Archive
Special Occasion? Why not a private Helicopter pickup and mountain tourSightseeing takes on a whole new meaning in Kaikoura, where you can be guaranteed an exciting range of seals, dolphins, whales, shellfish, fish and rare birds right at your fingertips. Experience all of Kaikoura’s incredible marine life close-up while in, on, or above the water, or keep your feet on solid ground and easily find seal colonies basking on the rocks and an abundance of birdlife going about their daily lives. Read on to find out all the great ways to enjoy Kaikoura and its wonderful wildlife.
1. Whale Watching
Number 1 on pretty much everybody’s list when visiting Kaikoura is to get out on the water to see the whales. The deep canyon beneath the surface just off the Kaikoura coastline is what brings these majestic creatures so close to the shore, and it’s the readily available food sources generated from its currents that keep them coming back – and we are so very grateful! Your local guide’s Whale Watch Kaikoura guarantee a 95% success rate, so it is highly likely you will see a whale. But, if by chance you don’t – they offer to refund 80% of the tour price!
What To Expect
Wondering what you’ll get to see in your 2 hours out on the water? It is comforting to know approximately 80% of the world’s whale, and dolphin species migrate past the Kaikoura coastline, which means every day is different! At any given time, there is the possibility of seeing a variety of marine mammals including:
- Giant Sperm Whales
- Blue Whales
- Humpback Whales
- Pilot Whales
- Southern Right Whales
- Orca (Killer whales)
- Common Dolphins
- Bottlenose Dolphins
- Dusky Dolphins
- Hector’s Dolphins
- Elephant Seals
- Leopard Seals
- A wide selection of local birdlife
Best Time For Whale Watching
All times of the year are good for Sperm Whale sightings, as they are present year-round, as are the seals, some dolphin species and a variety of birds. For all other migratory whale species, their presence will depend on the time of year. For most, this is during the cooler months, especially in June, July and August, but sightings are possible from May through to November. The best viewing conditions (calm waters and favourable weather) are in the early morning.
Tour Departure Times
The early morning 7 am sailing is the best time of day if you’re ok with an early start, otherwise, there are usually two other sailings during the day at around 10 am and 12.45 pm. Children under three years are not permitted on whale watching tours.
2. Seal Swimming
While it is easy to enjoy the antics of these fuzzy little marine mammals from various vantage points on land – swimming with the seals takes your seal encounter to a whole new level! Enjoying the curious nature of these agile creatures as they come and go as they please while snorkelling and swimming in the beautiful waters off Kaikoura is a truly unique wildlife experience – one you will remember forever!
What To Expect
Accompanied by guides, you will be able to enter the water for around an hour to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. You will be provided with wet suits and snorkelling equipment. Swimmers can expect to get some degree of interaction at around a 3 metre distance at different times during the hour in the water. Spectators are welcome at discounted prices, so if you aren’t keen to get in the water, you can still tag along.
Best Time For Seal Swimming
This breath-taking nature activity is available from October/November through to April/May, depending on the conditions. Unfortunately, the seal swimming tours are not available during the winter months due to inconsistency in the interactions with seals largely due to cooler waters. It also pays to note that tours are weather dependent and can be cancelled at short notice.
Tour Departure Times
From December through to March tour times operate to suit the tides but as a rough guide;
- 9.00 am
- 11.00 am
- 12.30 pm
- 2.00 pm
For the months of October, November, April and May tour scheduling varies depending on demand, please contact Seal Swim Kaikoura for confirmation of tour times.
3. Crayfish Crayfish Crayfish!
Are you craving some crayfish? Then you’ve come to the right place – Kaikoura is known for the freshest of fresh crayfish and seafood. Straight from the ocean to your plate is the speciality of many of Kaikoura’s local eateries.
What To Expect
Kaikoura is blessed with a good range of places to eat including everything from food trucks and pub style dining to cafes and restaurants. Whether it’s takeaways on the beach, fish and chips in the car, a casual meal, or fine dining, you will find a good range of choices. Here are our top picks for the best places to get your hands on some crayfish in Kaikoura.
- The Pier Hotel Restaurant. Pub style food and ambience situated in weel known historic venue located on Avoca Street.
- Nins Bin. Food truck style dining on the side of the road at Half Moon Bay.
- Karaka Lobster. Food truck style dining on the side of the road at Okiwi Bay.
- Coopers Catch. Food truck style dining located on West End Street, Central Kaikoura.
- Green Dolphin. Restaurant and bar with beautiful views on Avoca Street.
- Zephyr Restaurant. Small yet stylish contemporary restaurant with a good wine list, located on the West End Street, central Kaikoura.
- Koura Bay Lodge’s Restaurant. Fine dining experience located at the Koura Bay Gold Resort on Koura Bay Drive.
