Coastal Canterbury
Coastal Canterbury Picture Gallery
Viewing the whales from the air gives a fascinating perspective on their size.
Join us as we take you to explore the wonderful coastline of the Canterbury region.
Just an hour to the east of Christchurch is Banks Peninsula, home to the quaint French settled village of Akaroa. Enjoy a memorable guided cruise of Akaroa Harbour. Spectacular to admire, Akaroa Harbour is renowned for it’s sparkling waters which are home to a variety of sea life. This includes the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector’s dolphins, as well as New Zealand fur seals, little blue penguins and a myriad of bird life. Returning to shore, enjoy fresh fish and chips on the waterfront before being driven back your hotel in Christchurch. To the north of Christchurch lies Kaikoura. The coastal waters that border Kaikoura are home to numerous marine mammals and birdlife. Perhaps the most famous residents are the mighty sperm whales who share this part of the Pacific Ocean with dusky dolphins, fur seals and albatross. From Kaikoura you will fly out over the Pacific Ocean by helicopter. Within ten minutes you will be in the whale watching area. We recommend viewing whales by helicopter as it is less weather dependent than by boat and passengers are not subjected to the large swells. Boat trips are however available by request.
