Dolphin Encounter has a proven track record established over more than 30 years of operating for being a well-respected and environmentally responsible eco-tour operator.
We are confident that we can introduce you to the world of the dusky dolphins and know that you will leave Kaikoura with a renewed sense of awe of the pristine natural environment. The grace, beauty and curiosity of these most sociable and acrobatic dolphins will take your breath away! Either of the tour options we offer whether it is swimming with the dolphins or watching the dolphins are renowned as world class experiences.
The dusky dolphin (lagenorhynchus obscurus) belongs to a group known as cetaceans and includes all whales, dolphins and porpoises. The word cetacean is derived from the Latin, cestus (a large sea animal) and the Greek, ketos (sea monster).
Currently there are 81 recognised species of cetacean comprising of 11 species of baleen whale and 70 species of toothed whales which includes all dolphins and porpoises. The dolphin family known as delphinidae, is made up of 33 different members.

Dusky Dolphins
Kaikoura's special dolphin species is the dusky dolphin.

Hectors Dolphins
The Hector’s dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori), is endemic to the coastal waters of New Zealand.

Common Dolphins
While Common Dolphin sightings are mainly in the summer, winter sightings are not uncommon.

Orca
Orca (Orcinus orca) or killer whales, travel through the coastal waters of Kaikoura intermittently throughout the year, but particularly during the warmer months of September through to April.