Discover the magic of Kaikōura
Take the Coastal Pacific to the picturesque town of Kaikōura, where mountains meet the sea and wildlife outnumbers the locals!
Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered in Kaikōura. The dramatic landscape of a town between the Kaikōura Ranges and the South Pacific Ocean make this a year-round destination.
Marine Habitat
Below the surface, Kaikōura is home to an abundance of marine animals and rare undersea phenomena such as the Hikurangi Trench. This 3km deep canyon stretches across the ocean floor, allowing Kaikōura to be one of the few places in the world where you can see Sperm Whales so close to shore.
Kaikōura is the ultimate eco-tourism destination; with the local community leading the charge in conservation and sustainability. As a result, Kaikōura is the first destination in the Southern Hemisphere to achieve Earth Check Platinum Accreditation.
Things to do in Kaikōura
As an all-season destination Kaikōura has something for everyone, here are some of our top picks.
Whale Watching
Set off into Kaikōura's picturesque harbour to discover the Giant Sperm Whale.
Cycle the Whale Trail
Discover the Whale Trail Kaikōura to Picton, weaving through scenic towns and captivating landscapes.
Kaikōura Museum
Exhibitions include natural history, Maori, whaling, surfing and mementos from Kaikōura's past.
EcoZip Kaikoura
See Kaikōura as you have never experience before on an exhilarating zipline above native forest canopies with incredible 360 degrees views.
Point Kean
You’re bound to see the Seals of Kaikōura lying on rocks all over the coast; the best place for viewing is at Point Kean.
Kaikōura Peninsula
The Walkway is an easily accessible loop, with spectacular views in all directions | 3 hours (11.7kms)
Where to Stay in Kaikōura
Accommodation in Kaikōura ranges from unique luxury to backpacker basic.
A short walk from Kaikōura station and you will find accommodation to suit any holiday style. From campgrounds and backpackers, lodges, motels, apartments and more you will easily find the perfect place to stay.
If you have transport and are willing to venture out of the township you have the choice of some idyllic rural retreats such as Hapuku Lodge and PurePods. Set in the mountains these luxurious escapes will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
Kaikōura Transport
When it comes to getting around, most places in Kaikōura can be reached by foot.
To get from the train to your hotel or accommodation, it is worth asking your hotelier for their recommendation (often they'll offer to pick you up!).
Kaikōura History
Kaikōura has seen it all from the days of Te Rauparaha, whalers, farmers, pioneers and timber millers to the growth of roads, shipping and coach services. As a buzzing tourist town famous for whale watching and seafood Kaikōura has been thrown into the public consciousness for other reasons, all at the hands of Mother Nature.
Kaikōura Railway Station
Located at the Whale Watching Experience, Kaikōura's Railway Station is accessible by foot from the centre of its quaint town.