Because it's better watching swimmers being completely ignored by wild dolphins zipping past them in the sea, than freezing in the water while causing enough commotion to attract any passing sharks.

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The Whale Watch Company is run by a Maori sub-tribe and they have won many awards. It is not only phenomenal to see the whales in their natural envionment, but it is also hugely educational.

I saw lots of sperm whales, some killer whales and an albatross...and you are given plenty of time to observe the creatures.

Be warned though - if the weather is not right, the boats don't go out. It's safety first.

Railway Station Road, Kaikoura
www.whalewatch.co.nz

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Located a couple of minutes from the station in the heart of Kaikoura's (quiet) main street, and a stone's throw from all the shops and cafes. Friendly staff and quaintly charming (it's been converted from an old-fashioned hotel), extensive (free) video library and wonderful bbq/seating area out the back with hammocks overlooking the ocean - a wonderful place to stay.

26 West End, Kaikoura;
tel; 03 319 5141, or freephone 0800 423 574 (NZ only);
email: adelphilodge@xtra.co.nz
www.adelphilodge.co.nz

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Sonic on the Rocks in Kaikoura is the most atmospheric restaurant we have ever been to. Eating superb pizzas beside a log fire overlooking the moonlit still Pacific Ocean is an experience we'll never forget. In fact we loved everything about this wonderful town and stayed on long after we had seen the whales.

P0 Box 72
West End
Kaikoura
Phone: 03 319 6414
www.mtlyford.co.nz/SonicontheRocksRestaurantBar.htm

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As a child I always wanted to swim with dolphins. In fact, I even wrote to Jim to fix it for me. I always imagined being in a swimming pool in Disneyland swimming with dolphins. However, Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura made my dream come true in a much more natural way. I swam with a pod of about 800 dolphins in the open waters of New Zealand. I played chase with them and sang to them. The company are very conscious of the environment and as such only allow 13 swimmers per trip, so booking in advance is a must. It was the most memorable experience of my life and better than Jim could have done.

96 Esplanade, Kaikoura; tel: +64 3 319 6777; www.dolphin.co.nz/kaikoura

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This company takes you out into the bay to swim with dolphins, dropping you in their path. It's deep and cold but incredible. One tip: make as much noise and commotion as you can to keep them interested.

www.dolphin.co.nz/kaikoura

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