Ultimate Kaikōura guide: Best things to do in Kaikōura

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Kaikōura is basically the middle of a Venn diagram of epic experiences.

Wedged between craggy mountains and the glistening Pacific Ocean, Kaikōura somehow delivers some of the best wildlife encounters, outdoor thrills, culinary delights and endlessly stunning scenery in Aotearoa, all within a 10 minute drive of State Highway 1.

So many iconic New Zealand experiences served up in a conveniently compact coastal package, yet so many travellers still treat it as a quick whale watching detour or crayfish pit stop between Picton and Christchurch before getting straight back on the road. And sure, that’s one way to do it, but you’d only see a fraction of what makes this town so special.

I’ve been to Kaikōura multiple times now, in different seasons and on different budgets, and every trip I’m reminded that this place has way more layers than people realise. I’ve never even been on a whale watching cruise (I’m scared of whales, it’s a long story 🙃) and I’d still count Kaikōura as one of my favourite stops on any South Island itinerary.

This guide breaks down all the best things to do in Kaikōura, from the obvious highlights that put it on the map to bucket list experiences you didn’t even know were possible, plus loads of practical details about where to stay, how long to spend and what’s actually worth your time and money.

My most recent trip was sponsored by Destination Kaikōura, but as always, all opinions are entirely based on my own experience. Thank you for supporting me, these partnerships allow me to keep creating super detailed travel guides to help you plan better trips.

Why visit Kaikōura?

I know this is a weird way to describe a destination, but Kaikōura is simply so ✨efficient✨.

Where else in the world can you watch seals play at sunrise before swimming with wild dolphins, tuck into a fresh crayfish lunch, spot whales from the sky in the afternoon, catch the sun setting behind snowy summits and end your night stargazing in a certified Dark Sky Sanctuary, without spending hours behind the wheel?

(The answer is nowhere else, only here!)

Small in size but paaaacked with adventures, it’s actually wild how many different travel experiences have been squeezed into such a tiny radius.

It’s also perfectly placed right along New Zealand’s main highway, which means it fits seamlessly into any Top of the South Island itinerary of you can stop on the way down to Christchurch or Queenstown.

So really, why wouldn’t you visit?!

The best things to do in Kaikōura

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Kaikōura, whether you’re here for the wildlife, the seafood or just the glorious backdrop.

Here are the best experiences to add to your Kaikōura itinerary.

Kaikōura wildlife encounters

Kaikōura’s superb biodiversity (both underwater and in the skies) comes from the Kaikōura Canyon, a deep-sea branch of the Hikurangi Trench that sits just offshore. It funnels nutrient-rich water to the surface and attracts microorganisms, which attract fish, which attract bigger fish, and you get the gist!

This chain reaction supports everything from microscopic plankton to giant sperm whales right on Kaikōura’s doorstep, and visitors can embark on a range of different ethical wildlife encounters to meet the local residents.

Swim with wild dolphins (ethically)

If you consider yourself an animal lover, then I can hand-on-heart (or mouth-on-snorkel) say that swimming with dusky dolphins in Kaikōura will end up being one of your favourite travel experiences in New Zealand. Maybe even the world!

Dolphin Encounter is the only operator permitted to swim with dolphins in Kaikōura, and they’ve been running their dolphin swimming tours since 1990 working closely with DOC to ensure these playful creatures are protected.

You’ll check in at their Esplanade base to get kitted out in thick wetsuits (for both warmth and buoyancy), then take a short bus transfer to the marina and head out along the unfolding coast with a quick safety briefing to prepare you. Once the crew spots a pod, they’ll position the boat and let you know when it’s go-time!

It is impossible for me to describe what it feels like to slip off the back of the boat, wait a few seconds for the wake to subside and then suddenly see a conga line of dolphins coming your way. I’m getting goosebumps just writing about it.

These dolphins are wild animals and can choose to glide right past the floating humans if they wish, but duskies in particular are known for being curious and incredibly acrobatic, so most of the time you’ll have at least a handful of them getting right in your face. They’ll circle you at lightning speed (try and keep up with them!), launch into aerial spins and steal your heart. A true pinch-me moment, you really have to experience it for yourself.

Things to know before you swim with dolphins in Kaikōura:

• Marine mammal encounters in NZ are strictly regulated by the Department of Conservation, so you can be confident that the dolphins’ welfare comes first. They’re not fed or baited, they can swim right past if they don’t want to engage, there are swimming time limits, and if there are young calves then it’s a no-go and onto the next pod.
• You can do it in any season, dusky dolphins are permanent residents here!
• The water is chilly, peaking at around 18°C in summer and dropping to 8°C in winter. The wetsuits and hoods they provide are very thick (like so thick it’s a workout to put them on) and you’ll get gloves and booties in winter, but the water hitting your exposed face can still be a bit of a shock to the system. It’s worth it though, and you can thaw out back on the boat with a warm water hose and hot drinks.

• You’ll be out in the open ocean where some level of swell is common, so take seasickness medication before your trip if you’re concerned. Both of my swims had moderate swells, I grew up around boats and don’t get seasick so I felt fine, but half of the group had their heads in buckets by the end of the trip 🙃 If you’re unsure how you’ll feel then better safe than sorry and pop some pills beforehand.
• After the swim you’ll probably get to see the dolphins race the boat and play in the wake as you head back to land, their way of saying goodbye and thank you for the visit!

Join a whale watching cruise

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the largest animals in the world right up close, you’re in luck. Kaikōura has year-round whale residents as well as seasonal visitors who pop in for a feed while migrating up or down the coast.

The sperm whale is the headliner, they can grow up to 18m long 🤯 and can often be spotted surfacing between deep dives. They’re the most loyal customers of the Hikurangi Trench buffet and they live here permanently so can be spotted at any time of the year.

Humpback whales say kia ora during their winter migration, orcas are more frequent in the warmer months, and if fortune is reeeally on your side you might spot the largest animal on the planet, the blue whale. These deep sea giants are occasional summer visitors (usually December to March) and while sightings are rare, it’ll be a life highlight if the stars align.

Whale Watch Kaikōura is the only company allowed to run whale watching cruises here. They’re owned and operated by the Ngāti Kuri people (a hapū/sub-tribe of the Ngāi Tahu iwi/tribe), whose ancestors have shared the Kaikōura waters with whales for centuries.

Their vessels are purpose-built to minimise impact on marine life, they log every sighting to support research and conservation, and some of the frequent whale visitors even appear to recognise the Whale Watch boats and are happy to surface at the perfect photography distance, much to the watchers’ delight!

Things to know before going whale watching:

• Whale Watch has over a 90% success rate in finding whales, typically spotting 1-2 whales each tour
• But it’s important to keep in mind that these are wild animals who do what they want, when they want, where they want. Sightings can’t be guaranteed, but if you are unlucky and miss out then you’ll get an 80% refund.
• Like the dolphin swimming boats, these cruises take you to the open ocean, so take seasickness tablets if you’re prone to motion sickness
• The sea breeze can be chilly so bring layers, even in summer!
• Book in advance, especially in peak season (November to March + any school holidays) because cruises do sell out

Spot whales from above on a scenic flight

If you share my whale phobia or (more likely) you’re too short on time for a cruise, a scenic flight is the ultimate way to see these mega marine creatures, with their full body in sight rather than just a fraction of their back or a tail flick.

Small fixed-wing planes whisk keen whale watchers from the seaside runway just south of town up to the skies over the Kaikōura Canyon. The pilots are obviously experts at spotting things below the surface, but they also keep in touch with boats on the water and every passenger has a window seat and individual headset so they can flag any movement they notice.

I set my whale fears aside (surelyyyy they can’t jump that high 👀) and joined Wings Over Whales for an afternoon flyover, in the front seat no less, and it was absolutely spectacular. I was already in awe over the insane coastline on the way out there when our pilot Jo spotted a humpback about to surface!

We dropped altitude and circled around it as it breached, then when it dived back down Jo played her reverse card and started orbiting the other way to give the other side of the plane a chance for the next breach. A few minutes later and it came back up, close enough to the Whale Watch boat for us to really appreciate how huuuge they are.

Hands down one of the best things to do in Kaikōura, whale phobia or not.

Things to know about whale watching flights in Kaikōura with Wings Over Whales:

• Whale watching flights are 30 minutes, but they have an extended 45 minute option which flies you over the rugged Kaikōura Ranges before circling the peninsula as you come back to land (highly recommend!)
• Resident sperm whales are the main event, but you might also spot migratory whales visiting short-term, pods of dolphins, seals and seabirds
• Whale sightings can’t be guaranteed but phenomenal scenery is a given
• Their 30 minute whale watching flight has a 4.5/5 rating on GetYourGuide from 180+ reviews and the extended whales + mountains flight has a perfect 5/5 rating
• The orbiting around the whales might make you feel a bit queasy if you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before you fly

Spot seals playing in the rockpools

Kekeno (New Zealand fur seals) are everywhere along the Kaikōura coastline, with loads of easy viewpoints where you can see young pups splashing around in the rockpools while the adults snooze nearby.

My favourite place for a seal-watching session is Ohau Point Seal Colony, it’s a 20-25 minute drive north of town with a safe stopping area and a paved walkway that overlooks the colony.

You’ll probably see dozens of seals lounging on the rocks but be sure to look beyond the shoreline out to the pools where the waves are crashing, this is where the adolescent ones practice their aqua-batics.

Other places to spot seals:

• The Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, lazy seals bask all along the rocky shores that surrounds the peninsula. If you don’t want to walk the whole way you can see them at Point Kean at the northern end of the track, or from South Bay walk to Whalers Bay for the best chance.
• This unofficial Seals Beach about 10 minutes south of the city
• Before and after Raramai Tunnel just past Seals Beach, there are safe places to pull over on both sides of the tunnel
• I also watched a lone seal play in the gentle waves right on Kaikōura’s main beach at sunrise, he was in total bliss!

Watch seals in their natural habitat with a seal swim or kayak trip

Kekeno might look clumsy and uncoordinated on land, but underwater they transform into underwater athletes that dive and dart around while hunting for fish. It’s only fair that you give them the chance to impress you!

The ultimate way to experience seals in their element is with Seal Kayak Kaikoura, where you’ll swap the usual paddle for some pedals and cruise across the water powered by your legs instead of your arms.

These unique pedal kayaks are quieter and less disruptive than traditional kayaking, reducing the chance of rogue splashes scaring seals and other marine life away. They also keep both of your hands free too, ideal for snapping photos without having to juggle a phone/camera and a paddle!

If you’re visiting in the warmer months then another option is Seal Swim, a local operator who’s bringing their top-rated underwater encounters back in 2025/2026 summer after a few years off.

See giant albatrosses up close

Bird-watchers rejoice, it’s not just the marine life that’ll leave you speechless.

With wingspans of over three metres and the ability to fly over 800km in a single day, there’s no denying that the albatross is the king of the skies.

14 different types of albatross have been recorded off the Kaikōura coast, including the world-record-holding snowy wandering albatross, who takes out the top spot for longest wingspan of a living bird at a whopping 3.66m.

You might come across them on a whale watching cruise or dolphin swim if you’re lucky, but if you’re keen for a dedicated bird-spotting adventure then a tour with Albatross Encounter is your best bet.

Go for a coastal walk… with a llama?

Not to be upstaged by colossal sea-dwellers or supersized birds, one of the world’s quirkiest land animals offers a unique Kaikōura experience too: a llama trek!

Llamas are not native to New Zealand so don’t expect to see them in the wild, but a farm just out of town is home to a flock of these fluffy characters. They offer guided walks where you’ll have your own llama companion trotting alongside you while you soak up the scenery.

Outdoor adventures

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a leisurely wanderer, a wellness guru or a keen hiker, Kaikōura’s got outdoor adventures everywhere you turn.

Race your travel buddies down New Zealand’s most photogenic zipline

With the commanding Kaikōura Ranges on one side, the impossibly blue Pacific Ocean on the other, and a mosaic of farmland, forest and braided riverbeds in between, EcoZip Kaikōura’s backdrop might just be the best of any zipline on the planet.

Their five-line course criss-crosses the valley with two cables on each segment, meaning you can challenge your travel buddy (or a new friend if you’re travelling New Zealand solo) to see who can get closest to the top speed of 70km/h. Or perhaps you’ll compete for who does the mid-air move? The spaghetti monster is my go-to, ask your zip captain to show you!

The EcoZip experience is about more than just the thrills though. Each platform offers a breathtaking vantage point over the wild coast and lofty mountains, and your guides will share local conservation stories as you walk between them.

Walk the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway

The deservedly-popular Peninsula Walkway showcases Kaikōura’s striking and diverse landscapes in a leisurely 11-12km loop, with shorter sections you can do out-and-back if you’re short on time.

The full Kaikōura Peninsula Loop starts in town, follows the footpath all the way along the Esplanade and Wakatu Quay, connects to Avoca Street near historic Fyffe House and onwards to Point Kean carpark, where the clifftop pathway begins for the 3.5km elevated track to South Bay carpark, then it’s a 2-4km back to the Esplanade depending on where you started.

If you’d prefer a shorter trip then you could park at Point Kean or South Bay and walk the clifftop track and back (7.1km return), or the Point Kean carpark to Whalers Bay 4.2km return can be done in 1-1.5h.

At low tide you can venture out onto the tidal platforms where seals sunbathe and seabirds dry their wings, just be careful of the uneven/slippery ground and always keep your distance from wildlife.

Hike up Mount Fyffe

If you don’t mind a relentlessly steep and strenuous hike, you’ll be rewarded tenfold with the knockout views from up Mount Fyffe.

The full summit trek is doable in a day if you’re quick, 17.2km return with 1410m of elevation, or the DOC hut at 1100m requires bookings if you want to start the next day at an unrivalled sunrise spot.

A shorter option is up to the hut and back, 11.4km return and just over 900m of elevation.

Important: This hike is classified as an Advanced tramping track, it’s only for seasoned hikers with proper boots, weatherproof gear and backcountry experience. Kaikōura’s alpine conditions can change without warning all year round, so always do your due diligence and prepare accordingly.

Get hot and cold with a beachfront sauna & cold plunge

A fairly new addition to Kaikōura’s waterfront is the Sauna Project, a mobile sauna that parks up on the Esplanade for hour-long stints of hot-cold therapy, coupled with stellar scenes that’ll make you forget you’re practically cooking your body.

After 15 minutes sweating it out in 85°C you’ll step outside for a short reprieve, before bolting across the pebbled beach for an icy dip in the Pacific. Come back to the sauna and do it all again, twice.

The Sauna Project sessions run on the hour from 7am to 9am and 4pm to 7pm Friday to Sunday, you can book your spot here.

Experience rural life with a 4WD farm tour

For a Kiwi farm experience with a twist look no further than Glenstrae sheep farm, where you can get a taste for rural South Island life while tearing around on quad bikes surrounded by iconic North Canterbury landscapes.

Glenstrae’s 4WD tours are 2.5 hours long through a variety of terrain, from working farm tracks to shallow stream crossings to clifftop lookouts, and the guides’ banter has earned them a perfect 5/5 rating on Google.

See Kaikōura’s underwater world with a scuba dive

Witness the smaller players in Kaikōura’s thriving marine ecosystem with a scuba dive around rocky outcrops and kelp forests, where you can spot colossal crayfish, camouflaged octopus, colourful nudibranches and the occasional curious seal.

Local operator Daves’ Diving (the apostrophe is there because it’s two Daves who own the place, not a typo!) offer guided boat and shore dives for all levels in summer, including introductory dives, open water courses, specialty programmes and your usual fun dives.

Their guided trips take a break in winter, but if you’re an experienced scuba diver you can rent equipment from them year-round.

Hit the bike trails

Two-wheeled explorers have a range of options to choose from within easy reach of Kaikoura, from winding trails through backcountry stations to epic summit climbs to gentle coastal paths.

The Kaikōura Trail is one of the most popular, a 42km Grade 2/3 loop that links the township with farmland, follows rivers and traces the coast, all framed by the mountains and the sea.

Haumuri Bluffs is a beginner-friendly option, Grade 2 and 9.2km return that follows the railway, or Puhi Puhi Valley takes you into the foothills of the Kaikōura Seaward Ranges on a Grade 3 60km return with captivating landscapes the whole way.

Experienced riders could consider the trail from Clarence River to Forbes Hut, a Grade 4 55.6km return with 1178m of elevation, or the brutal but rewarding climb up Mt Fyffe (Grade 5, 51km return from town, 1602m elevation).

Coastal Sports is your one-stop-shop for gear rental.

Local culture & cuisine

Walk in the footsteps of Māui with Māori Tours Kaikōura

It’s one thing to admire the dramatic collision of alpine and ocean, it’s another thing entirely to hear the legends behind how this landscape came to be.

Led by local Ngāti Kurī guides, Māori Tours Kaikōura weave together pūrākau (stories), tikanga (traditions) and whakapapa (genealogy) passed down by their ancestors to give you a deeper understanding of the region’s significance in Aotearoa’s history.

You’ll visit historic pā (fortified villages), see cultural art installations, try your hand at flax weaving and learn about the unbreakable connection between people, land and sea through the lens of te ao Māori (Māori worldview), all while enjoying brilliant vistas at every turn.

Feast on fresh seafood

Kaikōura literally translates to ‘meal of crayfish’ (kai = food, kōura = crayfish), so if you’re a shellfish fan or you’re at least willing to give it a go, there’s no better place in the world to crack into one.

The most iconic spot to grab fresh crayfish is Nin’s Bin, a retro roadside stall 20 minutes north of town that’s been serving up this local delicacy since 1977. As far as food trucks go it’s pretty up there in price, but it’s cheaper (and probably fresher) than what you’d find in most sit-down restaurants.

If fresh crayfish is out of your budget, or if your seafood palate only extends to deliciously greasy fish & chips, you’re still in luck! Cooper’s Catch is my favourite spot for some cheap eats, get yours to-go and head down to the beach for lunch or dinner with an unbeatable view.

And for a fancier ocean-to-table experience, Kaikōura’s got a selection of more refined spots to wine and dine on fresh fish, crays and more, including the innovative Zephyr Restaurant, the historic Pier Hotel and the restaurant at the luxurious Hapuku Lodge.

Follow the Kaikōura Cultural Art Trail

Out of the devastation of the 2016 earthquake came something beautiful, a series of cultural art installations scattered along the a 60km stretch of badly-damaged coastline from Oaro in the south to Clarence in the north.

Local iwi (tribes), expert carvers and national agencies responsible for the rebuild collaborated to transform the winding highway into an open-air gallery, with seven dedicated safe stopping areas that feature intricate carvings, native landscaping and educational panels explaining the stories of Kaikōura’s past and present.

The best way to experience the trail is to pack a picnic or grab some fresh crayfish, then claim a picnic table at whichever stop takes your fancy.

You can download the Kaikōura Cultural Artwork Trail map here.

Join a cooking class at Hapuku Kitchen

Step into the world of sustainable gastronomy with a full day Hapuku Kitchen Experience, a culinary class that combines gardening, foraging, cooking and (the best bit) feasting.

Renowned chef Fiona Read is all about showcasing Kaikōura’s flavours through paddock-to-plate dining, crafting a creative menu for you whip up with your fellow sous chefs, using the techniques she’ll teach you in her own kitchen. You’ll harvest fresh fruit and vegetables from the garden, learn about other ingredients on offer from nearby farms and producers, try your hand at cooking a variety of dishes, and finally enjoy the fruits of your labour over a glass of vino.

Try Kaikōura’s local brews & spirits

If all that adventuring has you parched, Kaikōura has some top tier local drops to sample if you’re that way inclined.

Located in an unassuming commercial garage down a driveway off the main street, Emporium Brewing has been brewing their own craft beer onsite since 2015. Pop in for a casual drink or a hearty burger, stay for the 18-hole mini golf course or the escape rooms, one of the best things to do in Kaikōura on a rainy day.

For something a little stronger, Mt Fyffe Distillery is a boutique distillery set on a family farm at the base of, you guessed it, Mt Fyffe.

It’s actually a one-woman-business which is wildly impressive 🤯 Justine does everything herself, from foraging for botanicals to finding the perfect blend to hand-filling the bottles and customising each label with its individual bottle number. Distillery tours are free but must be booked in advance.

Step back in time at Fyffe House

The fact that Fyffe House is Kaikōura’s oldest surviving building (dating back to 1842) is the second-most interesting titbit about it, the first is that it sits on a foundation of whale vertebrae!

This historic former whaling station has photos, homewares and other everyday objects that portray what life was like in the 120 or so years that whale hunting sustained the town’s economy, long before marine conservation and tourism made these ocean heavyweights valuable again in a very different way.

A cheap and cheerful side quest if you’re on your way to do the Peninsula Walkway!

Learn about heritage & history at Kaikōura Museum

Looking for a rainy day activity or a break from the outdoors? Kaikōura Museum slips under the radar in a region so full of adventures, but it’s the ideal place for slowing down and connecting the dots between past and present.

Housed in the quirky ‘craypot’ building in the middle of town, a range of interactive exhibits tell the stories of Kaikōura’s geology, biodiversity and human history, from early settlement to the current eco-tourism boom and everything in between.

You’ll also find a moving display on the 2016 earthquake and how it changed the town in so many ways, from the physical geological upheaval to the impact on wildlife to how the community pulled together in the aftermath.

Photography & sightseeing spots in Kaikoura

Many of Kaikōura’s best photo ops and must-sees are built into the experiences I’ve already mentioned, but if you’re the kind of traveller who wants to relive your trip through your camera roll for years to come (hi, same!) I’ve got some extra things to do in Kaikōura to get 📸 the shot 📸.

Stargaze under Kaikōura’s dark skies

You might be knackered when you get back to your accommodation after a full day of wildlife spotting, ziplining or hiking, but don’t get too comfy, because the views certainly don’t stop when the sun goes down. In fact, they might even get better!

Thanks to minimal light pollution and a prime location beneath the southern skies, Kaikōura gained Dark Sky Sanctuary status in September 2024, officially recognising it as one of the best places on the planet to see the Milky Way in all its glory.

Take a warm blanket and a thermos and head out for a DIY stargazing session anywhere unimpeded by street lights. My favourite spots are:

• Kaikōura Lookout (there are phone holders installed on the lookout platform with instructions for shooting star trails!)
• The historic chimney near Fyffe House
• South Bay
• Raramai rest area on the Cultural Artwork Trail, south of town
• Paparoa Point rest area on the Cultural Artwork Trail, north of town

If you’d prefer a guided experience with celestial experts, book with Moana Skies for an astronomy lesson under the stars, complete with telescopes for seeing galaxies from mind-bogglingly far away. Just don’t think too hard about it, it might cause an existential crisis.

If a stargazing experience focusing on astrophotography is more up your alley then renowned astrophotographer Rachel Gillespie runs Kaikōura Stargazing, where you can either starbathe in a comfy chair while listening to stories about the constellations, and get the chance to learn the basics of astrophotography from Rachel to help you get your own shots in the nights to come.

And in case you missed it earlier in the blog post, potentially the coolest combo of travel activities to ever exist is the zipline/stargazing combo StarFlight by EcoZip, where you get to take to the ziplines in complete darkness, look up at the night sky as you fly over unseen valleys, and learn from Rachel herself in between zips.

Catch a candy floss sunrise or sunset

Kaikōura’s location where the mountains meet the sea means you’re spoilt for both sunrise and sunset.

Early birds get a front row seat to the sun climbing over the Pacific Ocean, with the first light hitting Mount Fyffe and its rugged neighbours. Head down to the main beach to hear the waves lapping as the skies turn orange and pink, a guaranteed stress reliever. If you’re lucky you might spot a seal rolling around in the waves!

Alternatively, start the day up at Kaikōura Lookout for unreal views across the ocean, township and the Kaikōura Ranges, where you can watch the landscapes morph as the colours change minute by minute.

If you’re keen for a special stay, Clifftop Cabins has arguably the best sunrise view in town just a few steps from your bed (or right from the bathtub!).

As for sunsets, Kaikōura’s skies often look like they’ve been set on fire, and I have a terrible habit of thinking the sunset won’t amount to much and then being in the supermarket carpark (of all places) when the colours absolutely pop 🙃 seriously, this has happened three times!

Don’t make my mistake, head up to the Kaikōura Lookout about an hour before sunset to experience the perfect pastel panorama across the beach, the ranges beyond and all the way up and down the coastline. Some of the cloud formations wrapped around the serrated summits at dusk have made for a few of my all-time favourite photos.

See it all from a scenic flight

I already mentioned whale watching flights, but if you’re not fussed about spotting wildlife, there are also scenic-only flights that cover a lot of ground sky in short but sweet 15-35 minute flyovers.

• Wings Over Whales have a whirlwind 15 minute discovery tour that takes in the ocean, the peninsula and the mountains
• Air Kaikoura offer 15, 25 and 35 minute scenic flights. The 15 minute follows a similar route to Wings Over Whales, the 25 minute typically extends to Mount Fyffe and Lake Hapuku, and the 35 minute heads further north over black pebble beaches to see the Clarence River and famous Mangamaunu surf break.

Where to stay in Kaikoura

From beachfront villas to cosy cabins to luxury lodges, there are plenty of beautiful places to stay in Kaikōura for all budgets and travel types.

Here are some personal recommendations from my own Kaikōura trips, plus a bunch of top-rated options that other visitors love.

Unique stays in Kaikoura

Other unique stays in Kaikoura:

• Wacky Stays Kaikoura (8.4/10 on booking.com from 260+ reviews)
• Camp Kekerengu (4.6/5 on Google from 15+ reviews)

Luxury accommodation in Kaikoura

• Fyffe Country Lodge (9.5/10 on booking.com from 20+ reviews)
• Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses (9.5/10 on booking.com from 40+ reviews)
• Manakau Lodge (10/10 on booking.com from 15+ reviews)
• Kaikōura Luxury Apartments (8.9/10 on booking.com from 460+ reviews)

Mid-range accommodation in Kaikoura

• The Fairways Accommodation Kaikōura (9.1/10 on booking.com from 1120+ reviews)
• Kaikōura Waterfront Apartments (9.2/10 on booking.com from 1650+ reviews)
• Sudima Kaikōura (8.8/10 on booking.com from 1980+ reviews)

Budget accommodation in Kaikoura

• Donegal House is a 5 minute drive inland with cheap rooms and $20 unpowered camping sites/$30 powered sites, significantly cheaper than the the holiday parks by the coast (8.4/10 on booking.com from 800+ reviews)
• Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park is my go-to campground if I want to park up closer to town, they have affordable cabins too (8.2/10 on booking.com from 1290+ reviews)
• Dolphin Lodge (8.5/10 on booking.com from 1240+ reviews)
• Willowbank Motel (9/10 on booking.com from 1050+ reviews)

Holiday homes

Close to Home is a locally-owned and operated property management company that looks after loooads of holiday homes in Kaikōura (and beyond), with options ranging from budget-friendly studios to luxury waterfront apartments to spacious villas perfect for families or groups.

I stayed at this top-rated 1916 beachfront villa (9.3/10 on booking.com from 10+ reviews), it was the perfect home away from home just steps from the main beach. Stunning landscaping, a fireplace, heat pumps, a fully equipped kitchen, and board games for kiddos to stay entertained as the adults have a drink in the garden.

Kaikōura travel guide

Time to plan the logistics of your trip? Here’s what you need to know to pull together the ultimate Kaikōura itinerary.

How to get to Kaikoura

• 🚗 By car: Kaikōura sits on State Highway 1, about 1h 40m south of Blenheim , 2h 20m north of Christchurch and 1h 50m from Hanmer Springs (without stops). The entire coastal road is one of the most spectacular drives in New Zealand, so give yourself extra time for photo stops and seal spotting along the way.
• 🚂 By train: One of New Zealand’s few long-distance trains, the Coastal Pacific, connects Kaikōura with Christchurch, Blenheim and Picton via an ultra-scenic journey that traces the shore most of the way. It’s a tourist train (rather than commuter rail), so you get the extra perks of an open-air viewing car, local food and drink at the onboard café, or you can upgrade to Scenic Plus for a fully catered experience centred around seasonal produce.
• 🚌 By bus: InterCity is the main bus network in NZ, with 1-2 daily departures between Picton/Blenheim and Christchurch that stop off in Kaikoura.
• 🚎 By hop-on hop-off bus: Kiwi Experience is a backpacker favourite, offering flexible hop-on hop-off bus passes along a route that connects all the tourism hot spots, including Kaikoura.

Getting around Kaikoura

• 🚗 By car: Having your own vehicle definitely gives you the most freedom to explore the Kaikōura coast, just be sure to book in advance to lock in the best price. If you’re arriving by train or bus and you just want to rent a car for a day or two to explore further afield, Kaikōura Rentals is a small local company with some affordable options.
• 🚙 By campervan: Kaikōura is campervan-friendly too, with wide streets and lots of parking. If you’ve got a self-contained vehicle you can try to nab an overnight spot at one of the five designated responsible camping areas, more info here.

• 🚶🏼‍♀️ On foot/bike: Kaikōura’s township is small enough to walk between most cafés, shops and the beach, and many tourism operators that run adventures further out offer courtesy shuttles from set meeting points or your accommodation. Or you could get around faster on two wheels with a bike rental from Coastal Sports.
• 🚎 Public transport: There’s no public transport within Kaikōura itself (just the train/buses that connect it with Christchurch and Marlborough), so if you don’t have a vehicle and want to go somewhere outside of walking, you’ll need to book a private shuttle or taxi. Your accommodation can help you organise these if you need.

Best time to visit Kaikoura

One of the few places in the world where you’ve got a high chance of seeing whales all year round, Kaikōura’s guaranteed to show you a good time no matter what season you choose. Here’s what to expect in the different seasons.

☀️ Summer (Dec-Feb)

• Balmy, sunshiney days make it ideal for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking
• Orcas visit Kaikōura throughout the year, but the chance of seeing a pod is higher in the warmer months
• Dusky dolphins tend to hang around closer to shore from October to May
• Late sunsets (8.30-9pm) mean more daylight for activities
• Peak season with local school holidays from mid-Dec to late Jan/early Feb, meaning lots of domestic visitors
• Accommodation and activities can get booked up, lock in your plans in advance to avoid being disappointed

🍂 Autumn (Mar-May)

• An underrated season to see Kaikoura, which means fewer people and lower prices!
• Mild weather, though the nights start to get chilly so pack some warm layers
• Dusky dolphins travel in bigger pods from now through winter

🐬 Winter (Jun-Aug)

• My favourite time to be in Kaikōura ✨
• Crisp days with snow blanketing the mountains
• Humpback whales stop off to visit during their migration
• Prime stargazing opportunities thanks to long nights and clear skies
• Not guaranteed and not something that can be planned for in advance, but if aurora activity is high then you miiight be able to spot the Southern Lights from Kaikoura. Check the Aurora Australis NZ Facebook group for daily forecasts.
• Lots of seal pups at the colonies

🌷 Spring (Sep-Nov)

• Days get longer and warmer
• The Kaikōura Ranges’ snow starts to melt
• Gardens are blooming and birdlife thrives
• Young seals wean from their mother and begin exploring independently, sometimes getting closer to shore (but always stay 20m away for your and their safety)

How long to spend in Kaikoura

2-3 full days is the sweet spot for how long to stay in Kaikoura, but there’s more than enough to do if you’re keen to stick around a little longer.

Two full days lets you tick off a few bucket list activities like whale watching, dolphin swimming, kayaking or ziplining, plus squeeze in the Peninsula Walkway and a well-earned crayfish dinner.

Three full days is perfect if you want to mix wildlife, adrenaline, culture and sightseeing along the coast, just pick your favourite experience from each category and plan the rest of your itinerary around that.

4+ days is ideal if you’re building Kaikōura into a longer South Island road trip or you just want to slow things right down. You could rent a bike for a day, tackle the Mt Fyffe hike, enjoy a slow morning after a late night of astrophotography, or just make a decent dent in this ‘best things to do in Kaikoura’ list without feeling rushed.

FAQs about Kaikoura

Over 7000 words later and now you understand what I mean when I say that Kaikōura is more than just whale watching!

Whether you end up swimming with dolphins, zipping over native forest between the alps and the ocean, cracking into your first ever crayfish, marvelling at the night sky or finally conquering your fear of whales from a safe distance of 300m in the air (Anyone else? Just me? Okay 🙃), this tiny town is a major overachiever when it comes to bucket list experiences.

I hope this Kaikōura travel guide has inspired you to linger a little longer, try something beyond the usual attractions, and piece together your dream Kaikōura itinerary for your upcoming visit.

What’s at the top of your wishlist for this beautiful stretch of the South Island coast, or what ended up being your highlight if you’ve already been? Let me know in the comments!

MORE SOUTH ISLAND DESTINATION GUIDES

• Best things to do in Blenheim & Marlborough
• Best things to do in Tekapo
• Best things to do Milford Sound
• Best things to do in Wanaka
• Best things to do in the Catlins
• Best things to do in Abel Tasman
• Best things to do in Franz Josef Glacier
• Best things to do on Stewart Island

NEW ZEALAND ITINERARIES & ROAD TRIPS

• Ultimate South Island road trip itinerary
• Top of the South Island road trip itinerary
• Christchurch to Hanmer Springs road trip itinerary
• Queenstown to Christchurch road trip itinerary
• Te Anau to Milford Sound: Where to stop along the way
• Ultimate North Island road trip itinerary

OR SEE ALL NEW ZEALAND BLOG POSTS 👉🏼

MY GO-TO TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES

Flights ✈️ I use Skyscanner to find the best flights for my trip and then I’ll always book direct with the airline to protect myself from having to deal with dodgy third parties if anything goes wrong.

Trains 🚂 If I’m travelling through Europe, I try to travel by train wherever possible! For an extended trip (2+ weeks) I’ll calculate if a Eurail Pass is worth it, or I’ll book point-to-point tickets through RailEurope or the local train operator.

Accommodation 🛎️ I book almost all of my accommodation through booking.com, they have a user-friendly website + app and many of their options are free cancellation, easily cancelled with a simple click of a button.

Activities 🗽I use GetYourGuide, Klook and Viator to look for activities in the places I visit, or I just Google ‘things to do in [city]’! P.S. If you book anything on Klook you can use the promocode FINDINGALEXXKLOOK to get 10% off

Travel cards 💳 I’m a Wise gal through and through, they’ve been my chosen travel card for more than five years now. You can easily top up your card from your bank account or through Apple Pay, convert your money to local currency, and spend money with minimal fees and the best exchange rates around.

Travel insurance 🩺 I use Cover-More NZ travel insurance for my own trips, I have a comprehensive policy and I’ve only had good experiences with them. Cover-More also has an Australian company, but if you’re from elsewhere then two popular insurance options for global travellers are SafetyWing (cheaper policy, lower coverage) and World Nomads (more expensive but significantly better coverage).

Luggage 💼 I travel with Samsonite Cosmolite suitcases, one 75cm check in bag and a 55cm carry on bag, and I absolutely adore them and will never travel with anything else! They are SUPER lightweight (2.8kg and 1.9kg respectively) so I have much more space for my actual stuff.

Camera gear 📸 I use a iPhone 15 Pro Max for phone photos/videos, and my camera kit includes a Lumix S9 (incredible lightweight full-frame camera, a game changer for travel creators!) with a 20-60mm lens, a Lumix G9 with an 8-18mm and 12-60mm lens, a DJI Mini 3 Pro drone and a GoPro Hero 10. I do all my writing and editing on my ASUS Zenbook 14, it’s lightweight but powerful enough for photo editing and intense blogging sessions.