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Whale Watch Heli Gourmet Experience

South Island

Kaikoura Helicopters

from
NZ$1990
per couple
Kaikōura Helicopter parked near the coast with stunning mountain and sea backdrop

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights Helicopter Scenic Flights Nature & Wildlife Nature & Wildlife Food, Wine & Beer Tours Food, Wine & Beer Tours Half-Day Tours Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Kaikoura
Location: Kaikōura
Travel Time: 2 hours

Details

Whale Encounters from the Sky

Taking off from Kaikōura’s beachfront helipads, your adventure begins with sweeping views over the coastline before heading towards the Hikurangi Marine Reserve. This rich marine environment is home to sperm whales year-round, with seasonal visitors including humpbacks, orca, blue whales, and dolphins. Each flight is different, offering a unique chance to see some of the ocean’s most impressive wildlife.

After whale spotting, the flight continues westward along the coast before soaring inland across the Kaikōura flats and over the Seaward Kaikōura ranges. Your pilot will share stories of the dramatic 2016 earthquake, pointing out visible scars in the mountains. It’s a rare perspective that combines both natural beauty and geological history.

Search icon Kaikōura Helicopter flying over calm ocean with snowy mountain backdrop
Search icon Aerial view of two whales surfacing during Kaikōura Helicopters whale watching tour
Search icon Sperm whale surfacing in the deep blue ocean near Kaikōura, seen from a helicopter
Search icon Sperm whale tail visible from helicopter as it dives into the Kaikōura waters
Search icon Close-up of Kaikōura Helicopters tail flying over Chest Peak and Southern Alps during whale watching tour
Search icon Kaikōura Helicopter flying above Hapuku Lodge’s treehouse accommodation surrounded by native forest
Search icon Helicopter landed next to Hapuku Lodge with snow-capped Kaikōura Ranges in the background
Search icon Hapuku Lodge and Kaikōura Helicopter under a bright blue sky with native garden
Search icon Helicopter landed outside Hapuku Lodge surrounded by native greenery
Search icon Aerial view of Kaikōura coast from helicopter cockpit during whale watching flight

A Gourmet Touch to your Journey

The helicopter then traces the path of the Hapuku River, leading to the secluded Hapuku Lodge. Here, guests are treated to a three-course à la carte lunch in a tranquil setting surrounded by native bush and mountain views. This dining experience elevates the journey, combining luxury with local flavours.

After lunch, the adventure continues with a scenic flight back along Kaikōura’s dramatic coastline. From soaring cliffs to turquoise waters, the return journey offers breathtaking photo opportunities. Touching down at the beachfront helipad, you’ll take with you memories of whales, wilderness, and world-class cuisine.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • 30-minute Whale Watching flight.
    Scenic mountain flight with landing in the Alps.
  • 3-course à la carte meal at Hapuku Lodge.
  • Amazing views of mountains and sea.

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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