The South's Dolphin, Whale & Nature Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ and welcome to Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city and the South Island's capital. A transfer has been arranged from the airport to your hotel.

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is our "Garden City", blessed with beautiful parks and gardens right in the heart of town. English heritage buildings sit side by side with innovative post-earthquake regeneration in this vibrant place.

After settling in, why not relax with a punting trip down the Avon River? Gliding gently along in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch's 'must-see' historic attractions and botanic gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the streets.

Some Suggested Activities Options for Christchurch

Accommodation: Christchurch - 2 Nights

Pick up your rental car this morning and take a beautiful scenic drive over the Banks Peninsula to Akaroa: a harbour-side village which counts the world's rarest dolphin among its neighbours.

You'll love wandering around French-settled Akaroa, with its quaint 19th-century cottages housing an array of artisan galleries & boutiques. It's a charming setting, right by the shimmering waters of the Akaroa Harbour.

Akaroa Harbour Cruise 
Cruising this stunning harbour today, you'll marvel at the giant sea cliffs all around you. You're actually sailing through an extinct volcanic crater! Watch for Fur Seals & Little Blue Penguins, Shags (Cormorants) drying their wings in the sun, and graceful petrel soaring above.

The star of the show is the tiny Hector's Dolphin, which you won't find anywhere else in the world. They are a joy to watch, darting and diving around your boat, as playful as puppies! Your knowledgeable skipper will tell you all about them as you cruise through their little corner of paradise.

Approximate Distance: 85 km | 53 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins (each way)

Today you'll journey through North Canterbury's beautiful rural scenery to the town of Kaikoura, a marine wonderland where towering mountains meet the sea.

Kaikoura's most famous residents are the many whales and dolphins who feast on the abundant seafood in its waters. Sperm whales visit year-round, while the mighty humpback is a regular visitor in June and July.

Kaikoura Whale Watching Tour 
This afternoon brings you closer to these magnificent creatures on a whale watching cruise. Enjoy spotting them as they breach the surface, spouting seawater from their blowholes before diving in search of tasty squid.

End your unforgettable day with freshly caught crayfish at one of Kaikoura's cozy eateries, enjoying one of the glorious sunsets this region is famous for.

Approximate Distance: 180 km | 112 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 1 Night

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

As the coast road leads you out of Kaikoura this morning, look closely at the rocks by the ocean. Are any of them moving? If so, they are probably sunbathing seals!

When you arrive back in Christchurch there may be time for last minute sightseeing or shopping before catching your outbound flight.

We know you will love 'The South's Dolphin, Whale & Nature Itinerary' and our promise to you is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with a memory card full of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and we hope to see you again soon in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Approximate Distance: 180 km | 112 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins