Imagine yourself on the untouched beaches of New Zealand, encircled by azure waters that reach endlessly toward the horizon. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as you set off on an exhilarating journey unlike any other – whale watching in New Zealand, the realm of the long white cloud & The Lord of The Rings!
Step into a realm where the colossal beings of the ocean move freely, granting you a prime spot to behold their magnificent presence and this extraordinary experience.
Whale watching in New Zealand ©Niels Thomas
A Brief History of Whaling in New Zealand and the Advent of Whale Watching
Whales have been integral to New Zealand’s story, from the days of commercial whaling to the rise of whale watching as a favored and eco-friendly tourism pursuit.
From the late 18th century until the early to mid-20th century, whalers targeted whales for their precious resources, including oil, blubber, and baleen. Shore stations were set up around the coastline, drawing daring individuals eager to make wealth in the whaling industry. Whaling vessels ventured into perilous seas utilizing harpoons and various methods to capture and process the whales.
The exhaustive hunting practices during the whaling period had a catastrophic effect on whale populations globally, including in New Zealand’s waters. Numerous species, such as the southern right whale and humpback whale, were nearly driven to extinction.
As understanding of the ecological significance and beauty of whales flourished, measures were enacted to safeguard and preserve these magnificent animals, marked by the implementation of the Marine Mammal Protections Regulations in 1978 by the Department of Conservation (DOC).
Humpback whale feeding behavior
In the late 20th century, a notable transformation took place regarding human interaction with whales. Rather than hunting them, people began to admire and observe them in their natural surroundings. Whale watching emerged as a substitute for whaling, providing an avenue for educating the public about marine conservation and highlighting the necessity for protecting these extraordinary animals.
What is the premier whale watching locale in New Zealand?
New Zealand presents several top-notch whale watching locations, each with its distinctive allure and chances to encounter these magnificent beings.
Whale watching spots in New Zealand
Kaikoura
Perched on the eastern coast of the South Island, Kaikoura is a charming town set between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges. It stands out as one of the prime destinations in New Zealand for spotting whales. The town’s exceptional topography, featuring a deep underwater canyon, fosters a perfect habitat for rich marine biodiversity.
Kaikoura whale watching season: Humpback whales are visible from June to August, orcas frequent the area from October to April, and sperm whales along with dusky dolphins can be seen year-round.
Apart from sperm whales, those visiting Kaikoura may also encounter other species like humpback whales, pilot whales, and occasionally the rare blue whale.
Kaikoura is also home to a colony of New Zealand fur seals, often seen lounging on the rocks by the shoreline. Dusky dolphins are another highlight in Kaikoura, celebrated for their spirited acrobatics and interactive behavior with boats and swimmers. Kaikoura offers a variety of experiences, including whale watching boat excursions, where experienced guides share insights on the whales’ behaviors, the marine life inhabiting the deep Kaikoura canyon, and conservation initiatives.
Scenic flights or helicopter tours provide a stunning aerial view of marine wildlife and exquisite coastal scenery.
Humpback whale breaching in New Zealand ©Niels Thomas
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a favored tourist destination celebrated for its picturesque coastal views and historical importance. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bay hosts a diverse range of marine life.
On typical whale watching tours, guests may encounter not only bottlenose and common dolphins but also orcas, baleen whales like Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni), and occasionally even sei whales (Balaenoptera borealis).
A key attraction is the rare Hector’s dolphins (Cephalorhynchus hectori), often sighted in the region. These small, playful dolphins are unique to New Zealand and are recognizable by their striking black and white markings. Boat tours and kayak trips offer opportunities for close encounters with these delightful creatures, while highlighting the bay’s gorgeous islands, hidden coves, and unspoiled beaches.
Marlborough Sounds
Located at the northern tip of the South Island, Marlborough Sounds is a stunning area known for its complex system of fjords, bays, and hidden inlets. The calm and protected waters create an excellent habitat for dolphins, seals, and various other marine species.
Visitors to Marlborough Sounds may get the chance to spot several dolphin species, including common dolphins and pods of Dusky dolphins, as they ride the bow waves of boats or swim gracefully alongside kayaks. Fur seals