Each year, during the winter, humpback whales migrate or visit our shores along the east coast of the South Island. Although we believe their numbers are increasing, actively protecting them for the long-term requires data!
The Great Kaikōura Whale Count 2024 will run from June 27 – July 10 and is set to be a wonder-full celebration of whales and our world. Each year, the Kaikōura Ocean Research Institute (KORI) conducts this wonderful event, with the help of locals and visitors alike! For a key part of the migratory season, KORI coordinates, organises and teaches volunteers, interns, staff and members to gaze out to sea and spot the whales for conservation.
This wonderful event takes a large amount of behind the scenes effort and we need your support! Help us continue to bring locals, Kiwis from around Aotearoa and even International visitors together to explore and experience this remarkable natural phenomenon, whilst gathering vital data to continue to protect them.
Ever seen a whale? Feel free to come and join us – they are out there! Every day (weather permitting) June 27 – July 10 there will be spotters looking for whales from the station, 10 – 12, 12 – 2 and 2 – 4. We have lead spotters to help, so no experience required. If you would like to sign up for a shift (or a few) please email gkwc2024@gmail.com with the dates and shifts you would like to participate. An introduction presentation and training session will be held at Kaikoura Museum on June 27 at 5 pm, all welcome. Free Festivities for everyone to celebrate the whales will also take place in Kaikoura Saturday June 29 and Sunday July 7. Stay tuned for more details.
Show your support today, donate, be a volunteer to count, join us for the festive activities during the count at local businesses around town and help us fundraise to keep this amazing event going each year!
All funds raised will go directly back into supporting the organisation, operations, staffing, volunteer coordination and overall facilitation of this amazing annual event – the Great Kaikōura Whale Count!
https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/great-kaikoura-whale-count
Kaikōura Ocean Research Institute Incorporated 