Embark on a day tour from Christchurch to Kaikoura and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of this coastal town. Encounter dolphins, explore coastal walks, and indulge in local cuisine.
Embark on a day tour from Christchurch to Kaikoura and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of this coastal town. Encounter dolphins, explore coastal walks, and indulge in local cuisine.
- Canterbury Region - The journey begins by departing from Ōtautahi Christchurch, famously known as New Zealand’s Garden City. As the tour heads north towards Kaikōura, the experienced guide will highlight some of the central city attractions and share interesting facts about the broader Canterbury region.
- Cheviot - The first stop is in…
- Canterbury Region - The journey begins by departing from Ōtautahi Christchurch, famously known as New Zealand’s Garden City. As the tour heads north towards Kaikōura, the experienced guide will highlight some of the central city attractions and share interesting facts about the broader Canterbury region.
- Cheviot - The first stop is in Cheviot, a hidden treasure along one of New Zealand’s largest coastal routes. It’s an ideal place to stretch and recharge. After a short break, the tour continues through the breathtaking Hundalee Hills, offering opportunities to spot surfers and local wildlife, including seals! The scenic drive provides stunning views throughout.
- Kaikoura - The tour’s highlight! Upon reaching Kaikōura, the guide will lead a classic Kiwi fish and chip lunch before dropping guests at their pre-booked Dolphin Encounter Tour. Joining the tour as an observer offers spectacular views of the energetic and acrobatic dolphins. Their thrilling displays of jumps, leaps, tail slapping, and somersaults create the most incredible dolphin show on earth! (Assistance is available for those wishing to swim with them as well).
Please note that this tour is exclusively for those interested in a dolphin encounter. Unfortunately, there will be no time for additional walks or local shopping.
- Waipara Hills - If Time Allows: Waipara - If time allows, a stop at Waipara, a renowned wine region surrounded by lush vineyards and green hills, will be made. Here, guests can sample a selection of locally produced wines from a family-owned vineyard. For those who prefer, beer and non-alcoholic options are also available! (THIS STOP IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY, NO REFUND PROVIDED)
- Christchurch - After an amazing day in Kaikōura, the tour returns to the Garden City, Christchurch. Guests can sit back and relax, reflecting on a day filled with stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings. With a camera roll full of memories, this day will surely be one to boast about!

- Dolphin Encounter Ticket (watching only)
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All Fees and Taxes
- Dolphin Encounter Ticket (watching only)
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All Fees and Taxes
Kaikōura, meaning ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a charming coastal town that is often missed by tourists. Nestled between the majestic Kaikōura Ranges, which are snow-capped in winter, and the stunning turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this region is truly awe-inspiring. Renowned for its abundant wildlife that thrives along…
Kaikōura, meaning ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a charming coastal town that is often missed by tourists. Nestled between the majestic Kaikōura Ranges, which are snow-capped in winter, and the stunning turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this region is truly awe-inspiring. Renowned for its abundant wildlife that thrives along Aotearoa’s east coast, the town suffered significant damage and seabed uplift due to a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Nearly a decade later, Kaikōura has made remarkable progress, even being recognized as one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by the luxury travel authority, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023.
Travel in style and comfort in our modern Mercedes Sprinter (or a similar vehicle), equipped with all the amenities to enhance your journey. Guided by our enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and featuring a Dolphin Encounter Tour (approximately 4 hours), this adventure promises to be unforgettable.
- Alcohol only provided to people 18 years or older
- Missing time from the tour duration will be allotted for travel time
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.