One of South Island’s most exciting experiences is a tour to see its most famous residents: the orcas. About eighty of these glossy, black and white marine mammals, also called killer whales, live in the waters off the coastline. Although they live in these waters year-round, the whales are most readily seen between May and October. Extensive orca research has been done over the years, and as a result, all of the whales have been identified and named, and whale watching companies follow guidelines to ensure the whales are not threatened by tour boats. The tours range from high-speed Zodiac adventures to relaxing cruises on yachts. Often, other marine mammals, such as grey whales, porpoises, seals, dolphins, sea lions, and a multitude of birds, are also spotted. Guided kayaking tours are another fabulous way to see marine wildlife. |
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