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South Island

Start: Kaikoura
Location: Kaikōura
Travel Time: 1 hour

Details

Whale Encounters from the Sky

Flying out from Kaikōura’s beachfront helipad, this flight takes you straight into the heart of the Hikurangi Marine Reserve. The area is alive with marine wildlife, and spotting a giant Sperm Whale resting between dives is often the highlight of the trip. With migratory species like Humpback, Blue, and Orca also passing through, no two flights are ever the same.

Beyond the whales, dolphins often put on a lively show, leaping beside the helicopter as if racing you across the ocean. This mix of guaranteed excitement and the unknown makes the experience both thrilling and unique. Every moment in the air offers a fresh perspective of Kaikōura’s incredible marine ecosystem.

Mountain Peaks and Coastal Views

After watching the marine life below, the helicopter climbs towards the majestic Kaikōura ranges. Winter offers the added magic of snow landings, giving you the chance to step out into a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. From above, you’ll see the township, peninsula, and coastline stretching endlessly to the south.

On clear days, the horizon even reveals the distant outline of the North Island. As you circle around Mt Fyffe, your pilot highlights the scars left by the 2016 earthquake, a striking reminder of nature’s power. Keep an eye out for wild deer roaming the rugged terrain before descending back to the beachfront helipad.

HIGLIGHTS

  • Take in stunning views of the Kaikoura coastline and the impressive ranges.
  • Spot sperm whales from the sky and perhaps even groups of dolphins.
  • Take off and circle around the western side of Mt Fyffe.
  • Keep an eye out for wild deer as you fly around the isolated mountain range.

AGE INFORMATION

  • Adult: 12 Years Old and Above
  • Children: 3-11 Years Old
  • Infant: 0-2 Years Old (provided at no cost and will be fastened on the lap of a paying passenger)

CANCELLATION & REFUND

  • Bookings of 1-4 people: Full refund if cancelled 24 hours or more before departure.**
  • Bookings of 1-4 people: Non-refundable if cancelled less than 24 hours before departure.
  • Bookings of 5 people or more: Full refund if cancelled 4 days or more before departure.**
  • Bookings of 5 people or more: Non-refundable if cancelled less than 4 days before departure.

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

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

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