7 Safari Tours in New Zealand Worth Booking

1.Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,790 reviews · from $135Our pick

Cruise from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour on a 4.5-hour eco safari in Hauraki Gulf to spot whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and seabirds.

“Brilliant trip. We were fortunate enough to see lots of dolphins and also one whale, but even without that, the trip was educational, inspiring and enjoyable. The team’s knowledge was excellent and they informed us on the research they do and the alliance they have with other charities and companies.”

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2.Seal Coast Safari – Exclusive access to Wellington’s secret coast

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 294 reviews · from $121Top rated

Small-group 4WD safari from Otari Bush to Wellington’s fur seal colony, with private farmland views, snacks, and local guides.

“This was a very nice small group tour. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and personable. He gave a running commentary of where we traveled that was quite interesting. Pick up and drop off was easy and convenient.”

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3.Half Day Seal Coast Safari

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 245 reviews · 3h 30m · from $116

Wellington’s Half Day Seal Coast Safari by 4WD: Otari native forest, Terawhiti farmland views, and Tongue Point fur seals.

“Chris was an absolute delight filled with knowledge and stories and seeing the seals was amazing 😍”

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4.4WD Safari and Guided Sea-Kayaking Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 120 reviews · 4h 30m · from $80Best value

Akaroa 4WD safari plus guided sea-kayaking at Pohatu Flea Bay, cliffs, caves, wildlife, and gear included for $80.

“One of the highlights of our trips!! The day was windy and Ben was very aware of conditions in keeping us safe! The seals were cute and the penguins adorable! With the possibility of weather not allowing us to go I also feel that Ben made sure the experience was worthwhile!”

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5.Kaikoura Whale Watching – 45 Minute Ocean Safari

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 39 reviews · from $511

Fly 45 minutes above Kaikōura Canyon, spot whales and dolphins from the air, then land at a remote coastal site with guidance and gear included.

“Perfect pilot. Nice weather. Good photo's from South Pacific Helicopters. Blue whale below the heli as a huge beest into the water”

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6.Glenorchy Island Safari, Self-drive option

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 19 reviews · from $96

Private kayaking from Glenorchy to Pigeon Island for a quiet wildlife sanctuary visit, plus tea breaks and Southern Alps views.

“Amanda was a fantastic tour guide and has excellent knowledge to share! We had a great time kayaking with her and thoroughly enjoyed this experience!!”

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7.Glenorchy Island Safari departing Queenstown

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 6 reviews · from $114

Kayak from Lake Wakatipu to Pigeon Island, a wildlife sanctuary near Glenorchy, with tea, a short walk, and chances to spot weka.

“Amazing views and the host was great, the car ride to glenorchy was a good opportunity to see more of Queenstowns scenery and the kayaking was easy to pick up!”

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