Whale Watching in New Zealand

Whale watching is by far one of the most popular water experiences offered in New Zealand and for good reason. Whale watching is not only isolated to one area of New Zealand; it's possible to see several species of whale in different locations around New Zealand. New Zealand is actually internationally recognised for having some of the best views of whales. Getting up close to these magnificent animals is something you really must experience during your lifetime and makes for a memorable experience that will stay with you forever.

So, where is the best place to go? Read on to find out where different whale species can be seen and once you know where you want to go, we can help you book the perfect whale watching experience.

South Island

Kaikōura, located in the South Island has become one of the top tourist destinations for its abundance of rare marine life. In this region Sperm whales are the most common to see, even though they are one of the rarest whales in the world. Not only Sperm whales are viewable but also the largest and heaviest Blue Whale. Probably a little harder to catch of glimpse of these due to whaling but it is possible to spot them swimming and diving somewhere around Kaikōura waters if you’re lucky.

Not only Sperm whales and the Blue Whale are potential encounters but during the months between October and March it's quite possible to see Orcas, better known as the Killer Whale. These whales are common to see around Marlborough Sounds and are one of the most sociable of all the whale species, so the chances of seeing them is quite likely and observing several as they swim in pods is a really fantastic experience.

Akaroa is known for one of New Zealand's popular locations where dolphins love to swim. However, it is also where you'll get to see Humpback whales. Over the past few years, the number of visitors of Humpback whales have been increasing, and so your chances of viewing this great species is also!

Hauraki Gulf

The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park has an abundance of marine life. This marine park comprises of 50 islands and 6 marine reserves making it a perfect location for whale watching. Quite astonishing is that one third of the world’s marine species have visited the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. In this region it's the very rare Bryde’s whale that you can catch a glimpse of. There aren't many left, in fact fewer than 200 of them remain in New Zealand, all located within or close to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.