Our marine wonderland

Whale watching in Kaiko¯ ura a special Kiwi experience

The Kaiko¯ura Canyon, its walls up to 1200 metres high, would be an amazing sight, if it weren’t hidden under the sea.

What we can marvel at, though, are the many marine species, most notably whales, that are attracted by the nutrient-rich cold waters flowing through it.

Whale Watch Kaiko¯ura’s new 25m catamaran, Te Ao Ma¯rama, makes cruises out to see them comfortably accessible to wheelchair users who, in their own manual chairs, can enjoy the cabin, and the deck outside, for great views of the amazing creatures that feed there.

As well as the resident sperm whales, you might see visiting humpback, pilot, blue, and southern right whales; plus dolphins, seals and seabirds.

Why go?

Because it’s rare to be able to use the word ‘‘majestic’’ with absolute accuracy. The sperm whales frequently seen – some named individuals have been regulars for more than 20 years – grow to the same length as the boat.

To see a whale up close, resting on the surface for 15-20 minutes while it re-oxygenates, feels very special. When it dives again with the classic, spectacular lifting of its tail in a sparkling waterfall, it’s a guaranteed wow moment.

Then you will be distracted by hearing from the captain that another whale has been spotted, and you’re off chasing it – or there’s a huge pod of dusky dolphins leaping, cartwheeling and spinning, showing off around the boat to entertain you.

Or an albatross glides past, or an orca, or fur seals are spotted clambering up onto the rocks. The captain will do his best to position the boat so that, if you have to stay inside, you can see everything through the big windows. Screens also show informative videos.

Insider tip

If yours is a bulkier power-chair, there is a transfer chair and a helpful team ready to get you to a seat with excellent views.

Download the Whale Watch Kaiko¯ura app for information about all the marine species you might spot, including personal details about the local sperm whales.

On the way/nearby

For more fur seal action, drive to the viewing platform above the colony at O¯ hau Point north of town to watch basking adults and, through autumn and winter, their playful pups. Find out more at the admirably accessible Kaiko¯ura Museum in the giant cray pot building in town. For the adventurous, Kaiko¯ura Kayaks is able to welcome even quadriplegic paddlers. South Pacific Helicopters and Wings Over Whales offer bird’s-eye views of whales and spectacular scenery to mobility-impaired passengers.

How much?

The two-hour cruise costs $120 an adult, $60 a child (minimum 3 years) for the main Ocean Cabin.

The 12-person business-class Captain’s Cabin option (not accessible) is $180.

There’s an 80 per cent refund if you don’t see a whale – on average, you will see two. Cruises operate daily except Christmas Day.

Best time to go

Ideally, on a calm day. Visit whalewatch.co.nz.

Staying safe

New Zealand is under Covid-19 restrictions. Stay home and follow the instructions at covid19.govt.nz.