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
Updates
I've been out with Whale Watch Kaikoura a number of times, and have discovered the best way to ensure a trip is to book on the first boat of the day. Its very early morning, but it generally has the most luck at getting out, and if it doesnt you have the whole rest of the day to either get onto another boat or do something else.
Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
Search Been there