Best Time To Eat Crayfish
Anytime! Crayfish are available year-round in Kaikoura, however they are not usually available fresh during the moulting period from March to mid-May (they are not able to be caught for commercial purposes during this time, so they may be substituted for frozen stock or not readily available). Local weather conditions may also affect availability day to day, especially if it is too rough for the boat to go out and check the cray pots.
Opening Hours
All of these great little eateries will have different hours of operation, always check their websites for the most up to date opening hours or give them a call ahead of time. It does pay to note that Kaikoura is a relatively small town, so don’t expect all of these places to be open all of the time. Generally speaking, you will find most food trucks and cafes are open during the day and restaurants during the evening.
4. Swimming With The Dolphins
Swimming with these graceful creatures has often been described as awe-inspiring, out of this world, and life changing! For most people, it is definitely one of those things that count as a once in a lifetime experience. Finding yourself in the dolphin’s natural habitat, watching them frolic, feed and interact with each other is definitely going to be one of your most memorable activities in Kaikoura!
What To Expect
On a dolphin encounter in Kaikoura, you can expect to spot Dusky Dolphins year-round, along with the small possibility of seeing Hector’s Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins and Short-Beaked Common Dolphins, depending on the time of year. There is also a very slight chance of spotting some of the largest known dolphin species – the Orca! You will also be likely to see other marine species such as fur seals, a variety of fish and birdlife.
- Dusky Dolphins
- Common Dolphins
- Bottlenose Dolphins
- Hector’s Dolphins
- Orca
Best Time To Swim With Dolphins
You can see dolphins at any time of the day, however, the best time to swim with them is in the early hours of the morning. This is because it is when they are most active as it is when they feed. Expect to spend about 2.5 hours on the boat and approximately 40 minutes in the water. When swimming with dolphins, it is important to remember they are wild animals, and their behaviour can never be predicted or guaranteed – this means every encounter is different.
Tour Departure Times
Dolphin Encounter Tours offers the following tour times, always check their website for up to date tour departures. Tours are weather dependent.
- 8.30 am during October and November
- 8.30 am and 12.30 pm from mid-November through the summer until April
- 10 am during the winter months May to September
5. Kayaking In Kaikoura
Kayaking in Kaikoura is a fantastic way to experience a wildlife encounter from a different perspective. Kayaks are quieter, more manoeuvrable and able to go places boats can’t. Plus, you have the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Kayaking tours are also the most environmentally friendly tour option in Kaikoura, as there is no impact on the natural environment, no fuel needed and the least disturbance to wildlife.
What To Expect
There are a couple of options for kayaking tours in Kaikoura, including private and combined group tours. Experienced guides accompany all tours, however, there is an option to hire a kayak and set out on your own if you are an experienced kayaker. No previous kayaking experience is needed for the guided tours. Birdlife and marine mammals are a big part of the kayaking experience, you can expect to see a good variety which may include:
- Dusky Dolphins
- Hectors Dolphins
- Fur seals
- Little Blue Penguins
- Gannets
- Albatross
- Petrels
Best Time To Kayak In Kaikoura
Kayak tours operate year-round in Kaikoura, with each season offering slightly different viewing opportunities. Summer and winter paddling are both popular pursuits, however, if you are worried about the cold stick to the summer months. Early morning is the best tour time as this is when kayakers experience the most interaction with marine life and before the prevailing winds set in.
Tour Departure Times
Tours run for 3 – 3.5 hours from sign up to completion. This includes a 45 minute safety briefing, around 2 hours on the water and a short debrief upon returning to base. Tour times do vary, but as a guide here are some of the regular departure times.
- April to September 8.30 am, 12.30 pm and 3:30pm (only during April and May)
- October to March 8.30 am, 12.30 pm and 4.30 pm (Sunset Evening Classic Tour)
6. Surfing The Breaks
One of the South Islands’ best surf spots, Kaikoura has a little something for everyone! The Ocean Fun Reefs just north of the Kaikoura offers fun for beginners, while Mangamaunu, with its fast hollow waves, provides more of a challenge, and Kahutara is a good one for the experts out there. There are several surf schools offering lessons and gear hire in town, so hunt around and you will find you’re all sorted for a day out on the waves!
What To Expect
There are a number of different surf spots along the Kaikoura coast, each with its own unique challenges. Check out the top 7 surfing spots and their details below.
- Mangamaunu. North of Kaikoura Township. Intermediate to expert surfers. Long, right hand point break over boulders.
- Kahutara. South of the Kaikoura Township near the Kahutara Bridge. Confident/advanced surfers only. Heavy, powerful right hand break.
- Meatworks. North of the Township. Intermediate to expert surfers. Consistent break, punchy A-frames, boulder bottom.
