SEAL SWIM KAIKOURA

For every dozen seals basking on the peninsula, the chances are there are several slipping into the water for a swim, a feed or to take a closer look at passersby. Watching a seal glide through the water is mesmerizing. Seal Swim Kaikōura's 2.5-hour boat trip makes the most of the shallow waters just off the peninsula, the home of the most prolific seal colony in the area. The seals are used to visitors and are often happy to shimmy off the rocks to display their aquatic moves. Abide by the respectful principles; swimmers are expected to wait for the seals to come to them and stick to the 3m rule — this is seal turf, after all. Buoyant, blubber-like wetsuits and snorkel gear allow swimmers to comfortably watch the seals above and below the surface. The unforgettable experience offers a peek into the seal's wild habitat; swimmers will likely never look at a porky pinniped the same way. 58 West End, Kaikōura. (03) 319 6182, sealswimkaikoura.co.nz