Kaikoura Helicopters Extended Whale Watch flight
Overview
Within minutes of taking off from our beach from helipads, you will be in the spectacular environment that plays host to one of the worlds largest marine mammals, the magnificent Sperm Whale.
This flight allows you extra time in the whale area to view these majestic creatures of the deep. This also gives you the possibility of viewing dolphins for just a little extra.
- A better option for when the whales are feeding further off shore or are holding their breath for longer than expected.
- More chance to view any transient baleen whales - these whales typically spend short surface intervals (one to 4 breaths) followed by long periods under water (often 2-5 minutes), the longer flight time gives us longer wait for them.
- Depending on the location of the Sperm whales, gives us more time to search for dolphin and /or fly along the Kaikoura southern coastline on our way back to land.
This flight allows you extra time in the whale area to view these majestic creatures of the deep. This also gives you the possibility of viewing dolphins for just a little extra.
- A better option for when the whales are feeding further off shore or are holding their breath for longer than expected.
- More chance to view any transient baleen whales - these whales typically spend short surface intervals (one to 4 breaths) followed by long periods under water (often 2-5 minutes), the longer flight time gives us longer wait for them.
- Depending on the location of the Sperm whales, gives us more time to search for dolphin and /or fly along the Kaikoura southern coastline on our way back to land.
Inclusions
- Scenic helicopter excursion to view sperm whales and wildlife
- View from above Kaikoura’s deep-sea canyon while searching for a Giant Sperm Whale
- Explore the unique and rugged Kaikoura Coastline
- Live commentary from our pilots who are flying encyclopedias on the local area.
- Headset with microphone to clearly hear your commentary and ask questions on your journey
- Unique and uninterrupted views of magnificent marine mammals from above in your luxury helicopter
What to expect
Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Kaikoura, Kaikoura, Canterbury Region, South Island
This helicopter flight departs from our beachfront helipads and whisks you to the spectacular environment that plays host to one of the world's largest marine mammals, the magnificent Sperm Whale.
This heli-flight allows you extra time in the whale area to view these majestic creatures of the deep, a better option for when the whales are feeding further off shore or are holding their breath for longer than expected. The longer flight time also gives you the possibility of viewing dolphins.
You'll also have a better chance to view any transient baleen whales, which typically have short surface intervals (1-4 breaths) followed by long periods under water (often 2-5 minutes). The longer flight time gives us longer wait for them.
Duration: 40 minutes
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Kaikoura, Kaikoura, Canterbury Region, South Island
This helicopter flight departs from our beachfront helipads and whisks you to the spectacular environment that plays host to one of the world's largest marine mammals, the magnificent Sperm Whale.
This heli-flight allows you extra time in the whale area to view these majestic creatures of the deep, a better option for when the whales are feeding further off shore or are holding their breath for longer than expected. The longer flight time also gives you the possibility of viewing dolphins.
You'll also have a better chance to view any transient baleen whales, which typically have short surface intervals (1-4 breaths) followed by long periods under water (often 2-5 minutes). The longer flight time gives us longer wait for them.
Duration: 40 minutes
Additional information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- A headset is provided with a microphone for communicating with your pilot
- Please call 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your booking +64 3 319 6609
- We recommend wearing covered shoes and bringing a warm jacket
- We recommend bringing your camera and sunglasses
- All passengers will be weighed before departure
- Your pilot in command will load helicopter based on weight and balance
- All flights are subject to weather conditions and minimum numbers. Please see our website for full terms and conditions
- If the weather does not allow you to fly, we will be happy to rebook you for a later time if your travel schedule allows.
- Most travelers can participate
- Options to fly to the whales from our other helicopter bases in Christchurch, Nelson, Wellington.
- Please make sure to bring along any medication that you may need.
- You are welcome to bring along a facemask if you wish.
- Face masks required for travelers in public areas
- Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
- Gear/equipment sanitized between use
- Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
- New Zealand Covid 19 tracer app can be used at our reception and are on board our helicopters. Manual check in option is also available. Please carry a facemask and use when required.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Ticket delivery
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
911bernadettek
October 2023
Arron thank you. You made the trip magic from start to finish, from your commentary to your amazing gift of spotting :) Arron, went above and beyond the call of duty to making sure that we had the best experience ever. Professional, knowledgeable and an absolute 'good bugger' Bernadette, Shea.Mol...
Arron thank you. You made the trip magic from start to finish, from your commentary to your amazing gift of spotting :) Arron, went above and beyond the call of duty to making sure that we had the best experience ever. Professional, knowledgeable and an absolute 'good bugger' Bernadette, Shea.Molly, Lulu, Daisy.mabcemaes
February 2023
As first time helicopter passengers this trip far exceeded our expectations! From the start Aaron was professional, knowledgable and reassuring. The flight was smooth and right on time for the sperm whale to be seen on the surface - a real highlght of our holiday in New Zealand. Thank you
As first time helicopter passengers this trip far exceeded our expectations! From the start Aaron was professional, knowledgable and reassuring. The flight was smooth and right on time for the sperm whale to be seen on the surface - a real highlght of our holiday in New Zealand. Thank youSpenceeey
January 2023
Booked late the night before and managed to get a slot the next morning. We understand that whale watching is weather permitting and depends on a little luck as well so we had fingers crossed. The next morning, reached at the mentioned time but it was closed. Turns out I had missed multiple call...
Booked late the night before and managed to get a slot the next morning. We understand that whale watching is weather permitting and depends on a little luck as well so we had fingers crossed. The next morning, reached at the mentioned time but it was closed. Turns out I had missed multiple calls from the office informing me that my flight was delayed. Robin was extremely professional and apologetic even though she tried multiple times to reach me. Aaron the pilot was very professional. He rushed straight back from another flight and met with us. There in the office we planned the best time to see a whale which had been spotted. I love the professionalism and the way they liaised with different operators just to maximise the chance of catching a whale. We saw the whale, dolphins pods, seals and an unmatched view of Kaikoura. Will definitely return again!Y5406AHjoew
May 2022
Don’t hesitate. Just book it. Jordan was great, informative, down to earth. Managed to see both humpback and sperm whales and flew up the side of a mountain. Not your average afternoon..
Don’t hesitate. Just book it. Jordan was great, informative, down to earth. Managed to see both humpback and sperm whales and flew up the side of a mountain. Not your average afternoon..Sophie_A
May 2022
Amazing experience! It was my first helicopter experience and it was absolutely magical! Staff and pilot were very professional and friendly! We were lucky enough to see whales after 5min being in the air. Pilots gave us the option to fly longer or not and make the decision while onboard. Highly...
Amazing experience! It was my first helicopter experience and it was absolutely magical! Staff and pilot were very professional and friendly! We were lucky enough to see whales after 5min being in the air. Pilots gave us the option to fly longer or not and make the decision while onboard. Highly highly recommend! One of the best things I’ve ever done in NZ in 4 years spent here!