A new film shows how New Zealand has come up with a way to protect not only whales but human communities too.

The documentary "What to do about Whales?" features the town of Kaikoura as one of four communities worldwide developing whale watching as a viable alternative to killing whales.

The hour-long film created by filmmakers, New Zealand-born Kate Clere and her husband Michael McIntyre, looks at the development of whale watching in New Zealand, Iceland, the USA and Japan.

"With whales still under threat around the world, it's becoming increasingly clear that whale watching may provide the answer to their protection," said Ms Clere.

"As more people learn to appreciate whales, we are beginning to understand that they are worth more alive than dead."

"What to do about Whales?" tells the story how global interest in whales has put Kaikoura on the map. Whale watching has transformed it from a dying town into a vibrant community enticing visitors from all over the world.

The Kaikoura coastline is a Mecca for watching marine mammals and nearly half the worldís 76 species of whales and dolphins have been seen offshore.

"Whale Watch Kaikoura is now the biggest employer in town and it's given our community a whole lot of 'mana' (respect) where we can lift our heads high when we walk down the street," said Wally Stone, Chairman of Whale Watch Kaikoura.

As many as five whale watch vessels push off daily from Kaikoura. A popular tourist activity, sailings operate year round weather permitting, so pre-booking is essential.

Christchurch is the first city to see the film ahead of a tour planned throughout Australia in conjunction with the 2004 whale watching season. "What to do about Whales?" is screening at the Academy and Cloisters Cinemas at the Arts Centre in Christchurch.

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