Kaikoura Travel Guides (Updated September 2026)

Awesome experience. We got to see humpback whales, seals, albatross and dolphins. Very knowledgeable crew!!

Amazing experience! We did the half day walk along the beach. The two of us humans walked with llamas (Harry and Achie) who were adorable. Interesting and educational stories from our guide, Kevin. Bonding with the llamas was an incredible journey. Amazing scenery and bonus delicious cake.

Amazing experience! We walked with llamas (Harry and Achie) who were adorable. Interesting and educational stories from our guide, Kevin. Bonding with the llamas was an incredible journey. Amazing scenery and bonus delicious cake.

I concur with the very positive commentary others have made surrounding safety, commentary, vessels and whale watching experience, and just wanted to add my apprehension about sea sickness was unfounded. I purchased the seasickness tablets and wrist acupressure band available at the counter in the gift shop before boarding, but could have saved myself the NZ$60+. As the photos show the weather was reasonable and the seas were flat. The boat doesn't go out far enough to be really exposed to rough seas. The biggest risk of seasickness isn't from the ocean but from the skipper showing off the boat's turning-on-a-dime capabilities.

Amazing day out on the mountain, baby calf’s and lambs were the icing on the cake, the guides were funny and very professional, beautiful views across the valleys

The whole trip was incredible, and getting so close to the seals in their natural environment was definitely a highlight. The pedal kayaking technology made it so much easier to get around, especially when keeping up with the group, and meant we could focus more on enjoying the scenery and seals rather than struggling with paddling.Charlie was great, professional and safety-conscious, but also funny and easygoing. He also had some great historical knowledge about the area, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. We felt completely safe the entire time, and he was great at explaining everything and making sure everyone was comfortable.The scenery was amazing and the whole experience was unforgettable. Would 100% recommend this experience to anyone visiting Kaikōura!

Fabulous experience from start to finish. We were very well looked after by Eden and Kaylee. Great knowledge, lots of entertaining banter and of course fastidious attention to our safety. The zip line itself definitely took us out of our comfort zone, was exhilarating and so much fun. The scenery was stunning.

We’ve just had the most amazing afternoon trek with our guide, Kevin, and three of his llamas: Harry, Archie and Pegasus.We got to spend lots of time walking these magnificent creatures but also learned lots about llamas and how to encourage them to trust us and not see us as predators, so that they felt comfortable with us leading them too.There were lots of photo opportunities later in the trek when we’d established a rapport with the llamas and they even started humming to each other towards the end!Our 10-year-old was able to have her own llama to lead and had a brilliant time.An unforgettable experience and highly recommend this while you’re in Kaikoura.

Experience was fantastic! We had a really great time on board Air Kaikoura. We saw a bunch of whales, even though they were being a bit shy during our flight. The pilot worked hard to get us the best views and max time where the whales were at the surface. Thank you!!

Incredible. Once in a life time awesome experience.

We decided to try something different and trekking with the Llamas did not disappoint. Rupert and Hank the Llamas were incredible. Our host was very knowledgeable and passionate. Would highly recommend 🤗

Amazing experience: whales, dolphins, seals

This was a phenomenal experience and a must do for animal lovers. We snorkeled in June and the water was fine, about 52 degrees Fahrenheit. The dolphins were super talkative and playful and we saw about 100 of them swimming around is. Our boat guides Nick and Vick were extremely helpful, especially for my friend, which it was his first time snorkeling. We both had a blast!

Amazing tour experience Guide was friendly , helped get my non mobile spouse into a kayak. Tons of dolphins putting on a show. No rushing about.

Well organised. Experienced and very supportive guide, Matt. We had a great experience. Saw Hector dolphins and lots of seals. If you only have time for one tour in Kaikoura, this is recommended.

Great experience - kayaks were comfy and easy to use, we had paddle canoes that let you canoe hands free which was amazing. The tour guide was great craic and kept things entertaining as we were canoeing to the seals and dolphins we saw! Highly recommend this.