- Graveyards. North of Kaikoura Township. Good for learners through to advanced surfers. Easier softer waves with more room to spread out. Good at low tide.
- Gooches Beach. Located down the Esplanade in the Kaikoura Township. Kid-friendly and suitable for learner surfers. Sheltered break over sand, crumbly left and right closeout.
- Okiwi Bay. North of Kaikoura Township, 10 minutes past Mangamaunu. Beginner to intermediate level. Sand and boulder with both right and left handers on offer.
- Oaro Beach. South of Kaikōura. Good for surfers of all levels. Various left and right banks.
Best Time To Go Surfing
Surfing at Kaikoura isn’t without its risks, the coastline is rock heavy, so it can be difficult getting in and out over the rocks, and you’re mostly surfing over boulders which provides its own perils. Most surf beaches in Kaikoura are better surfed on the low to mid-tide. If in doubt, check it out!
Surf Schools And Board Hire
There are two main surf schools in Kaikoura and one surf hire shop:
7. Whale Watch Scenic Flights
Want to experience Kaikoura from a different perspective? Take to the skies with a scenic flight and get unique views of the whales, dolphins and more from above. Scenic flights are able to provide full-length aerial views of the whales and entire pods of dolphins which you simply don’t get when out on the water. And the scenic views of Kaikoura’s mountain ranges and surrounding landscape are a bonus!
What To Expect
When choosing your scenic flight in Kaikoura, there are two options: fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter flights. Both offer a slightly different experience, each with its own pros and cons, whichever option you choose, you are guaranteed epic views! As a rough guide, fixed-wing flights are going to cost you around $200 for 30 minutes of whale watching, and helicopter flights come in at around $300 for the same amount of time. Here are the 4 main whale watching scenic flight operators in Kaikoura.
Best Time For Scenic Flights
Scenic flights in Kaikoura operate year-round and at various times of the day. The best time of day to fly is in the morning as flight conditions are likely to be calmer before the prevailing winds get up, plus the whales and dolphins are most active in the early mornings. However, it is much easier to spot the whales and other wildlife because you are in the air, so really any time of day is good!
Flight Departure Times
Scenic flights and whale watching flights are available throughout the day, please check with your flight providers for specific times. It does pay to be aware that all flights are weather dependent and may not be able to proceed if flight conditions are not favourable.
8. Hiking Or Biking In The Hills
While no one can deny the awe-inspiring beauty of the sea and its inhabitants, Kaikoura is not all about its coastal wildlife. If you turn your head away from the ocean for just a moment, you will notice the majestic mountain ranges that form Kaikoura’s western border. Mount Fyffe in particular, offers avid hikers and mountain bikers some pretty awesome outdoor adventure opportunities.
What To Expect
If Mount Fyffe is your destination, then hiking or biking are your choices. There are a number of tracks available at varying distances and levels of ability, so a bit of research before you go is recommended. Always bear in mind you are entering mountainous terrain, so always make sure you are well equipped with food and warm clothing before you head out.
- Hinau Track, 45 Minutes. This scenic loop track is rated as an easy walk and begins at the Mt Fyffe carpark. The trail is suitable for all ages and passes through native forest and vegetation and includes a small river crossing.
- Mt Fyffe Track, 8 Hours. The full Mt Fyffe track takes around 8 hours return and climbs from the carpark up along the ridge 1602 metres to the top of My Fyffe. For those who manage to complete the climb, spectacular panoramic views of the Kaikoura Peninsula and its surrounds await.
- Fyffe-Palmer Track, 1 Hour 45 Minutes. A slightly more manageable trail that starts out across farmland before heading into the regenerating forest of Fyffe-Palmer Scenic Reserve.
- Mt Fyffe Kowhai-Hapuku Circuit Track, 2-3 Days. The ultimate hiking journey for the more experienced out there, this challenging 2–3 day trip follows the Hapuka River at the tip of Grange Road, through some epic Kaikoura backcountry and across to the Kowhai River before heading back to the Mt Fyffe car park (or vice versa). While rewarding this track is not for the faint-hearted, you will need to be well equipped with the appropriate hiking gear.
Best Time To Hike Mt Fyffe
This is mountainous terrain, so while you may relish the chance to encounter snow, most would likely prefer the warmer months between October and April. Good quality hiking gear is required at all times of the year. Always carry warm clothing with waterproof options and plenty of food.
Departure Times
You can depart on the walks at Mt Fyffe at any time of the day however, if setting out on the 3-day Kowhai-Hapuku Circuit or the Mt Fyffe Track, you will need to set off in the early hours of the morning in order to make it to your destination before darkness sets in.
