In addition to the whale and dolphin species that can be found, there are also a variety of other marine wildlife species that can be seen in the area.
These include:
- Seals: You can spot several species of seals, including the New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri), the Southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina), and the Hooker’s sea lion (Phocarctos hookeri). These seals can be found on the rocks and beaches around Kaikoura, and are often seen basking in the sun or swimming in the shallows.
- Fish: In Kaikoura you can also find a diverse range of fish species, including many that are found only in New Zealand waters. Some of the species include the red cod (Pseudophycis bachus), the blue cod (Parapercis colias), and the school shark (Galeorhinus galeus).
- Seabirds: During your visit you well encounter beautiful seabirds, including the albatross (Diomedeidae family), petrels (Procellariidae family), and shags (Phalacrocoracidae family). These birds can be seen soaring over the ocean or perched on the cliffs. I truly is a magnificent sight.
- Marine invertebrates: In the coastal waters squid, octopus, and crabs, can be found which are an important food source for many of the larger marine species found in the area.