New Zealand Whale & Dolphin Tour Itinerary

Collect your rental vehicle this morning and travel north to the Bay of Islands.

The sub-tropical region of the Bay of Islands is a stunning Maritime Park with 144 islands, secluded bays, and an abundance of marine life including marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and many other species. Being somewhat sheltered, the area is ideal for yachting, fishing, kayaking and diving. Rolling countryside, tidal estuaries, mangroves, sparkling and long silvery beaches abound. It is an area of considerable historical significance, and is the place where Maori and European signed the Treaty of Waitangi that joined them as one nation. Long considered the cradle of Polynesian and European settlement in New Zealand, the area is rich in history and natural beauty.

Approximate Distance: 232 kms | 145 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation Russell - 2 Nights

This morning we board the Tutunui a stable, fast, 13 metre (42 foot) catamaran, designed for viewing marine mammals in their natural habitat. 

In the Bay of Islands Maritime Park we usually encounter both bottlenose and common dolphins, and may also see a variety of whale species including orca (killer whales), Bryde’s, pilot, Minke, sei, humpback whales, and very rarely the Blue Whale. We might also encounter blue penguins, gannets, various sea birds and the New Zealand fur seal.  - On our way back to base you'll have the added bonus of stopping off on beautiful Urupukapuka Island. Enjoy the coastal walks and magnificent beaches. Browse through the Maori Arts and Crafts centre or relax in the cafe.
 
NB: Complimentary hot drink and freshwater are readily available and we also have hot showers at Otehei Bay. We have a selection of snorkels, goggles, fins and wetsuit when required.

The Bay with its pristine natural environment is the gathering place in the South Pacific for overseas sailing yachts on world cruises, international sport fishermen, golfers and marine enthusiasts. There are many opportunities to go or relax in the sun on one of the area's many beaches. 

Excursions available in the Bay of Islands:

Approximate Distance: 232 kms | 145 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation Auckland - 2 nights

A short flight has you to Blenhiem and a 30 minute drive has you in Picton, a waterfront village snuggled between the hills and the sea at the top of the South Island New Zealand's gateway to the glorious Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park. It is in the sunny Marlborough region, famous for its visits from Captain Cook in the 1700s, its fine wines, green-lipped mussels, sandy beaches, popular boating centre and the Queen Charlotte Sounds.

Accommodation: Picton - 2 Nights

See the very best of the Marlborough Sounds and especially the beautiful Queen Charlotte on a very special dolphin swimming & viewing cruise. This interactive tour provides a wonderful opportunity to swim and view dolphins in calm and sheltered waters. You can expect to encounter dusky, bottlenose and you may also encounter rare Hector's dolphins. We also visit New Zealand fur seals and spot a variety of seabirds like blue Penguins, Gannets and Shags on the water. Our knowledgeable skipper and guide will provide you with an informed and interesting commentary on the wildlife encountered along with local history of the Marlborough Sounds. There is plenty of time allowed for photography, an all-important part of many people's experiences.

NB: The seasonal success rate - viewing dolphins is 98% and swimmers with Dolphins is 80%.

A spectacular marine playground exists off the coast of Kaikoura and living in this environment is the mighty Sperm Whale. It is here that resident bachelors dive to immense depths in search of Giant Squid, so accessible to Sperm whales but still elusive to mankind. Visitors are drawn to Kaikoura by the ability to view these magnificent mammals in their own environment 12 months of the year and Kaikoura The rich diversity of wildlife found means that every day is a chance to see something different and unique - and you will - from seabirds to cetaceans (whales and dolphins), seals, or even Orca.

Alternative Wildlife Encounters in Kaikoura:

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 1 Night

Banks Peninsula was formed following the violent eruptions of two volcanoes. A crater nurses the picturesque harbour of Akaroa with many smaller bays indenting the spectacular coastline. In 1840, French settlers arrived at Akaroa, To this day; Akaroa remains unique as the site of the only attempted settlement by the French in New Zealand. Many streets have French names, and there are descendants of the original French families still living in Akaroa. This Riviera-style village has some wonderful colonial architecture, creative craft shops, intriguing galleries, delightful gardens, and excellent cafés, bars and restaurants.

Approximate Distance: 265 kms | 165 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours
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Accommodation Akaroa - 2 Nights

The Hector's dolphin is the smallest oceanic dolphin in the world with the female adult only reaching about 1.2 metres (4 foot) long and weighing approximately 47 kilograms ( 103 pounds), while the males are slightly smaller and weigh about 10 kilograms (22 pounds) less. 

Take a scenic cruise exploring the beautiful, sheltered Akaroa harbour. You'll experience a rich variety of marine life including the unique and playful Hector's Dolphin and the rare Little Blue Penguin. The seascape is dominated by towering volcanic cliffs teeming with marine birdlife. If you wish, you have the opportunity to swim with these tiny rare dolphins - the only place you can swim with hectors in the world. 

Leave the city today westwards through the Canterbury plains, you will find a superb location for some great photos at Lake Tekapo. Tekapo is one of three significant, neighboring lakes that border the Mackenzie Valley in New Zealand's South Island. Golden tussock grass carpets the surrounding hillside and roll away into the distance where the Southern Alps frame the horizon. The charming 'Church of the Good Shepherd' sits alone on its shores and the views to our highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook are remarkable.

Tonight you will be inspired by our universe as you view the night skies in this World Heritage Sky Park, at Mt John Observatory.

Approximate Distance: 280 km | 174 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Lake Tekapo - 2 Nights

A free afternoon to explore Queenstown. Enjoy a day relaxing in Queenstown, a pretty town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. There's something for everyone here – from easy walks to fishing, gold panning, wine tasting or adrenaline activities; it’s impossible to run out of things to do. Today, make the most of Queenstown’s scenic beauty and endless opportunities to kick back and relax.

Recommended Excursions in Queenstown:

Approximate Distance: 260 kms | 162 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation Queenstown - 2 Nights

For the most engaging way to experience the riches of Fiordland National Park. This option includes three modes of transport (land, sea & air) making this the ‘holy grail’ of combination tours.

Coach: Board a luxury coach for a journey into beautiful Fiordland. The Road to Milford is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. The first part is relatively mild farmland, and then you’ll ease into a beech forest near the entrance to the Fiordland National Park. Look for the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain and the Mirror Lakes and through the rough-hewn Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound.

Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise of the entire length of Milford Sound viewing the spectacular waterfalls and famous Mitre Peak. Grand, brooding, serene and wild, Milford Sound draws visitors from all over the globe to cruise its length. The purpose-built cruise boat offers excellent viewing of waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and wildlife with large windows, spacious decks, and comfortable lounges.

Fly: Experience the “Absolutely Stunning” scenery as you fly over Sutherland Falls and over beautiful Milford Sound and lakes Te Anau and Lake Manapouri on your way back to Queenstown.

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage! Today we say farewell. We take care of your transfer to Queenstown Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.