Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
shearwater colonies. Lookouts and interesting interpretive panels abound. Collect a map
at the i-SITE or follow your nose.
Dive Kaikoura
DIVING
( 03-319 6622, 0800 348 352;
www.divekaikoura.co.nz
;
Yarmouth St; half-day $250)
With its
rocky formations and abundant marine life, the Kaikoura coast offers rewarding diving
and snorkelling. Dive Kaikoura runs small-group trips and diver training.
Clarence River Rafting
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 wilder-
ness camping ($1350). Based on SH1, 40km north of Kaikoura near Clarence Bridge.
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 al-
low you to see the whole whale, as opposed to just a tail, flipper or spout.
Whale Watch Kaikoura
ECOTOUR
( 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 anima-
tion, 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
SCENIC FLIGHTS