9. Albatross Sightseeing Cruises
A great one to combine with your dolphin or whale watching experience, an Albatross and rare bird watching cruise is informative and fascinating! See the mighty Albatross up close along with a large variety of seabirds while tour staff happily share their extensive knowledge of the seabirds you encounter. You’ll be surprised at how big these birds really are!
What To Expect
With a maximum of 12 people, these small personalised tours offer the best viewing opportunities to discover a large variety of pelagic birds. Expect to spend around 2 hours out on the water, and bring some warm clothing, a hat, and sunglasses. Some of the birds you might encounter are:
- Albatross
- Shearwaters
- Petrels
- Penguins
- Gannets
- Skuas
- Terns and more!
Best Time For Albatross Watching
Every tour is unique however, morning tours are best as the sea conditions are generally calmer, plus the commercial fisherman are usually out in full swing, which attracts the seabirds. The best times for the greatest diversity of birdlife are during the year are at the change of seasons. So this means late spring, early summer October/November, and during the autumn months of March, April and May. These are the cross-over periods coinciding with the migratory patterns of many of the birds.
Tour Departure Times
Albatross Encounters offer tours from October through to April daily at 9 am and 1 pm. Winter tours are also available at times, contact Albatross Encounters for more information.
10. Stepping Back Into The Past …
Sometimes the best way to understand the present is to take a look at the past. There are two great options for taking a nostalgic glimpse into how Kaikoura was established, the historic Fyffe House and the Kaikoura Museum. Both offer a peek into the harsh lives of Kaikoura’s earliest settlers and their way of life, including artefacts and informative dioramas and audio.
What To Expect
Both of these destinations are great on their own but combine the two, and you’ve got a good rainy day activity in Kaikoura. Stop by the historic Pier Hotel for lunch or dinner for the perfect way to round off your day immersed in the history of Kaikoura.
- Fyffe House
Fyffe House dates back to the 1840s and was the home of Robert Fyfe, a Scotsman working on the whaling boats. Kaikoura’s oldest surviving building, this charming colonial-style structure is all that remains of the Waiopuka Whaling Station established in Kaikoura from 1842 to 1844. Complete with character furniture, quaint attic rooms, artefacts, dioramas, and audio tales, Fyffe House also stands out in its original pink colouring – you can’t miss this one! - Kaikoura Museum
Packed with intriguing artefacts originating from the fishing and whaling industries and its natural history, including the recent Kaikoura Earthquake, the Kaikoura Museum offers great insight into the lives of those who have gone before, including both Maori and European settlers. Explore photographs, relics including a 3-metre long sperm whale jawbone, documents, maps, journals, history books, fishing and whaling artefacts and more!
Best Time To Visit
Explore both of these venues at your own pace during the following operating hours:
- Fyffe House – May through September, Thursday to Monday 10 am – 4 pm
- Kaikoura Museum – Daily 10 am to 4 pm
Entry Prices
Both destinations are offered to the public at very reasonable prices, making them a suitable day out for the whole family.
Fyffe House
- Adults $10.00
- Students $5.00
- Under 18 years are free
Kaikoura Museum
- Adults $12
- Students $10
- Children $6
- Family $30 (2 adults, 2 children)
Need somewhere to stay while in Kaikoura? Rest and relax at the Te Mahura B&B on Schoolhouse Road. This comfortable, well-equipped bed and breakfast style accommodation comes complete with private hot tub and glorious mountain views. Reserve your room today!
The Complete Guide To KaikouraIs whale watching on your bucket list? Then, why not tick that box with a visit to New Zealand’s marine wildlife capital – Kaikoura! Nestled between the trailing edge of the Southern Alps and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura is home to some of the best wildlife watching in the world!
The majestic Kaikoura Canyon, located just offshore, attracts a range of marine life from sperm whales and dolphins to albatross and seals. Experience these magnificent creatures by boat tour for a once in a lifetime experience for travellers of all ages. Read on for all the highlights of Kaikoura, as well as the best places to stay and where to get the best seafood in this complete travel guide to Kaikoura.
FAQ About Kaikoura
Before we dive in, here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions travellers have when visiting Kaikoura.
Why Visit Kaikoura?
Kaikoura is the perfect spot for those who have an interest in marine wildlife and oceanic pursuits. The area is most well-known for its deep waters located very close to the shore due to the Kaikoura Canyon. These deep waters make for the perfect conditions for whales and other marine life such as dolphins, seals and albatross, all of which are permanently living just a short boat journey from shore.
What Is The Kaikoura Canyon?
Deep in the waters of Kaikoura, there lays a unique submarine landscape known as the Kaikoura Canyon. This very deep canyon, located approximately 800 metres off the Kaikoura coast is part of whats known as the “Kermadec Trench system” which extends out into the Pacific Ocean. The Canyon reaches depths of around three kilometres. This naturally formed geographical feature, combined with the warm and cold currents that come together, causes the nutrients from the seabed to circulate, creating an abundant food source for a broad and diverse range of marine life.
