Swimming with dolphins

The waters off Kaikōura are home to hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dusky dolphins, known for their acrobatic leaps and interactive nature. Several local operators run tours that allow you to get into the water with these intelligent creatures. Wetsuits and snorkelling gear are provided to keep you warm and allow you to observe the dolphins as they swim around you.

The experience is carefully managed to ensure the welfare of the dolphins, with interactions happening on their terms. Even if you choose not to swim, watching the dolphins from the boat is an incredible spectacle in itself. The guides are experienced in finding the pods and will share fascinating information about the dolphins' behaviour and the local marine environment.

Allow half a day for Swimming with dolphins, plus drive time from wherever you spend the night before. Distances in Kaikōura look short on a map, but winding roads, roadworks and campervan speeds stretch them, so build this stop around an unhurried day rather than squeezing it between long drives. Best time to go: This activity is available year-round, weather and sea conditions permitting. Check road conditions and seasonal ferry timetables before you lock in dates. It suits travellers who want to slow down and see Kaikōura properly rather than tick it off. Send your plan to an Acrossnz advisor and we'll check the timing works.