Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Clarence River Rafting
( 03-319 6993;
www.clarenceriverrafting.co.nz
;
3802 SH1, at Clarence Bridge; half-day trip adult/child $120/80)
Raft the bouncy Grade II rapids of the scenic Clarence River on a half-day trip (two hours
on the water), or on longer journeys including a five-day trip with wilderness camping
($1350). Based on SH1, 40km north of Kaikoura near Clarence Bridge.
RAFTING
Tours
Wildlife tours are Kaikoura's speciality, particularly those involving whales (including
sperm, pilot, killer, humpback and southern right), dolphins (Hector's, bottlenose and
dusky) and NZ fur seals. There's also plenty of birdlife, including albatross and blue pen-
guins. During summer, book your tour a few weeks ahead, and allow some leeway for
lousy weather.
Whale-Watching
Your choices are boat, plane or helicopter. Aerial options are shorter and pricier, but allow
you to see the whole whale, as opposed to just a tail, flipper or spout.
Whale Watch Kaikoura
MAP
ECOTOUR
GOOGLE MAP
( 03-319 6767, 0800 655 121;
www.whalewatch.co.nz
;
Railway Station; 3hr tour adult/child $145/60)
With
knowledgeable guides and fascinating 'world of whales' on-board animation, Kaikoura's
biggest operator heads out on boat trips (with admirable frequency) to introduce you to
some of the big fellas. It'll refund 80% of your fare if no whales are sighted (success rate:
98%). If this trip is a must for you, allow a few days flexibility in case the weather turns to
custard.
Kaikoura Helicopters
MAP
SCENIC FLIGHTS
GOOGLE MAP
( 03-319 6609;
www.worldofwhales.co.nz
;
Railway Station; 15-60min flight from $100-490)
Reliable whale-
spotting flights (standard 30-minute tour $220 each for three or more people), plus jaunts
around the peninsula, Mt Fyffe and peaks beyond.
Wings over Whales
ECOTOUR