Where Is Kaikoura?
Kaikoura is located in the top half of New Zealand’s South Island over on the east coast. Kaikoura is situated in the Canterbury region, north of Christchurch and south of Blenheim and Picton.
Why Is Kaikoura Famous?
Kaikoura is popular with tourists and locals because it is one of the very few places around the world where you can expect to see sperm whales year-round. Visitors have a very high chance of spotting sperm whales, with a possibility of seeing dolphins, orcas, and even humpback whales in the area due to the nature of its deep waters and the proximity to shore. The upwelling currents from the deep Kaikoura Canyon offshore provide a fertile feeding ground drawing a diverse range of wildlife very near to the Kaikōura coastline.
What Does Kaikoura Mean?
The word ‘Kaikōura’ is from the Maori language that combines the Maori words “kai” meaning food, and “kōura” meaning crayfish. Therefore Kaikoura is translated as “to eat crayfish”. Legend has it that Maui (a mythical figure) placed his foot on the Kaikoura peninsula to brace himself while “fishing” up the North Island.
What Is The Population In Kaikoura?
Kaikoura has a permanent population of just over 4200 people, however, this number swells over the summer months as holidaymakers and tourists make their way to this seaside town to sample some of its famous crayfish and see the whales!
What Whales Can You See In Kaikoura?
Due to the abundance of food generated from currents in the Kaikoura Canyon, Giant Sperm whales are present in the waters off Kaikoura all year round. At certain times of the year, you can also see Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.
What Time Of Year Is Best For Whale Watching?
Whale watching tours operate all year round in Kaikoura as it is one of the few locations in the world where Sperm Whales are present all year. However, other migrating whales, like Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales only pass through from Antarctic waters during the months of June and July and August. The best time of year to see Orca is from May through September.
Can You See Whales From The Shore In Kaikoura?
The Kaikoura Canyon is situated around 800 metres off the coast of Kaikoura, this means the whales are able to come fairly close to the shoreline. Therefore, it is entirely possible that you may be able to spot a few whales in the distance on a clear day when the conditions are favourable.
What Is The Weather Like In Kaikoura?
The daily average temperature is 12.7°C in Kaikoura, with an average yearly rainfall of 881mm. The months of January and February are the best times to go for the warmest and driest weather conditions, providing average temperatures of around 20 degrees. The coldest month is July.
Getting To Kaikoura
Kaikoura is located about halfway between Christchurch and Picton (where the inter-island ferry docks when travelling from Wellington). This makes it a very convenient pitt-stop when travelling north or south. Kaikoura’s closest international airport is the Christchurch Airport. This is a 2.5 hour drive from Kaikoura. It is possible to rent a car from Christchurch, take a bus or even catch a train.
Driving Distances By Car
- Picton to Kaikoura 2 hours (156 km)
- Blenheim to Kaikoura 1.5 hours (130 km)
- Nelson to Kaikoura 3.5 hours (250 km)
- Christchurch to Kaikoura 2.5 hours (180 km)
- Hanmer Springs to Kaikoura 1.45 hours (130 km)
- West Coast to Kaikoura 4.5 hours (330 km)
Catching The Bus To Kaikoura
Public transport via bus to Kaikoura is available if you prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery instead of driving. Buses pass from Christchurch through Kaikoura and on to Picton every day. Departing at 7.30 am from Christchurch, where the ride will take approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes to Kaikoura. Departing from Picton, the bus leaves at 1.45 pm for the return trip. Bus fares will cost between $25 and $45 one way.
Flying To Kaikoura
Unfortunately Kaikoura does not have any routine domestic flights available. However, they do have a small airport suitable for light aircraft where chartered flights are able to land. The nearest international airport is in Christchurch (2.5 hours drive away). An alternative option is to fly to Kaikoura’s nearest domestic airport at Blenheim and then drive to Kaikoura (1.5 hours). Flights from Christchurch to Blenheim will cost around $120 to $220 one way.
Taking The Train
New Zealand’s famous Coastal Pacific train journey from Christchurch to Picton passes along the coast, stopping at Kaikoura. This mode of transport is an excellent way to travel in comfort and style while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. The train is the perfect way to connect between Blenheim, Kaikoura and Christchurch, the full journey will take roughly 5-6 hours.
Train tickets for the Coastal Pacific come in at around $100 for the trip to Kaikoura, if you are continuing on for the full journey (between Christchurch and Picton), the total cost will be around $160. It pays to note the Coastal Pacific scenic train journeys do not run over the winter months (May through to August).
What To Do In Kaikoura
The diverse range of marine wildlife is the main drawcard in Kaikoura, and the good news is there are a wide range of experiences catering to viewing and appreciating these beautiful creatures. Whale watching is the main attraction on the list, with various cruises and flights available. Swimming with the dolphins and seals comes in a close second, along with albatross and seal spotting cruises, coastal walking trails, surfing, and biking on offer for the more active traveller.
The Top 3 Things To Do In Kaikoura
Looking for the absolute must-do activities when visiting Kaikoura? Then you’ve come to the right place! Kaikoura’s best highlights are:
- Whale Watching Going on a whale-watching cruise is the number one thing people love to do in Kaikoura – and it’s easy to understand why! Seeing these beautiful majestic creatures swimming around in the ocean is awe-inspiring and, well, simply breathtaking.Expect to see Giant Sperm Whales year-round, New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of dolphins (Dusky, Common and Hector), the mighty albatross, petrels and shearwater. Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales are also present depending upon the time of year.
- Swimming With The DolphinsDolphins are graceful and curious creatures who hold a special place in the hearts of many. Whether it’s swimming with the dolphins or watching them frolic in the water, the opportunity to be in close proximity to these beautiful dolphins will be treasured forever.Expect to see Dusky dolphins year-round, the possibility of Hector’s dolphins and Common dolphins mainly during the summer months, and there is even the slight chance of spotting the largest dolphin species – the orca!
- Take A Walk Along The Kaikoura Peninsula The best way to take in the beautiful scenery and coastal environment in Kaikoura is to head out on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. Stunning ocean views and a variety of marine wildlife await, including multiple viewpoints out over established seal colonies.Expect to see seals (sometimes blocking your path!), a variety of seabirds, historical sites of interest and stunning clifftop views while walking the track. The walk starts at the Kaikoura town centre and continues on to the Point Kean car park. Turn it into a loop track, or choose your length with multiple options for shorter walks. Allow at least three hours for the full loop, which is about 11.7 kilometres.
Where To Eat In Kaikoura
Let’s get straight to the point on this one – it’s seafood you are after, isn’t it! Kaikoura is famous for its crayfish and fresh seafood straight from the ocean, so here are the 5 best places to eat to get your fix.
- Nins Bin. Kaikoura’s famous roadside caravan, Nins Bin is located right on the waterfront at Half Moon Bay. Serving a range of fresh seafood caught daily, choose from crayfish, mussels, fish and chips and whitebait. Open daily from 10 am – 4 pm, weather permitting.
- Kaikoura Seafood BBQ Kiosk. Straight from the ocean to you, the Kaikoura Seafood BBQ offers a selection of seafood from its handy location on the shores of Fyffe Quay towards the tip of the Kaikoura Peninsula. The menu offers crayfish, salmon, paua, shrimps, whitebait, mussels and scallops. Open 10 am to 3 pm most days.
- The Pier Hotel. Prefer to sit inside and enjoy your cray? Then head on over to The Pier Hotel on Avoca Street. This historic hotel is one of the best seafood restaurants in the area and offers a selection of fresh seafood as well as the usual red meat and side dish options.
- The Craypot. Situated right in the central township on Kaikoura’s main street, you will find The Craypot café. Choose from all the usual suspects on the menu, including crayfish, fish and chips, sandwiches, burgers, steak and hot chips. Open daily from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm.
- Strawberry Tree. For a more traditional restaurant vibe, get your fresh crayfish from the Strawberry Tree on West End Street in central Kaikoura. Expect to find a well thought out menu complete with wine list and the added bonus of live entertainment throughout the week.
Where To Stay In Kaikoura
The great thing about Kaikoura is that it has a wide range of accommodation covering all the bases, including cheaper accommodation for the budget-conscious, beautiful Bed & Breakfast accommodation, medium-range motels and hotels and some premium options for those looking for a touch of luxury. Here are our top 5 picks.
Te Mahuru – Best Bed & Breakfast
The Te Mahuru Retreat on Schoolhouse Road is our number one pick for the best B&B accommodation in Kaikoura. Set in peaceful surrounds, Te Mahuru has lovely views of the mountain ranges and beautiful gardens. Their accommodation is well suited to a range of different requirements and includes single suites, a two-room suite, and a self-contained two-bedroom cottage with its own kitchen, Deck, lawns, gardens and privacy. The Te Mahuru Retreat is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway, wedding accommodation or for a range of private functions.
Dolphin Lodge – Best On A Budget
Hostel/backpacker style accommodation with private room or dorm options. Enjoy the quiet central location of the Dolphin Lodge as an affordable base to explore Kaikoura and beyond. Expect spacious rooms, a shared kitchen, unlimited WiFi and peaceful surrounds.
Kaikoura Beach Motel – Best Central Motel
The Kaikoura Beach Motel is located across from the beach, just 5 minutes walk from the town centre. Rooms range from around $100 to $300 per night and offer the standard accessories such as a kitchenette, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, WiFi and off-street parking.
The Pier Hotel – Best Heritage Hotel
Come for the crayfish and stay a while at this historic hotel on the waterfront, complete with its classic “Kiwi pub” ambience, ocean views and simple yet comfortable rooms. Expect shared bathroom facilities in keeping in with the building’s 130+ year heritage feel.
Koura Bay Resort & Golf – Best Luxury Option
The Koura Bay Resort & Golf’s most prominent feature is its private nine-hole golf course, complete with panoramic views of the Kaikoura Peninsula and Kaikoura Mountain Ranges. Relax in style after a round of golf or a day out on the ocean with the whales in your choice of well-equipped hotel-style rooms, on-site dining, room service and private balcony.
Whether you are in Kaikoura for a short weekend getaway or an extended stay, we hope you have found this complete guide to Kaikoura useful when deciding where to stay and what to do. If you would like more information on the best Kaikoura has to offer, don’t hesitate to give the friendly locals at the Te Mahuru Retreat a call today.
15 Best Places To Eat In KaikouraLet’s get straight to the point, you’re here to try out some of Kaikoura’s famous seafood – right? Well, the good news is Kaikoura is packed to the brim with a great assortment of food choices showcasing seafood, local produce, wild game, and craft beers! Read on to find all of the best places to eat in Kaikoura!
1. Beach House Café
Let’s kick this off with our pick for the best café in Kaikoura – the Beach House Café. This lovely little café on Beach Road provides everything you want and need in a café experience – great food (including all your favourites), superb coffee, excellent service and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Take a seat inside or out and tuck in to a plate of fresh pancakes, some avo on toast or the Big Boy breakfast with all the trimmings, all washed down with your favourite coffee or smoothie. The Beach House Cafe is open from 6.30 am till 3 pm, so it’s perfect for those early starts before you head out on the water.
2. The Pier Hotel
An oldie but a goodie, The Pier Hotel provides consistently good food and service with the added bonus of the historic hotel setting. Situated on the waterfront, this hotel is one of the best seafood restaurants in the area and offers a good selection of fresh seafood, including mussels, paua, fish of the day, whitebait and crayfish as well as the usual non-seafood-based options. You will find the Pier Hotel on Avoca Street serving lunch and dinner – keep in mind they also provide lovely Bed and Breakfast style accommodation too.
3. The Why Not Café
Situated on Kaikoura’s main street, the Why Not Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee with a delicious plate of fresh and tasty eggs while you watch the world go by. Expect to find plenty of seating and a reasonably priced menu that includes all the breakfast basics, plus toasted sandwiches, hotdogs, burgers, fish and chips, of course, and yummy seafood chowder! The Why Not Cafe is open daily from 7 am to 4 pm.
4. Strawberry Tree
Sit back and soak up the pub-like vibes of Strawberry Tree right in the heart of Kaikoura on West End Street, complete with live entertainment (on Fridays and Saturdays) and rustic beer garden. Enjoy the laid back atmosphere while you eat choosing from a really good selection of seafood plus burgers and steak. Don’t miss the crispy skinned whole flounder – it’s delicious! Insiders tip; Happy Hour is every day from 5 pm to 6 pm with a variety of beers, wine and spirits available.
5. The Whaler
Famous for its legendary porterhouse steak and sticky BBQ ribs, The Whaler bar and restaurant is located very centrally and offers fantastic views of the snow-capped Kaikoura ranges and surrounding coastal environment from its spacious sun deck. The Whaler is open from 3 pm until late, providing you with a good option for an evening out on the town in Kaikoura.
6. Groper Garage
If it’s pub-style pizza you are after, then you will find Groper Garage is the place to be. Formally a fuel garage (hence the name), Groper Garage is conveniently located in the middle of town. There is always cold beer on tap, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, a pool table and two roaring fires to keep you warm and toasty in the winter. The food and ambience of Groper Garage make it well worth stopping by!
7. Cods & Crays
Looking for the best takeaways in Kaikoura – Cods & Crays should be at the top of your list. Choose your favourite seafood and how you want it cooked, and leave the rest to the friendly team at Cods & Crays. This family-run business offers great service, good food and even has its own smokehouse. Cods & Crays is open 9 am to 8 pm seven days a week, and they will even deliver if you need it. The main store is located north of the township on Beach Road, plus they have a food truck downtown next to Whale Watch Kaikoura during busy times.
8. Black Rabbit Pizza
Black Rabbit is the place to be for craft beer and gourmet pizza on a Friday night. Don’t miss the ‘Shrek and Dolly’ pizza showcasing New Zealand lamb with lashings of mint sauce served piping hot from the pizza oven. Pizzas are made fresh on-site, and delivery is available if required. The Black Rabbit is open from 11 am to 11 pm daily. Check out their dessert pizza for the perfect way to round off the evening!
9. Zephyr Restaurant
For something a little bit special for dinner, seek out the contemporary Zephyr Restaurant on Kaikoura’s main street. Regarded as one of the best bistro-style dining experiences in Kaikoura, Zephyr focuses on bringing you a fine dining experience to remember. The ever-changing menu beautifully showcases local game, fresh produce and wonderful wines to match. Book ahead for this one as space is limited – it is a popular destination for the locals! Zephyr is open Tuesday to Saturday from 5.30 pm until late.
10. Sime’s Kitchen
The perfect spot for breakfast, Simes Kitchen offers up a hearty range of food choices. Expect to find the classic eggs-your-way assortment on the menu, French toast, house-made granola, mushrooms and churros for those who are feeling the effects of a big night out! Grab a snack on the go from their fully stocked cabinet, or stay a while and enjoy some people watching from the deck. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available.
11. Slam Club
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Slam Club is the perfect destination eatery any time of the day. This place will curb your hunger with a great selection of food at affordable prices. Don’t miss their gourmet toasted sandwiches filled with your choice of game, venison, duck or pork, grilled to perfection, and accompanied by crispy roasted potatoes. The Slam Club will keep you coming back with its laid-back atmosphere, wide variety of foods that suit all tastes and budgets, plus its awesome organic coffee and locally brewed craft beers and wines!
12. Bernies Diner
Open 7 days from 7.30 am till 4.30 pm, Bernies Diner is the perfect pit stop with a twist. This retro American-style diner is exactly what you’d expect, complete with hot dogs, doughnuts, milkshakes, burgers, fries and more! While you are there browse throughsome of Bernies merch, and why not check out the Harmons Motor Museum next door. Full of classic cars, this museum is a labour of love from local father and son team Geoff and Bernard Harmon.
13. Coopers Catch
Another popular spot for takeaways, Coopers Catch, serves up all the firm fish-and-chip-shop favourites including battered fish, hot chips, nuggets and burgers, plus they will even cook your freshly caught fish for you. Just bring in what you’ve caught that day, and they will cook it up any way you want! Coopers Catch is open 7 days a week from 11 am to 8 pm.
14. Allure Café
Famous for its Country Fried Chicken, Allure is a licensed café is located on the main street of Kaikoura. Grab a seat inside or out and enjoy the beautiful sunshine. Choose from a selection of pancakes, eggs, French toast, pasta, burgers and, of course, their awesome fried chicken and enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Allure is open 7 days, all day from 8 am to 8 pm, so you can get your fried chicken fix any time of the day!
15. Kaikoura Indian Restaurant & Café
Enjoy India’s culture and culinary specialities at the Kaikoura Indian Restaurant on Beach Road. These guys offer an extensive range of regular, vegetarian, non-vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, along with a wide range of wines, beers and non-alcoholic beverages. Book a table online to ensure you don’t miss out! Open daily for lunch and dinner, 11.30 am – 2.30 pm and from 5 – 10 pm.
Bonus Foodie Tip – Kaikoura’s Best Food Trucks
We simply couldn’t create a list of the best places to eat in Kaikoura without mentioning its excellent food trucks located around the town. Sometimes keeping it kiwi style with fish and chips on the beach is all you need! Need to know where to grab some takeaways? Here is a quick rundown of Kaikoura’s best food trucks and their locations.
- Nins Bin. There is no way you can do an article on the best places to eat in Kaikoura without mentioning Nins Bin! Perhaps Kaikoura’s most famous roadside crayfish caravan, Nins Bin is located right on the waterfront at Half Moon Bay. You will find Nins Bin is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, weather permitting.
- Kaikoura Seafood BBQ Kiosk. The Kaikoura Seafood BBQ offers a selection of fresh seafood from its handy location on the shores of Fyffe Quay. Choose from crayfish, scallops, salmon, paua, whitebait, and mussels, all served fresh and at their best! Open 10 am to 3 pm most days.
- Karaka Lobster. Crayfish are the specialty here, and while technically no longer served from a food truck, these guys are still at the top of the list for the best crayfish in Kaikoura. You will find the Karaka Lobster shop roughly 35 minutes North of Kaikoura looking out over the beautiful Okiwi Bay and it is open 9 am to 4 pm every day.
Looking for a place to stay while in Kaikoura? The Te Mahuru Retreat offers peaceful and relaxing Bed & Breakfast accommodation just 5 minutes from the main township on Schoolhouse Road. Experience the spectacular views and warm hospitality while enjoying your stay in Kaikoura in style at Te Mahuru today.