I hope this update finds you all well and ready for another great Kiwi summer! We have had glimpse of summer over the last few weeks with the days warming up, seeing families at the beach during the weekend and some fantastic sunsets in the late evening – although as I type this winter is trying to make a comeback with a dusting of fresh snow on the mountains this morning after a stormy day yesterday…
The first few weeks of November was a trying time for us with the sperm whales feeding long distances offshore and the transition of season’s hard weather wise! We were viewing a pod of transient whales that would move around throughout the day. At times these whales were feeding beyond our operating limits which unfortunately meant we had to cancel quite a few tours as our permits do not allow us to go pass these limits that are set in place. When this happens we will offer an Inshore Nature Tour (if conditions allow) where it is possible to view dolphins, NZ fur seals, various types of pelagic seabirds and whatever else we happen to come across.
On the 22nd of November however there was good news with the return of one of our summer resident sperm whales – Tiaki! Having him back enabled us to breathe a sigh of relief knowing that he is a whale that is pretty reliable and consistent with feeding closer inshore. We have been seeing Tiaki off our coastline for many years now – his name meaning the Guardian in Maori.
There were a few more surprises in the last week of November with a Humpback whale visiting us on the 24th & 27th as well as a pod of Orca and Pilot Whales on the 29th definitely a welcomed sight by all.
Other species of marine sighted at various times throughout the month include: dusky dolphins, hectors dolphins, blue sharks, blue penguins, sunfish and many different species of marine birds. We do our best to stop and view these other species when time and opportunity allows on our tours, always an added bonus when we can.
Hard to believe that December is now upon us, the countdown is on – not long until Christmas. The team at Whale Watch Kaikoura would like to thank all of you who have visited us this year, those who have followed us on facebook, twitter and you tube and shared with us your photos / videos and feedback. For those of you who are thinking about joining us in the near future please remember to book well in advance and if you have any questions at all feel free to email me.
The team at Whale Watch Kaikoura would like to wish you all a Meri Kirihimete – Merry Christmas and all the best over the upcoming festive season.
Lisa Bond
Captain @ Whale Watch Kaikoura
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