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Whales and wildlife of KaikouraDusky dolphins, KaikouraKaikoura is a small seaside town that enjoys amagnificent setting on a rocky outcrop. Setagainst a backdrop of mountain peaks, thespectacular landscape is equalled by a uniquemarine environment. Cold waters from thevast offshore depths mix with warmer currentsforcing nutrients to the surface and attractingpods of dolphins and sperm whales that inhabitthe waters year round. There are also severalcolonies of fur seals around Kaikoura and somebeautiful scenic walks. For those with limitedtime we are able to arrange excellent wildlifetrips; a great way to experience the area.Blue whale, KaikouraWhale watching by boatWhale watching trips are one of NewZealand’s most popular wildlife excursions andKaikoura offers superb opportunities to seemajestic sperm whales. The boats are equippedwith the very latest high-tech equipment tolocate the whales and have a sighting successrate of over 95%. Depending on the seasonyou may also see migrating humpback whales,pilot whales, blue whales and southern rightwhales. Orcas, the largest of the dolphin family,are also common visitors to the region.Scenic flightsAn alternative view of the whales can beenjoyed on a scenic flight. Travelling by lightaircraft you can enjoy incredible sightings ofwhales and the dramatic vistas of the KaikouraRange. Your pilot will provide commentaryabout the whales, any other marine wildlife youmay encounter, and the surrounding landscapeand local Maori fortifications.DolphinsKaikoura is equally well known for its dolphins.Whilst you will undoubtedly spot these playfulcreatures during a whale watching tour,dedicated trips are also available. Joining a podof several hundred dolphins to swim andinteract with them is a memorable experience.The most common species is the duskydolphin, which is gregarious and social, andhighly acrobatic. They genuinely seemintrigued by interaction with humans, and willchoose to follow the boats and circle theswimmers, clicking and whistling and leapingall around them.Bird watchingWith an incredible diversity of pelagic birds,Kaikoura is the albatross capital of the worldand over 14 species are known to visitthroughout the year. Many of these speciesare generally inaccessible in other parts of theworld, but in Kaikoura are found within 15minutes’ boat journey of the shore.Responsible travelHowever you choose to view or interactwith Kaikoura’s marine wildlife, you can restassured that any trip we recommend isconducted in a responsible manner and thatthe species involved are protected in everyThe Anchor Inn Motel, Kaikouraway possible. The local council has adopted anenvironmental and social sustainability policy toreduce the environmental impact of thecommunity and its visitors.Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses, KaikouraHapuku Lodge & TreeHouses, KaikouraHapuku Lodge is dramatically situatedbetween the mountains and the sea. Fromelegant lodge rooms to romantic tree houses,everything about this imaginative property hasbeen built to the highest of standards. Stylishwood-burning stoves warm the rooms but onsunnier days guests can relax by the shelteredpool. The property is just a few minutes fromKaikoura but houses its own highly regardedrestaurant and, given the tranquil setting, youare unlikely to want to venture far.The Anchor Inn Motel,KaikouraEnjoying a great location on Kaikoura’sEsplanade, most rooms at the Anchor InnMotel offer sea and mountain views. Thisexcellent value property is 30 minutes’ walkfrom the Whaleway Station, where whalewatching trips depart from, and the heart ofKaikoura town. The self-contained apartmentsall have fully equipped kitchens and there arebarbecue facilities to use on warmer days.The owners are particularly knowledgeableabout local wildlife tours and will be more thanhappy to assist you with plans and bookings.44