New Zealand is internationally recognised as one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Kaikōura is the whale-watching capital of the country and the best place to see giant sperm whales up close.

Whale Watch Kaikōura offers incredible whale-watching tours that take you out on the water to spot whales in their natural habitat. You might also see New Zealand fur seals, pods of dusky dolphins and the endangered wandering albatross. Depending on the season, you may also see migrating humpback, pilot, blue, and southern right whales. Kaikōura often hosts the orca - and is home to the world's smallest and rarest dolphin - the Hector's dolphin.

Tours depart multiple times per day, but it's usually better to go whale watching first thing in the morning when the ocean is calmer and the whales come out to feed. Because of this, the first tours at 7:45 am book up very quickly, so if you want to start the day early, you'll need to book your slot as soon as possible!

How much does it cost?

This is an experience of a lifetime so I highly recommend factoring it into your budget ahead of time!

• Adults: $175

• Children: $60 (minimum age is 3)