Kaikōura Whale Watching - 1hr 20min Ultimate Adventure
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.
Duration: 2 hours
- Likely to sell out
- Free cancellation
Timaru Shore Excursions, Private Tour, Aoraki Adventure
On your scenic drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park you will pass the famous cool aid looking Lake Pukaki and enjoy the view on New Zealands most beautiful road. Then the fun begins, trekking along the Hooker Valley Track at the base of Mount Cook, surrounded by mountains, glaciers, swing bridges and the flowing Hooker River. Hopefully you spot the native Kea bird too! Relax and enjoy the sights on your way back to Timaru, stopping at Lake Tekapo for the last look at the Southern Alps. Finish your day with a legendary Fairlie Bakehouse pie, fueling you up for a day in the mountains.
Duration: 7 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Hot Air Balloon Flights from Methven
Our Pilots will take you up to 9500 ft above the patchwork Canterbury Plains with spectacular Panoramic views west to the Mountains and east to the Pacific Ocean.
Launching from the famous foothills of Mt Hutt. The flight can only be described as exhilarating, gliding above the treetops and rising up to watch as the Canterbury Plains roll out in front of you. Then looking west you will see the majestic snow caped Southern Alps.
Duration: 3–4 hours
- Free cancellation
Whale Watching in Kaikoura - Ultimate Experience
Experience the thrill of whale watching from the sky with Wings Over Whales! This unique activity offers unparalleled views of the resident sperm whales, the largest toothed whales in the world. From above, you’ll have the chance to see the full scale of these majestic creatures, offering you epic aerial views of both the whales and the stunning surrounding scenery. Flying over the Kaikoura Whale Sanctuary allows you to cover vast areas, increasing your chances of spotting even more marine wildlife, including dusky dolphins.
As the longest-operating aerial whale watching company in Kaikoura, we’re committed to both safety and comfort. Our aircraft meet the highest safety standards, giving you peace of mind while you enjoy the ride.
At Wings Over Whales, we provide not only an adventure, but a warm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Book your whale watching flight today for a truly unforgettable experience in the skies above Kaikoura!
Duration: 30 min
- Free cancellation
Alpaca Farm Tour 20 Minutes from Christchurch - Meet Cute Alpacas
An interactive alpaca farm tour just 20 minutes north of Christchurch. Get hands-on as you feed, touch, and cuddle these friendly alpacas, including adorable babies when they're around. The owner shares entertaining stories and answers all your questions, making it a fun and informative experience. After the tour, visit the fibre shed, trophy room, and shop, or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and hang out with the alpacas again. Perfect for couples and family outings and a hit with air crew.
- One-hour interactive tour with alpacas, perfect for all ages
- Feed, cuddle, and hold baby alpacas (seasonal)
- Enjoy informative commentary from the owner
- Explore the fibre shed, trophy room, and lovely gardens after the tour
Duration: 1 hour
- Free cancellation
Family Friendly Hot Pools with Stunning Mountain Views in Methven
There’s fun and relaxation for all ages in the Discovery Pools:
• Float the lazy river 36 °C
• Discover the stars of Matariki in our cave 37 °C
• Brave the cold plunge
• Leap into the jump pool
• Enjoy the Aqua Play Zone
• Relax and enjoy mountain views from the observation pools
Duration: 2 hours
- Free cancellation
Private Seal Kayaking and Wildlife Tour in Kaikoura
An intimate privately guided wildlife experience around the Kaikoura peninsula on hands free pedal kayaks, allowing for the ultimate kayaking experience. Let us take you and your group around the rugged coastline encountering seals, penguins and seabirds with the jaw-dropping mountains as a backdrop. With expert local commentary along the way on indigenous local history, post colonial sealing and whaling and everything in between This immersive experience can be tailored to suit any traveller. Whether your special private tour is for a honeymooning couple, avid wildlife group or just a special family adventure, the team at Seal Kayak Kaikoura will make sure you create memories that last a lifetime
Duration: 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kaikoura Whale Watching - 45 Minute Ocean Safari
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.
Duration: 1 hr 15 min
- Likely to sell out
- Free cancellation
Arthurs Pass and Southern Alps Day Excursion from Port Lyttelton or Christchurch
This day excursion takes us across the Canterbury Plains around 50 miles to Porters Pass (just under 1000 m and higher than Arthurs Pass) and into the Southern Alps. Mountain lakes and wide braided rivers pass through ancient glacial valleys. After about 2.5 hours we reach Arthurs Pass National Park and its beech forests. We drive to the top of the pass and divide looking over into the rainforests of the West Coast, then stop in AP village here for lunch.Time permitting we have a quick tour of Christchurch on the return trip and a short stroll at Castle Hill.
