Tucked between the rugged Seaward Kaikōura Ranges and the vast Pacific Ocean, Kaikōura is one of the most spectacular coastal towns in New Zealand. It’s a place where snow-capped mountains seem to rise straight out of the sea, dolphins leap through waves, whales breach offshore, and the seafood is as fresh as the salty breeze.
Whether you’re an adventurer, wildlife lover, foodie, or simply someone chasing unforgettable scenery, Kaikōura is a must-visit destination on any South Island journey.
World-Famous Whale Watching
Kaikōura is one of the best places on Earth to see whales in the wild all year round.
- Giant sperm whales are the stars of the show, often spotted just minutes from shore.
- You might also see humpback whales, orcas, blue whales, and pilot whales, depending on the season.
- Whale Watch Kaikōura offers eco-friendly boat tours with expert commentary and dramatic close-up sightings.
- Prefer the sky? Scenic flights and helicopter tours offer breathtaking views of whales, dolphins, and the coastline from above.
Get Up Close with Marine Wildlife
It’s not just about whales, Kaikōura’s nutrient-rich waters attract a huge variety of marine life.
- Swim with Dusky Dolphins – Join a guided boat trip and jump in with one of the world’s most playful and acrobatic dolphin species.
- Seal Kayaking – Paddle around the Kaikōura Peninsula with friendly New Zealand fur seals cruising beside your kayak.
- Albatross Encounter Tours – Bird lovers will be thrilled by the chance to see royal albatross, petrels, shearwaters, and more, often just metres from the boat.
- Visit Point Kean Seal Colony – Just a short walk from town, this wild seal hangout is perfect for photographers and wildlife watchers.
Coastal Walks With Epic Views
Kaikōura’s coastal trails are some of the most scenic in the country, with stunning contrasts between sea and snow.
- Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway – A must-do! This 3-hour loop features dramatic cliffs, limestone formations, seal colonies, and panoramic views of the Pacific and the mountains.
- Mt Fyffe Summit Track – For those seeking elevation, this full-day hike rewards with sweeping views across Kaikōura and out to the ocean.
- Lavendyl Lavender Farm – A peaceful spot with short trails, sweet smells, and views of Mt Fyffe.
Taste the Sea: Kaikōura = “Eat Crayfish”
The name Kaikōura literally means “meal of crayfish” (kai = food, kōura = crayfish), and you’ll want to live up to the name.
- Try freshly caught kōura (crayfish) from a roadside BBQ stand like Nin’s Bin a legendary local food truck with unbeatable ocean views.
- Seafood BBQ Kiosk near Point Kean is also a top spot for lobster rolls, paua patties, and scallops.
- For something fancier, try The Pier Hotel or Hislops Café for seafood with a glass of local wine.
Stargazing & Scenic Drives
With little light pollution and wide-open skies, Kaikōura is a stunning place for stargazing especially in winter when the Milky Way shines bright above the mountains.
- Drive to Mangamaunu Bay – A popular surf spot with great sunset views and coastal photo ops.
- Visit the Inland Kaikōura Road – For epic views and a loop drive that connects with Hanmer Springs or back toward Christchurch.
Earth, Sea & Storytelling
Kaikōura is rich in Māori culture and geological wonder:
- Learn about the area’s Ngāti Kurī heritage on cultural tours or by visiting the local i-SITE for background on local legends and sites.
- The 2016 earthquake lifted parts of the seabed more than 2 metres evidence of which you can see in the exposed rocks and altered landscape.
Where to Stay
Kaikōura offers plenty of options for all types of travellers:
- Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses – Stay in luxury tree houses overlooking mountains and deer paddocks.
- The White Morph – Beachfront studios with unbeatable sunrise views.
- Top 10 Holiday Park – Great for campervans, families, and groups.
- Coastal Airbnbs – For those seeking privacy and a room with a view.
Top Things to Do in Kaikōura
Wildlife Encounters
- Whale Watching Tour
- Spot giant sperm whales year-round and seasonal visitors like humpbacks and orcas.
- Book with Whale Watch Kaikōura for a guided, eco-friendly experience.
- Swim with Dusky Dolphins
- Join a once-in-a-lifetime guided tour and swim alongside playful pods of wild dolphins.
- Seal Kayaking Tour
- Paddle around the Kaikōura Peninsula with fur seals swimming beside your kayak.
- Visit the Point Kean Seal Colony
- Just a short walk from town, this rocky spot is home to a large population of seals best viewed from a respectful distance.
- Albatross Encounter Boat Tour
- See majestic royal albatross and other seabirds up close in their natural environment.
Scenic Walks & Hikes
- Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway
- A 3-hour loop along clifftops, past seal colonies and ocean blowholes with sweeping views of the sea and mountains.
- Mt Fyffe Summit Track
- A challenging full-day hike with panoramic views over Kaikōura and the Pacific Ocean.
- Lavendyl Lavender Farm Walks
- Short garden strolls through fragrant lavender fields with mountain views.
- Fyffe House
- Step into Kaikōura’s oldest building and learn about its whaling history and early settlers.
Local Food & Flavours
- Eat Crayfish at Nin’s Bin
- Enjoy freshly cooked kōura (crayfish) right by the sea at this iconic roadside caravan.
- Try Local Seafood at the BBQ Kiosk
- Feast on crayfish, paua fritters, and scallops near Point Kean.
- Dine at The Pier Hotel
- A historic pub with sea views, local wines, and hearty seafood dishes.
- Visit Kaikōura Farmers Market (seasonal)
- Pick up local produce, baked goods, and artisan treats.
Adventure & Exploration
- Take a Scenic Flight or Helicopter Tour
- Soar above the coastline and spot whales, dolphins, and snow-capped peaks from above.
- Explore the Kaikōura Coastline by Bike
- Hire a bike and ride the scenic coastal roads or gravel trails.
- Drive to Mangamaunu Bay
- A peaceful beach and surf spot with incredible sunset views and photo opportunities.
- Visit the Earthquake Uplift Site
- See how the 2016 earthquake reshaped the land, raising the seabed and changing the coastline forever.
Relax & Reconnect
- Stargazing
- With clear skies and minimal light pollution, Kaikōura is a fantastic place to view the Milky Way and southern constellations.
- Watch the Sunrise from the Beach
- Wake early and enjoy a stunning ocean sunrise with the Kaikōura Ranges silhouetted behind you.
- Book a Stay in a Treehouse at Hapuku Lodge
- Sleep among the treetops in luxury, surrounded by nature and sweeping views.
Final Thoughts
Kaikōura is a place of contrasts and wonder where snow meets surf, where mountains frame the sea, and where the wild world swims right at your doorstep. From whale encounters to seafood feasts and soul-stirring scenery, Kaikōura offers one of the most unique travel experiences in Aotearoa.
Come for the whales. Stay for the magic.
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