ocean. From your helicopter, enjoy a remarkable perspective of the coastline, where towering mountains meet the Pacific Ocean and deep offshore waters attract an abundance of marine life.

Keep your eyes peeled for magnificent sperm whales as they surface, breathe and dive beneath the waves. Unlike boat-based whale-watching tours, the helicopter's elevated vantage point allows you to appreciate the incredible size of these marine giants from head to tail. You may also spot playful dolphins and other marine wildlife swimming through the clear coastal waters. With whale sightings reported on approximately 97% of flights, Kaikōura offers an exceptional opportunity to witness these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.