New Zealand is a country of stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. One of the most exciting experiences of our trip was the whale watching tour in Kaikoura, a small coastal town on the South Island. Known for its spectacular marine life, Kaikoura attracts nature lovers and adventurers all year round.
Kaikoura and its whales: A nature lover's paradise
Kaikoura, a picturesque coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island, is world famous for its spectacular marine life. Nestled between majestic mountains and the deep blue ocean, Kaikoura offers a unique opportunity to view wildlife in its natural environment. Kaikoura’s unique location and the abundance of food in the sea provide ideal conditions for various species of whales. The deep waters off the coast attract sperm whales, orcas, humpback whales and many other marine species. Kaikoura is a must for nature lovers and adventurers. The combination of stunning scenery and the chance to see these fascinating animals up close makes it a unique destination.
Orcas and seals
Our trip to Kaikoura was dominated by the anticipation of the whale tour we had booked. Unfortunately, we found out on the first day that the weather wasn’t cooperating and the tour was cancelled. But it turned out to be a stroke of luck. Instead of being disappointed, we were treated to a spectacular natural spectacle: we saw orcas swimming freely in the sea and seals sunbathing on the shore. The picturesque coastal town showed us why it is known as a hotspot for marine life.
Whale watching: An unforgettable experience
Then it was finally time for the whale tour. Despite the seasickness warning, we were not put off. And it was worth it!
Encounter with sperm whales: Unique opportunity
On the open sea, we were incredibly lucky to see sperm whales. These majestic sea giants were a completely new experience for us, as we had only ever seen humpback whales in Australia. Sperm whales, known for their impressive size and deep diving behaviour, left a lasting impression on us. Their calm movements and sheer presence in the water were mesmerising.
Albatrosses and dolphins: Fun tour companions
In addition to the sperm whales, another highlight was the sighting of an albatross at sea. These huge birds, gliding effortlessly over the waves, are a rare and impressive sight. Particularly amusing were the numerous dolphins that circled our boat and entertained us with their acrobatic jumps. Their playfulness and energy was infectious and made for many unforgettable moments.
Our whale watching tour in Kaikoura was a highlight of our New Zealand trip. We were deeply impressed by the diversity and beauty of the wildlife we saw. It was a great tour that we would recommend to any nature lover. Kaikoura showed us that there is always something to discover, even when things don’t go to plan. It is a place that teaches you to appreciate and respect nature in all its glory.
