Find out about some of the operators our Travel Ambassdors met on the journey. Feature Host Whale Watch Kaikoura Lisa Bond Sharing the experience of a special encounter with Kaikoura’s stunning dusky dolphins with all our visitors, is a precious which we truly relish and feel privileged to offer. The inspiration that we see and feel from others enjoying the beauty of nature first hand, is pure magic. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand's only marine-based whale watching company offering manuhiri (visitors) an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale all year round. When time and opportunity permit we can also view dolphins, seals and a wide variety of marine birds that also call Kaikoura home as well as the many migratory visitors we have pass by our coastline throughout the year. I have worked at Whale Watch Kaikoura for the past 23 years, during this time I have performed a variety of different roles – starting as a guide out at sea hosting our manuhiri from far and wide and then having the privilege of being a captain – doing my best to show everyone a ‘whale of a time’. Over the last 11 years I have developed a passion for marketing and now represent Whale Watch Kaikoura both within NZ and overseas. No matter the role I have been in, my kaupapa (principle) hasn’t changed in that I love to extend manaakitanga (respect, generosity and care for others) in all I do. It is very much a gift to be able to showcase the taonga (treasure) we have off our coastline recognising that we are visitors to the world of the whales and as a company respecting that gift at all times. Instagram: @whalewatchkaikoura Christchurch/Canterbury Operators Christchurch Punting Jamie Storie, Operations Manager Punting on the Avon is a relaxing and eco-friendly attraction, and it’s a great environment to work in. Introducing guests to the wonderous lifeblood of Christchurch which is the Otakaro/Avon river is a privilege that I hope will continue for years to come. Instagram: @puntingontheavon Christchurch Tram Mark Small, Operations Manager Our Christchurch Tram drivers are often some of the first people our customers meet in Christchurch. We relish our roles as unofficial ambassadors of the city and enjoy sharing the story of the revitalised city centre with our customers. Instagram: @christchurchtram Christchurch Gondola Mark Forster, Operations Manager We are privileged to work in a stunning location at the Christchurch Gondola: sharing the sumptuous views from atop an inactive volcano with guests from all over world is truly a pleasure. Instagram: @christchurchgondola The Heritage Christchurch Astrid Hay, T.H.E Resident Manager Heritage Christchurch is known for its spacious luxurious suites and superb facilities; however, it is our people that set us apart from the rest. We consider ourselves privileged guardians of one of Christchurch’s most beautiful properties and Manaakitanga is at the core of everything we do as a team, every day, through T.H.E Heritage Experience. Instagram: @heritage_hotels Hapuku Lodge Instagram: @hapukulodge Dolphin Encounter Lynette Burman, Business Manager Sharing the experience of a special encounter with Kaikoura’s stunning dusky dolphins with all our visitors, is a precious which we truly relish and feel privileged to offer. The inspiration that we see and feel from others enjoying the beauty of nature first hand, is pure magic.