Whale Watching Flights with Air Kaikoura Aero Club
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours total including check-in
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Overview
Take flight over Kaikōura for an unforgettable whale-watching experience from the sky. Secure a window seat and spot sperm whales, dolphins, and more against New Zealand's rugged coastline.
40 Minutes - Extended Whale Watching Flight
40 minute Flight Time
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of whale-watching from above on a breathtaking flight over Kaikoura. Enjoy guaranteed window seats for stunning views of sperm whales, dolphins, and more. This extended journey offers the chance to spot various marine life while soaking in the spectacular New Zealand coastline and alpine scenery.
Take to the skies for a unique view on a whale-watching flight over Kaikoura. With a guaranteed window seat, all passengers get great views of the coastline and its marine life below.
WINTER SPECIAL ON NOW
Usually $250pp, Now only $165pp
Duration
40 Minutes flight time (approx.) Allow 1.5 hours total from check in.
About
- Cover large ocean distances to maximize whale-watching opportunities by plane
- Enjoy spectacular aerial views of sperm whales and dusky dolphins in Kaikoura
- Take fantastic, unimpeded photos from your guaranteed window seat on the flight
- Search for playful humpback whales, imposing orcas and mighty blue whales
- Take in panoramic views of stunning NZ alpine and coastal scenery from the air
An extended flight for the best chance of finding different species of marine life, with the focus on finding sperm whales. If time allows, we will have a look at the peninsula, the seal colony and the Kaikoura ranges.
More information
Weather permitted, we can guarantee a flight with a minimum of two passengers. There is an option to extend your flight to give you the best chance to see the whales. Our whale watching fleet includes our newest addition, the 8 seater GA-8 Airvan, a high wing aircraft perfect for scenic flights. We use our Cessna 172 aircraft for smaller groups.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Check-In
Check in at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure your flight isn’t delayed or missed.
Bring a Camera with a Zoom Lens
Use a camera with zoom capabilities to capture detailed shots of whales and dolphins from the air.
Dress in Layers
Aircraft cabins can be cool at altitude, so wear layered clothing to stay comfortable.
Be Weather Prepared
Flights are weather dependent—stay flexible with your schedule in case of cancellations or rescheduling.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sperm whales
- Dusky dolphins
History
Kaikōura’s name means 'meal of crayfish' in Māori, reflecting the area's rich marine food sources that have sustained the Ngāti Kurī iwi for centuries.
Conservation
The Kaikōura marine environment is protected through strict conservation measures that balance tourism with habitat preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Christchurch
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Camera with Zoom Lens
To capture detailed photos of distant marine life during flight.
Layered Clothing
To stay warm and adjust to changing temperatures onboard the aircraft.
all specific
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from sun glare reflecting off the ocean and aircraft windows.
summer specific
Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience by spotting marine animals from afar.