Christchurch Trip Overview
A great way to experience the best of Kaikoura’s sealife! This two-day tour takes you north from Christchurch to the coastal town of Kaikoura; a bustling township with many cafes, restaurants and shops as well as incredible wildlife. Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where whales and dolphins can be encountered every day! When you arrive, head out on a magical swimming encounter with Dusky Dolphins. On day 2, experience the world-famous Kaikoura Whale Watch tour before heading down the scenic coast back to Christchurch.
This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.
Additional Info
Duration: 2 days
Starts: Christchurch, New Zealand
Trip Category: Outdoor Activities >> 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
Explore Christchurch Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
A great way to experience the best of Kaikoura’s sealife! This two-day tour takes you north from Christchurch to the coastal town of Kaikoura; a bustling township with many cafes, restaurants and shops as well as incredible wildlife. Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where whales and dolphins can be encountered every day! When you arrive, head out on a magical swimming encounter with Dusky Dolphins. On day 2, experience the world-famous Kaikoura Whale Watch tour before heading down the scenic coast back to Christchurch.
This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.
Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikoura and Swimming with the Dolphins
Stop At: Kaikoura, Kaikoura, Canterbury Region, South Island
Christchurch to Kaikoura by Intercity Coach. The drive north from Christchurch to Kaikoura takes you through some fine rolling farmland and North Canterbury’s major wine region, the Waipara Valley. Crossing the Hawkswood Range you descend towards the spectacular Kaikoura coastline where the road hugs the ocean as it winds its way the remaining few kilometres to the township.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Encounter Kaikoura (Dolphin Encounter), 96 Esplanade, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand
Dolphin Encounter, Swimming with the Dolphins. Experience a magical swimming encounter with dusky dolphins off the coast of Kaikoura. You’ll be taken out in the catamaran and have the chance to swim in the water with these wild mammals in a completely natural environment. The dusky dolphin inhabits the waters around Kaikoura for most of the year – making it one of the only places in the world where dolphins can be encountered every day.
Duration: 3 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: 1 nights accommodation in a Premium Kaikoura Motel
Day 2: Whale Watch Kaikoura then head back to Christchurch
Stop At: Whale Watch Kaikoura, Whaleway Station Road, Kaikōura 7340, New Zealand
Whale Watch Kaikoura offer a once-in-a-lifetime, up close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale. You are also likely to encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, Dusky Dolphins and Albatross. Depending on the season you may also see Pilot, Blue and Southern Right Whales as well as migrating Humpbacks. Often Orcas can be spotted here and the world’s smallest dolphin, the Hectors, occasionally make an appearance. Cruise in style on modern catamarans, specifically designed for whale watching – Featuring large passenger cabins and outside viewing decks.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Christchurch, Christchurch, Canterbury Region, South Island
Kaikoura to Christchurch by Intercity Coach. The drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch follows the spectacular coastline before heading inland and back through the Waipara Valley. Along the way, you are also introduced to the South Island’s most numerous inhabitant, the sheep. Arriving in Christchurch City puts you close to the airport and the International Antarctic Centre and a visit the following day is highly recommended.
Duration: 3 hours
No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.