Whale sighting company nominated in tourism awards

A whale watching tour operator favoured by gap year students in New Zealand has been nominated for a prestigious award.

Whale Watch Kaikoura has been put on the shortlist for the 'best marine environment' category in the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards, with winners being announced in London on November 11th.

The nature tourism firm is based on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island and offers gap year students close encounters with local marine life, including giant sperm whales.

Whale Watch, which was founded in 1987, has been a key factor in turning around Kaikoura's declining economy thanks to investment in local accommodation, restaurants and galleries.

Earlier this week, New Zealand prime minister and minister of tourism John Key was on hand to launch the company's fifth vessel, while a new marina has also been built to help improve the facilities which are offered to gap year visitors.

Whale Watch Kaikoura has previously picked up numerous tourism prizes, including the education and training gong from the Australian Effects and Animation Festival Awards.

( Last Updated: 2009-11-06 09:58:15)