On a motorboat off the lush coast of Kaikoura, massive albatross with snow-white bellies and charcoal-grey backs land in the water just feet from your boat. Before long, they’re joined by petrels, shearwaters, shags, and terns, arriving at your bird-watching tour with a friendly squawk.

Your day starts before you even hit the water. Enjoy picturesque views of pastoral landscapes and rolling green hills as you travel by bus from Christchurch to Kaikoura. On your way to the marina, take advantage of photo opportunities at the craggy shores where resident fur seals make their home. After you’ve snapped a few pictures, climb back on your bus to the sounds of seals barking goodbye.

Arriving at the marina, a rugged boat with a semi-enclosed cabin picks you up and whisks you to the most diverse local bird-watching habitats. As your boat slows to a stop, watch as the distant shapes of seabirds take flight and approach your vessel, landing with a rush of wings and a splash of seawater. The onboard crew ensures that you get the closest views possible, tossing irresistible bait to the hungry beaks of your new visitors.

Snap photographs of massive albatross primping their feathers and blue-grey petrels bobbing in the waves as local wildlife experts share information and help you identify each bird that pays you a visit.

When the memory card on your camera is nearly full, head back to shore and look over your pictures before you catch your ride back to Christchurch.