Top 7 Adventure Tours in Kaikoura

Destination: Kaikoura.
Embark on the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter whale watching tour for a unique wildlife and scenic adventure. Fly over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where you’ll spot majestic marine life including sperm whales, humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and other migratory species. The helicopter’s manoeuvrability offers incredible views of the whales and dolphins, with close-up photo opportunities you can’t get from boats. Keep an eye out for playful Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals near the shore. Continue the adventure north along the rugged Kaikōura coastline and land in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. From this exclusive mountaintop location, enjoy 360-degree views of Kaikōura Peninsula, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains—an unforgettable experience for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
Known For: Kaikoura Adventure Tours, Kaikoura Helicopter Tours, Kaikoura Small Group.
Duration: Around 2 hours.

Destination: Kaikoura.
Indulge in a truly exclusive Kaikōura helicopter tour that combines breathtaking aerial views with a premium gin tasting experience. Relax and enjoy a scenic flight around the Kaikōura Peninsula and the stunning Seaward Kaikōura mountain ranges, taking in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline from above. Your pilot will guide you through the Kaikoura landscape before landing at our exclusive hilltop location. There, you'll meet Justine Schroder, owner of Mt Fyffe Distillery, who will pour you a tasting of her award-winning small batch London dry gin. Hear the story behind the creation of her distinctive blends, crafted using botanicals sourced from their family farm and the local Kaikōura environment. This Kaikōura gin tasting tour includes a complimentary 375ml bottle of Woolshed Gin or Shearwater Gin, perfect for continuing the experience at home. Please note: PRICE IS PER TRIP – Up to 5 passengers, not per adult.
Known For: Kaikoura Food & Drink, Kaikoura Adventure Tours, Kaikoura Helicopter Tours, Kaikoura Zombie, Kaikoura Private Sightseeing Tours.
Duration: Around 1 hour and a half.

Destination: Kaikoura.
PRIVATE TOUR – Price is for up to 5 passengers, not per person. This exclusive helicopter experience is the only one of its kind in New Zealand, developed in collaboration with a local Marine Mammal Biologist from the Kaikōura Marine Mammal Foundation. You'll journey over the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where whales reside close to the Kaikōura coast. Throughout the flight, your onboard marine biologist will share expert insights into the region’s marine life and ecosystem, offering a deeply educational and engaging experience. Next, we land to pick up a fresh crayfish lunch from the famous Karaka Lobster Café, which you'll enjoy at a remote mountain location with panoramic views of the ocean and the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. To conclude the tour, your pilot will guide you over dramatic landscapes shaped by the 2016 Kaikōura Earthquake, highlighting fault lines, diverted rivers, and massive landslides—bringing both natural beauty and geological history to life.
Known For: Kaikoura Adventure Tours, Kaikoura Helicopter Tours, Kaikoura Zombie, Kaikoura Zombie Slice, Kaikoura Private Sightseeing Tours.
Duration: Around 2 hours and a half.

Destination: Kaikoura.
Cruise down the Kaikoura coastline to our exclusive hill top landing site where an ATV ( All-Terrain Vehicle) will be waiting to take you on a guided tour through a private farm. This adventure will take you to the Haumiri bluffs (Spyglass point) where you will get the opportunity to take in the incredible scenery. Upon completion of your trip you will return to Kaikoura via vehicle.
Known For: Kaikoura Small Group, Kaikoura ATV Tours, Kaikoura Adventure Tours, Kaikoura 4WD Tours, Kaikoura Audio Guides, Kaikoura Cultural Tours, Kaikoura Extreme Sports, Kaikoura Helicopter Tours, Kaikoura Half-day Tours.
Duration: Around 3 hours.

Destination: Kaikoura.
Spend quality time with one of the world's most exotic animals. You trek with your own llama, who walks on a lead, at your side, while carrying your belongings in saddle bags. Llama are highly intelligent, clever animals = requiring that you get to know them (and work with them) to successfully complete your trek. The subtle 'bond' you form with your llama companion is highly rewarding. You experienced guide will help you get to know your woolly companion. Your guide will also share a range of local Kaikoura history and information, including the extraordinary effects of the 2016 earthquake (the largest ever recorded in New Zealand) You do not ride your llama.
Known For: Kaikoura Small Group, Kaikoura Walking Tours, Kaikoura Nature and Wildlife Tours, Kaikoura Adventure Tours, Kaikoura Half-day Tours, Kaikoura Nature Walks, Kaikoura Private and Luxury, Kaikoura Hiking Tours, Kaikoura Pack Animal Tours.
Duration: Around 3 hours and a half.

Destination: Kaikoura.
Enjoy a 1hr Taster Llama Trek - along the Kowhai River banks and riverbed. Surrounded throughout by protected native woodland, and abundant wildlife.
Known For: Kaikoura Adventure Tours, Kaikoura Pack Animal Tours, Kaikoura Nature and Wildlife Tours, Kaikoura Walking Tours, Kaikoura Nature Walks, Kaikoura Hiking Tours, Kaikoura Small Group, Kaikoura Excellent Quality.
Duration: Around 1 hour and a half.

Destination: Kaikoura.
Experience the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter tour and witness New Zealand’s incredible marine life from above. Fly over the renowned Kaikōura Canyon to spot Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, or even Blue whales, depending on the season. This extended scenic flight gives you more time to enjoy whale sightings and coastal views. Spot Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals as you cruise along the shoreline. Land at a remote site only accessible by South Pacific Helicopters, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. This unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Known For: Kaikoura Adventure Tours, Kaikoura Helicopter Tours, Kaikoura Small Group, Kaikoura Excellent Quality.
Duration: Around 1 hour and a half.