Duration: 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kaikōura Whale Watching and Scenic Landing - 1hr Premier Tour
Experience Kaikōura’s longest and most immersive helicopter whale watching tour. This one-hour adventure begins with an unforgettable aerial journey over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and the underwater Kaikōura Canyon, a marine hotspot rich with wildlife due to nutrient-filled upwellings.
Spot a variety of whales, including Humpback whales, Blue whales, Southern Right whales, and the resident Sperm whales—the largest toothed whale in the world. Along the way, watch for playful Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals along the coastline.
The experience concludes with a breathtaking alpine landing atop the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, where you'll enjoy panoramic mountain and ocean views. Perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers, this Kaikōura helicopter tour offers the ultimate New Zealand nature experience.
Duration: 1 hour
- Likely to sell out
- Free cancellation
Helicopter trial Flight. Have a go at being the pilot
Rangiora airfield is the most efficient place in canterbury for learning to fly. There are no delays dealing with air traffic or controlled airspace and the mountains and other training areas are right on our doorstep. This means you can get straight into the fun stuff and maximize your time in the aircraft.
Safety is our number one priority and you will be flying with a highly qualified and experienced instructor who has taught dozens of people how to fly helicopters.
If you would like to do something a bit different we can easily customize this flight to include a mountain landing or a specific point of interest.
Duration: 1 hour
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Merino Farm Experience
Our Merino Farm Experience allows you to enjoy a slice of kiwi (New Zealand) rural life.
Be guided by the family owners and operators on the property since 1884.
See the sheep and sometimes our cattle roaming the fields.
Visit our woolshed and learn more about how we shear our sheep, Touch the super fine wool and see what the product gets made into.
Travel to the top of the farm for panoramic views of the southern alps and rivers.
Visit our house gardens, both Flowers and vegetables.
Meet our working dogs and pet sheep. Feed our friendly sheep, touch their wool and grab a selfie!
Private tours can be arranged by request.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
Akaroa Lavender Seasonal Guided Tour Experience
Experience a seasonal one-hour guided tour of the lavender fields from late November to mid-February. The story of our lavender farm is shared as you walk amongst 5,000 plus lavender plants.
The opportunity to purchase lavender products is available, as is the chance to try our famous Lavenade.
At the end of the tour, you are free to wander through the lavender fields and on a short track to a picnic area amongst the forest.
Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet.
The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme.
Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
Premium Adult's Only Hot Pools with Swim Up Bar & Restaurant
- Immerse yourself in nature as you soak your muscles in a solar-warmed hot pool
- Sit back and relax as you enjoy views of the Southern Alps
- Treat yourself to a beverage or local fare from the swim-up bar
- Relax in the quiet of the Tranquility Pools and enjoy an adult-only experience
- Explore the Tranquility Pools in comfort with a complimentary robe and towel
Duration: 2 hours
- Free cancellation
North Canterbury Helicopter Winery lunch
Now's the time to wine and dine in the stunning North Canterbury wine region of Waipara.
Enjoy a guided tour from your pilot en route, showcasing the best of the region. A four-course lunch with wine pairing is included, and weather permitting, let's stop off on the way home with a hilltop landing!
This can be customized to suit your needs, so if you need to stop off at another winery for some tasting or mix things up a bit, let's talk!
Duration: 3–4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Ridgeway Disk Golf Robot Shooting Axe Throw
Ridgeway Play isn’t just another activity spot; it’s an interactive playground for all ages, combining fun, competition, and outdoor adventure in a stunning rural setting.
Unleash Your Inner Warrior – Try your hand at axe throwing, robot target shooting, and disc golf, all in one place! Whether you're a first-timer or a pro, our experiences are designed for thrills, laughs, and friendly competition.
Perfect for Groups & Events – From team-building retreats to birthday bashes, stag/hen parties, and family getaways, Ridgeway Play is fully customizable to make your event truly special.
Ready to Play? – Book now and experience epic fun in the great outdoors at Ridgeway Play!
Duration: 4 hours
- Private tour
Southern alps scenic, Glaciers and mountains.
Explore the Canterbury High Country with spectacular panoramic views of the Southern alps.
