Dolphin · New Zealand
Where to see dolphins in New Zealand
About this list
A common trap when looking for places to see dolphins in New Zealand is a trip sold as if the sighting were certain. Maptlantis lists only operators that name the dolphin as a target species, 3 of them. Places that only mention a chance sighting are left out. Regions on record: Akaroa and Northland. Encounters are split into swimming, snorkeling and boat-based watching. Two "dolphin tours" can differ completely in rules and price when one watches from the boat and the other puts you in the water. All 3 operators on this list publish prices on their own channels, so you can compare them directly. Estimated prices are not shown. Most listings give the season as Oct–Apr. Boats can still be canceled for sea and weather conditions, so check before you book. No operator can guarantee a wildlife sighting, and rules on approach distance and in-water permits differ by country.
3 listed operators
New Zealand · Akaroa
Black Cat Cruises
SwimmingIsland hopping & boat tripsMarine life encounters- Season
- Oct–Apr
- Price
- Adults NZ$250 · Children NZ$220
- Checked
- Official source
New Zealand · Kaikōura
Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura
SnorkelingSwimmingMarine life encounters- Season
- Year-round
- Price
- Adults (15+) NZ$245
- Checked
- Official source
New Zealand · Northland
Explore Group Bay of Islands
SnorkelingSwimmingIsland hopping & boat trips- Season
- Oct–Apr
- Price
- Adults NZD 170 · Children NZD 85 · Family NZD 425
- Checked
- Official source
Dolphin season
Dolphins in other countries
Activities in New Zealand
Frequently asked questions
Where can you see dolphins in New Zealand?
3 operators name the dolphin as a target species. Main regions: Akaroa and Northland.
Do you have to get in the water to see dolphins?
Formats on record: swimming, snorkeling and boat-based watching. Boat-based watching stays on the boat; snorkeling, swimming and freediving put you in the water. Some countries ban getting in the water altogether, so check the format in the program details.
When is dolphin season?
Most listings give the season as Oct–Apr. Boats can still be canceled for sea and weather conditions, so check before you book.
Will I definitely see them?
No. Dolphins are wild animals, and whether you meet them depends on their movements and the sea. Maptlantis does not use wording that promises a sighting, and cancellation and refund terms follow each operator's policy.