For a country of islands surrounded by the beautiful vast Pacific Ocean, it’s no surprise many of the best activities in New Zealand take place in the water. What adds a little magic to those moments? Dolphins. New Zealand waters are a great spot to get up close and personal with these majestic sea mammals. Whether you choose to swim with them, take a boat tour for sightings or kayak alongside them, here are the best places to see dolphins in New Zealand. This truly is a must-do experience.
1. Akaroa
A 90-minute drive from Christchurch, Akaroa is truly a hidden gem. In addition to the scenic views of rugged cliffs and volcanic features, this is the only place in the world where you’ll experience the wonder that is Hector’s dolphins. The smallest and rarest species of dolphins. Akaroa Dolphins boast a 98% chance of seeing dolphins. If you don’t, you can cruise with them again free of charge. You can’t get much better than that. Check out Swimming With Dolphins, and enjoy a hot chocolate and biscuits on board to add to your sweet experience. In Akaroa, you may also be treated with other marine life sightings like seals, yellow-eyed and blue penguins and albatross.
2. Kaikoura
A 2.5-hour drive from Christchurch, you’ll find this coastal town that is one of the best places to see dolphins in New Zealand. Dusky dolphins are the species you’ll encounter and see all year round in Kaikoura. You’ll be in for a treat, as these dolphins are known for their talented aerobatic skills and fun behaviours. Kaikoura Kayaks is the only company in the area that can get you out onto the water in this way. Swim with or watch dolphins in their world with Dolphin Encounter. Imagine swimming with these friendly and sociable creatures!
3. Doubtful Sound / Patea
You’ll feel like you’re travelling to a magical new world when visiting Doubtful Sound / Patea. This is another of the best places to see dolphins in New Zealand. In order to get to this hidden gem, you must take a boat departing from Lake Manapouri. The breathtaking fiord, in the South West of New Zealand, is home not only to bottlenose dolphins but seals, penguins and more. If you’re wanting a remarkable overnight cruise in Fiordland to spot the wildlife that calls this area home, check out Real NZ. Can’t decide how exactly you want to see these aquatic mammals here? Real NZ offer day cruises and overnight experiences.
4. Goat Island
A popular tourist spot to immerse oneself in marine life. Only an 80-minute drive from Auckland, dive, snorkel or jump on the glass bottom boat to experience the abundant wildlife present here. Hire all your gear from Goat Island Dive or grab a ticket at Glass Bottom Boat. Either way, you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical island! Bottlenose dolphins often pass the coast and have spent days interacting with snorkelers here. Keep an eye out for common dolphins that may be spotted a bit further away while they migrate in their pods. The ultimate aquatic adventure.
5. Bay of Islands
A three-hour drive north of Auckland you’ll find this stunning enclave. With its 144 islands and sheltered waters, it’s one of the best places to see dolphins in New Zealand. Locals love to observe the dolphins living here, playing and feeding in their natural habitat. The area offers a myriad of boating and swimming tours. Check out Dolphin Cruises to embark on a cruise through the famous and magnificent Hole in the Rock rock formation. It’s all part of the journey to spot intelligent bottlenose and common dolphins.
