Wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to the exquisite islands of New Zealand, renowned for their diverse marine life. A visit to this remarkable country unveils a plethora of species including whales, porpoises, and dolphins, captivating tourists from all corners of the globe. This prominent feature serves as a significant attraction for visitors worldwide.
Whale-watching spots in New Zealand offer a remarkable and unique chance to connect with the natural world, regardless of your interests. Explore these exceptional locations and immerse yourself in the ocean’s wonders in one of the world’s most breathtaking countries.
These are the greatest sites to observe whales in New Zealand if you’re seeking a wildlife encounter in one of the most stunning countries on Earth.
Kaikoura:
The only spot on Earth where you can tour and observe huge sperm whales is Kaikoura. Moreover, they are visible year-round. While you can enjoy whale-watching excursions by boat, you can also take an aircraft ride for an exclusive aerial perspective of the whales. While whale watching in Kaikoura, you’ll probably spot dolphins and fur seals, among other marine creatures. Each of these is drawn to the continental shelf around the Kaikoura Canyon region.
Hauraki Gulf:
Look for whales directly from Auckland City. The Hauraki Gulf, a body of water on Auckland’s east coast, is a perfect site to start looking for our flippered friends because orcas are known to frequent the harbor. On the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari, common dolphins and Bryde’s whales are the most common species sighted, though you may see four or five distinct species in a single trip.
Bay Islands:
The Bay of Islands does not provide cruises specifically for whale viewing. However, whales do visit the bay frequently. Watch for orcas and Bryde’s whales on boats and kayaks in the bay between May and July. You can also find blue, humpback, and long-finned pilot whales here.
Marlborough Sounds (Picton):
The Marlborough Sounds are home to various marine mammals, which should come as no surprise given its location along a migration path that connects the North and South Islands. Thank goodness Marlborough Sounds is no longer a major whaling hub, and whales can now be seen safely. Baleen whales are most visible in June and July when they migrate across the Cook Strait. There are also occasional reports of orcas spotted in the Marlborough Sounds with whale island tours.
Whitakane:
For several opportunities to see animals, take a boat from Whakatane to the appropriately called Whale Island/Moutohorā or around the active marine volcano White Island. Because of its popularity as a diving location, the ocean surrounding White Island is very appealing to marine life. Take a boat cruise from Whakatane to see whales and dolphins. On the other hand, Whakatane’s shoreline occasionally provides views of orca, minke, and pilot whales.
Conclusion
This concludes our overview of whale watching in New Zealand and the best places to see whales there. So, if you are planning a trip to New Zealand, and wondering where to look for whales, make sure you aren’t missing out on visiting these places.
