Kaikōura is a small seaside village in New Zealand's South Island, rich in history, culture and marine attractions. The dramatic mountain views and the vibrant energy of the seashore has made Kaikōura a must-visit place while you're holidaying in New Zealand.
Kaikōura is famous for a wide range of natural attractions, with up-close sightings of unique New Zealand marine life including whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds that live on the coastline all year round.
Where is Kaikōura?
The Kaikōura township is located on the East coast of the South Island. It's the perfect midway stop if you're taking a road trip between Picton and Christchurch, or planning an itinerary to see the South Island's natural wonders.
Travel Times to Kaikōura
- Driving from Christchurch to Kaikōura takes around 2.5 hours. We recommend taking The Alpine Pacific Touring Route - 450kms of spectacular scenery, destined to become one of the top scenic drives in the world!
- Driving from Blenheim to Kaikōura takes 2 hours.
- Driving between Picton and Kaikōura takes 2.5 hours if you're departing or arriving at the Interislander Cook Strait ferries terminal.
Things to do in Kaikōura
Wildlife Activities in Kaikōura
- Spoilt for choice, you can watch magnificent humpback whales on a helicopter whale watching tour, a Kaikōura boat tour, or up close on a whale watching kayak tour.
- Go swimming with the dolphins.
- Take a walk around the coast, and be on the lookout for seals, limestone formations and seabird colonies. The world's largest seabird, the Albatross, is often seen soaring and searching for its next meal of squid.
- Our nationally endangered Hutton Shearwater (pakaha) and gannets also reside here on the cliff tops, and Little Blue Penguins make their burrows along our coastline.
Outdoor and Adventure Activities in Kaikōura
- Try quad biking or explore a variety of spectacular mountain bike trails.
- After kayaking you can also stretch out your legs on a walk in the Seaward Ranges with Wilderness Walks.
- If you enjoy walking, the rugged breathtaking Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway is a perfect three hour-return hike with outstanding views of the coastline and township.
- The Kaikōura i-Site Visitor Centre is a fantastic source of information during your visit and can assist with all your other accommodation and activity bookings.
Other Things to do in Kaikōura
- Take a step back into Kaikōura's past and whaling history with a visit to Fyffe house, a colonial whalers cottage that was established in 1842.
- Kaikōura Kayaks is within walking distance from the township where you can explore the shops and cafes. Coastal Sports is a perfect place to start, a fun outdoor shop with quality gear.
- You can leave a memento of your visit by making a positive contribution to our environment and supporting trees for travelers.
Where to Eat in Kaikōura
Kaikōura (in the Māori language 'kai' means food, 'koura' means crayfish) has a large selection of eating places, and of course the local speciality is crayfish (similar to lobster).This delicacy is served at the Pier Hotel and The Kaikoura Seafood BBQ. For the ultimate fine dining experience contact Hapuku Lodge or Zephyr Restaurant.
Where to Stay in Kaikōura
Looking for a place to stay in Kaikōura? Choose from friendly motels, lodges, holiday parks and backpacker accommodation.
A few examples are: The White Morph, Manakau Lodge, Top 10, and the Alpine Pacific Holiday Park.
We know your time here will leave an impression that lasts a lifetime!