What time of year can you see whales in New Zealand?

What time of year can you see whales in New Zealand?

The weather in New Zealand is often best during the months of October – March, so if you prefer the warmer kind of days then whale watching during the NZ summer is a good bet.

When can you see orcas in New Zealand?

Orca can be found around the coast of New Zealand (including estuaries and harbours) being seen off the Kaikōura Coastline generally between the months of November – March usually at least 2-3 times a month. These majestic creatures can be found travelling in tight knit pods of between 6 – 20 individuals.

Where can I see dolphins in North Island?

These places are best for swim with dolphins in North Island:

• Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands Day Tours.
• Orca Wild Adventures.
• Dolphin Seafaris.
• Diveworks Dolphin and Seal Encounters.
• Everything New Zealand.

Where is the best place to whale watch?

Top Whale-Watching Destinations

• Vancouver Island, British Columbia.
• Virginia Beach.
• Long Island, New York.
• Cape May, New Jersey.
• Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.
• Coastal Waters off Florida.
• Bar Harbor, Maine.
• Provincetown, Massachusetts.

Are there orcas in New Zealand?

Orca are the most widely distributed mammal on earth with the exception of humans. Its distribution is patchy however and it is more commonly seen at the poles and in cooler waters. Orca can be found all throughout New Zealand’s coastline.

Is it safe to swim with orcas?

Is it safe to swim or dive with Orcas? Yes, however, you have to be very cautious, because they are still wild animals and need attention all the time. Orcas owe their name “killer whale” to the early whalers Because they apparently attacked and killed all other animals, even the largest whales.

Is it legal to swim with orcas?

In many countries and states, it is illegal to approach too closely to orca, either by boat and other watercraft or when swimming. Orca are top ocean predators and the largest apex predator to roam the earth since the dinosaurs and so they should be treated respectfully.

What is the difference between Hector’s dolphin and Maui’s dolphin?

Differences between Hector’s and Māui dolphin Hector’s and Māui dolphins may look identical, but they are physically and genetically different. Māui dolphins have very slightly larger skulls than Hector’s dolphins and a longer, wider rostrum or snout. Genetic methods are used to tell the subspecies apart.

Are there pink dolphins in New Zealand?

According to whatisthiscreature.com, April is the most common month to see them in New Zealand as their breeding season begins. It says the only other country they are found is Slovakia. Delphinus delphis rosea, commonly known as the pink dolphin, rarely visit Southland’s shores.

Are you more likely to see whales in the morning or afternoon?

People always want to know if whale watching is better in the morning or the afternoon. To be completely honest there is really no ‘better time. ‘ As a general rule, the ocean is calmer in the mornings.

What time of day are whales most active?

The best overhead light is from 11 am – 3 pm, for beautiful blue waters. The calmest sea conditions tend to be before noon and towards sunset. The whales are active throughout the day and their behavior changes as groups of whales encounter each other.

Where are the best places to see whales in New Zealand?

The most important regions on the Northern Island are Hauraki Gulf in Auckland, Bay of Islands in the north and Bay of Plenty in the east where a lot of different kinds of dolphins can be watched all year long. Bryde’s whales are also residents in Hauraki Gulf and can be seen during most of the tours.

Where to see whales in Kaikoura?

In Kaikoura you can mostly meet sperm whales, which live here all year long in steady groups. They can be watched by boat or from the air by helicopter or ultralight. In front of Akaroa, you can mostly find dolphins, among them the Hector dolphin, which only lives here.

Can you see whales in the Bay of Islands?

It is also possible to see long-finned pilot whales, humpback whales and even blue whales. Find out more in 7 Whale and Dolphin Species to See in Auckland. Location: Paihia, Bay of Islands. Check out our complete guide to the Bay of Islands. © Pixabay.

Where can I swim with dolphins in New Zealand?

Swim with dolphins at Akaroa Harbour, where Hector’s dolphins—found only in New Zealand—visit the waters of the Banks Peninsula. Cruising the sheltered harbor by jet-powered catamaran so you can swim up close, learn from the highly trained crew how to interact safely with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins.