I’ve always wanted to go whale-watching, and I’ve always hoped to travel to another country to see them. And last year, I got to see those whales up close in a completely different environment than I’m used to. It was exhilarating. Everyone should have a lifetime to-do list, and slowly but surely, I’m checking off at least one big adventure for each new year.
Natasha continues her story:
Whale-watching started for me when I was a kid. My parents traveled quite a bit, as they worked in the travel industry, and they took me with them on occasion. But the one place we never seemed to get to was New Zealand. Everyone talked about it like it was a hidden gem, a paradise-like place.
When traveling to another country, you want to do thorough research to ensure you’re getting the best deals. After all, if you’re like me, you’re on a budget. So, you need to get as much information as possible. After narrowing down my choices, I decided to book a whale-watching tour in Kaikoura, which is on the south island of New Zealand, along the east coast.
Kaikoura is a beautiful town — and not only do you get the beach here, you get the mountains as well. These mountains, known as the Seaward Kaikouri, are part of the Southern Alps. They offer plenty of hiking opportunities, but even if you’re no backpacker, enjoy them as part of the beach scenery, and don’t forget your camera.
The tour for whale-watching in this part of the world was amazing. And not only did I see whales, I saw dolphins as well. This is the perfect spot for nature lovers, because you have a chance to experience so much in such in short time. It’s all here.
I chose to go on this trip in March, when the average temperature was about 65 degrees F. Make sure you check the temps for the month you choose, and dress accordingly.
On my tour, I chose to go on an airplane ride with Wings Over Whales, and it was breathtaking! For 30 whole minutes, you literally fly over the water and see sperm whales, humpback whales, and blue whales, along with dolphins and orca. The sight of all these beautiful creations takes your breath away as you zip past them. In addition to all this, we flew over New Zealand fur seals sunbathing on rocks, and we saw former archeological sites of the ancient Maori people.
I can’t recommend this tour enough. So start your research and find the best company that’s right for your needs — one that brings you to Kaikouri. Take advantage of all that’s here, and then use the rail system, boat ferries, or planes to whisk you away to another tourism spot, which just might have more whale-watching opportunities for you.
Everyone needs to step out on an adventure sometime,
so just do what I did.
Make your list and make your dreams happen.
Go whale-watching!Accommodation for Women Travellers in New Zealand
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Don’t worry abo9ut the weather the best time I did this was winter – freezing cold but absolutely amazing – we just wore every bit of clothes we could fit on!