Winter Special
Winter is one of Kaikōura's most beautiful seasons. Enjoy $20 off per person on our wildlife kayak tours with promo code TAKURUA and discover why this time of year offers something truly special.
Winter in Kaikōura has a special kind of magic.
The mountains wear fresh snow, the ocean takes on a deep blue stillness, and the pace of life seems to slow. It's a season that invites you to pause, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
Kaikōura has always offered something more than just a visit—it offers a feeling.
A feeling of perspective as you paddle beneath towering mountains. A feeling of wonder as fur seals play nearby. A feeling of calm that stays with you long after you've left the water.
This winter, we want to share that feeling with even more people.
Introducing Our Winter Special
For a limited time, enjoy $20 off per person on our wildlife kayak tours using the promo code:
TAKURUA
In te reo Māori, Takurua refers to winter and is also associated with Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. Traditionally, Takurua signals a time of reflection, renewal, and connection with the natural world—something we believe perfectly captures the experience of winter in Kaikōura.
Why Visit in Winter?
Many visitors are surprised to discover that winter is one of the best times to explore Kaikōura.
The air is crisp and clear, the mountains are often snow-capped, and the coastline feels peaceful and uncrowded. Wildlife remains active year-round, with opportunities to encounter New Zealand fur seals and enjoy the spectacular marine environment that makes Kaikōura so unique.
Winter is also whale season, with migrating humpback whales beginning to pass our coastline, adding to the sense of excitement and wonder that this time of year brings.
More Than a Tour
Our guided wildlife kayak tours offer a chance to experience Kaikōura from a different perspective. Quietly exploring the coastline by kayak allows you to slow down, immerse yourself in the environment, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.
It's not just about what you see—it's about how you feel.
Winter Special Details
- $20 off per person
- Promo Code: Takurua
- Valid for new bookings only
- Blackout dates apply: 29 June – 21 July
- Subject to availability
- Ends 27th September
- Direct bookings only - https://www.kaikourakayaks.nz/booking
Come and Feel the Difference
This winter, we invite you to experience Kaikōura at its most peaceful and inspiring.
Come for the scenery, the wildlife, and the adventure.
Leave with something more.
Book your winter kayak adventure today and use promo code TAKURUA to save $20 per person.
What our customers have to say
Truly amazing experience! We had a lot of luck with the weather and animal encounters, we saw a small whale and loads of seals. Staff were super friendly and it was much fun. Would definitely recommend
Serafin K, Europe
I’d like to say thanks for a great day today. The guides were excellent setting up the day and introducing everyone. They’re very organized. The equipment was of a great standard and the day was brilliant. The weather was good and we saw well over 100 dolphins, and even seals and birds local to the area. All in all we had a great...
Emma H, Canada
Marine mammal megamix Spent a truly incredible morning around the Kaikōura Peninsula with Matt and Emma, two fantastic local guides. The whole operation was very professional, with high quality kayaks, equipment and a detailed safety briefing. Spent a good amount of time observing the seals, tried our hand at some kayak surfing in the big...
Tom, Neverlands
We loved our trip with Kaikoura kayaks. We took our whole family and the kids aged 9,12 and 14 really enjoyed paddling on the water and getting up close to the seals on the rocks. The guides were really informative and friendly. The safety briefing meant us parents felt comfortable with our kids out on the water. We would highly recommend!
Erin, Australia
We had a great time kayaking with this outfit. The guides were professional and trained us well before we got into the water. We saw loads of fur seals as well as albatross. It was a wonderful experience that I highly recommend.
Marcella R, USA
We had an amazing time with our guide Loz, gave us some really cold facts about all the wildlife around! He had a wealth of knowledge and even managed to bring us to some Dusky dolphins!!
Emma R, Ireland
"To Matt and the Kaikōura Kayaks team, Thank you very much for a fantastic day of kayaking. Both our trips were very well organised by your friendly team. We found your lessons enjoyable, helping us all to be confident, expert paddlers! We were so lucky to have a beautiful sunny day, and we enjoyed fantastic scenery and wildlife out...
Kowhai Class, Hurunui College NZ
The experience of a lifetime! Having intuitive and professional guides who allowed us the opportunity to experience an outstanding and very memorable day. They knew just where the incredible action was happening. We saw an amazing array of dolphins playing right near us and also saw blue penguins and seals. We travelled for two weeks around...
Paula Kirby, Wellinton NZ
We were soooo lucky - perfect sunshine, calm water and 300 dolphins! But it wasn't just luck: Kaikoura Kayaks were also superbly organised, friendly, safe, encouraging and a LOT of fun. Thank you!
Lucy M, UK