Your pilot will personally guide your journey along the iconic braided rivers and patchwork tapestry of the Canterbury plains to a mountain landing which gives a chance to pause for a while, breath the fresh mountain air and take it all in.
You may even sight wild deer and chamois in the region.
*When seasons allow this will include a snow landing and can be customized should you want more time or to add activities.
Duration: 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Canterbury Helicopter Scenic Flight with Hilltop Landing
A ride on our 'magic carpet' will see you whisked away to a scenic hilltop landing with panoramic views.
Escape to peace and quiet and take a moment to reset in the fresh mountain air.
Our spots overlooking the Canterbury plains and coastline provide the perfect setting for a special celebration, proposal, romantic getaway, or just a few drinks with friends.
An optional picnic can be included. Talk to our team about organizing this or you are welcome to bring you own!
Duration: 1–2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Island Hills Station Private Nature Park, 3-Day Self-Guided Hike
Hike in a rugged back country setting without a heavy pack. Daily luggage transfers mean you only need to carry your lunch and the trails are designed to showcase huge mountain scenery without being over-strenous. The track suits those with medium fitness and capabilty, it is not suitable to unfit people or those carrying injuries. However there is always a way out if you feel unwell and you can be transported to the next camp. The Island Hills Station hosts Shaun and Haley are genuine rural kiwi's from farming background, they will get to know you and look after your wellbeing with hand hald radio communications for each group, evening weather updates and 24 hour contact. Those hot showers each day are a real treat!
Duration: 3 days
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Island Hills Station 2 Day Self Guided Hike with Meals
Hike in a rugged back country setting without a heavy pack. Daily luggage transfers mean you only need to carry your lunch and the trails are designed to showcase huge mountain scenery without being over-strenuous. All of your meal supplies and sleeping equipment are provided. The track suits those with medium fitness and capability, it is not suitable to unfit people or those carrying injuries. However there is always a way out if you feel unwell and you can be transported to the next camp. The Island Hills Station hosts Shaun and Haley are genuine rural kiwi's from farming background, they will get to know you and look after your wellbeing with hand held radio communications for each group, evening weather updates and 24 hour contact. Those hot showers each day are a real treat!
Duration: 2 days
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kaikōura Whale Watching - Whales and Cray Tails
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.
Duration: 2 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Oasis Cottage Gardens and Floristry Studio in Oxford, NZ
Discover the charm of Oasis Cottage, a private 5-acre country garden nestled near the foothills of the Southern Alps. This exclusive tour offers an intimate glimpse into a historic property, complete with seasonal blooms, formal gardens, and lush natural landscapes. Wander through the enchanting Blue Garden, explore the vegetable allée and orchard, and enjoy the tranquil duck pond with rural views and abundant birdlife.
What sets this tour apart is the unique opportunity to visit the Oasis Cottage floral studio and greenhouse. Learn about the art of growing and arranging cut flowers for stunning European-inspired bouquets. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or a lover of floral artistry, this personalised experience is designed to delight and inspire.
With breathtaking vistas of Mount Oxford as your backdrop and peaceful pathways to explore, this private tour provides an unforgettable retreat into nature. Book now to experience the beauty and creativity of Oasis Cottage.
Duration: 1 hour – 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Island Hills Station Private Nature Park, 2-Day Self Guided Hike
Hike in a rugged back country setting without a heavy pack. Daily luggage transfers mean you only need to carry your lunch and the trails are designed to showcase huge mountain scenery without being over-strenous. The track suits those with medium fitness and capabilty, it is not suitable to unfit people or those carrying injuries. However there is always a way out if you feel unwell and you can be transported to the next camp. The Island Hills Station hosts Shaun and Haley are genuine rural kiwi's from farming background, they will get to know you and look after your wellbeing with hand hald radio communications for each group, evening weather updates and 24 hour contact. Those hot showers each day are a real treat!
Duration: 2 days
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Arataki Conservation - our Journey to Protect our Whenua (land)
Experience the mahi on a one hour guided tour and learn about efforts to restore the land to its pre-European tunga (situation).
Experience a one-hour interactive guided tour of the of the property from April to November. Your experienced guide has been sharing the stories of Aotearoa with people from around the globe for many years.
At the end of the tour you are welcome to stay on and soak in the sounds, silence and sensations of our place.
The opportunity to purchase our lavender products is available, as is the chance to enjoy our famous bush coffee/tea and a "kiwi as" snack.
Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet.
The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme.
Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours.
The road is not suitable for camper-vans, please phone us to discuss alternative arrangements.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation