Kaikoura - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Kaikoura

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kaikoura, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kaikoura and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kaikoura, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Kaikoura for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a small coastal town located on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It is known for its stunning natural beauty with the Kaikoura mountain range on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. The town is famous for its marine life like dolphins, whales, seals and albatross, making it a popular destination for whale watching and other water activities. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and enjoying the local cuisine which features fresh seafood.

What to visit in Kaikoura

Here are some tourist attractions in Kaikoura, New Zealand: 1. Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway: This 11km walk takes you around the beautiful coastal landscape of the Kaikoura Peninsula. It is a great way to see the area's wildlife and geological features, such as seals, birds, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Kaikoura Marine Reserve: This marine reserve is home to a number of unique sea creatures, including dolphins, seals, and whales. Visitors can take a boat tour or go snorkeling or scuba diving to see these creatures up close.
3. Maori Leap Cave: This historic limestone cave features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. It was also the site of a famous battle between two Maori tribes in the 19th century.
4. Fyffe House: This historic 19th-century cottage is one of the oldest buildings in Kaikoura. It was built by a whaling captain and is now open to the public for tours.
5. Ohau Point Seal Colony: This seal colony, located about 20 minutes north of Kaikoura, is a great place to see New Zealand fur seals basking in the sun or playing in the water.
6. Whale Watch Kaikoura: This company offers boat tours to see sperm whales in their natural habitat. They also specialize in eco-tourism and sustainable tourism practices.
7. Lavendyl Lavender Farm: This beautiful lavender farm features fields of fragrant lavender plants, a shop selling lavender products, and a cafe serving lavender-infused treats.
Kaikoura is a place that has something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs to animal lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, whale watching, exploring caves, or just relaxing on the shore while watching the waves.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kaikoura.

When to go on holiday to Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a beautiful coastal town on the South Island of New Zealand known for its incredible marine life, stunning scenery, and outdoor adventures. The best time to visit Kaikoura depends on what activities you plan to do and what type of weather you prefer.
If you want to see whales and dolphins, the best time to visit Kaikoura is from May to September when the migratory whales pass by the coast. These months are also great for skiing and snowboarding as Kaikoura has some excellent ski resorts.
If you prefer warmer weather and want to enjoy beach activities, swimming, and water sports, the best time to visit Kaikoura is from December to February when it is summertime in New Zealand.
Overall, Kaikoura has a mild climate all year round, and you can enjoy outdoor activities in any season as long as you pack appropriately.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kaikoura

There are different ways to get to Kaikoura in New Zealand. Here are some options: 1. By car: You can drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura, which is roughly a 2-hour drive. You can either rent a car or use your own vehicle.
2. By bus: There are several bus services that operate daily between Christchurch and Kaikoura. Some of the popular bus services include Intercity, Atomic Shuttles, and Kaikoura Shuttle.
3. By train: The Coastal Pacific train service runs between Christchurch and Picton, with a stop at Kaikoura. This is a popular option for those who want to enjoy the scenic journey.
4. By plane: There are no direct flights to Kaikoura. However, you can fly to Christchurch or Blenheim and take a bus, train or drive to Kaikoura.
No matter which option you choose, Kaikoura is a beautiful destination that offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kaikoura, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kaikoura

Sure, here are some typical foods of Kaikoura, New Zealand with a short description for each of them: 1. Crayfish: also known as rock lobster, this is considered Kaikoura's delicacy. The sweet, succulent flesh of the crayfish is best served freshly caught, grilled or boiled with lemon and butter.
2. Paua (abalone): a type of shellfish that is highly prized for its delicate flavor and firm texture. It is commonly eaten raw as sushi or cooked with garlic, herbs and butter.
3. Blue cod: a fish that is commonly found in the waters around Kaikoura. It is often battered and deep-fried, served alongside chips or as part of a fish and chips meal.
4. Whitebait: a small, translucent fish that is typically fried into patties and served as a snack or appetizer. It has a delicate flavor and can be found in the rivers around Kaikoura during the spring season.
5. Venison: a popular meat in New Zealand, venison is often sourced from red deer that roam freely around the countryside. It is lean and rich in flavor, and can be served as steaks, roasts or stews.
6. L&P: a soft drink that originated in New Zealand and is often called "World Famous in New Zealand". L&P is made from lemon juice and carbonated water, and has a distinctive sweet and sour taste.
7. Hokey Pokey ice cream: a classic New Zealand ice cream flavor that features bits of honeycomb toffee mixed in with vanilla ice cream. It has a creamy, crunchy texture and is a popular treat in Kaikoura during the summer months.
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Kaikoura an expensive destination for tourists?

Kaikoura is considered a slightly more expensive tourist destination in New Zealand due to its remote location and unique attractions. However, there are still affordable accommodation and dining options available. In general, the cost of activities such as whale watching and swimming with dolphins can be higher compared to other destinations, but they offer a unique and unforgettable experience. It's always a good idea to plan and budget for your trip in advance to make the most of your time and budget in Kaikoura.

Where to find accomodation in Kaikoura

In Kaikoura, it is best to find accommodation in the town center, as it is located close to the main activities and attractions. Some popular areas include West End, Esplanade, and South Bay. However, if you prefer a more peaceful and scenic setting, you can look for accommodation on the outskirts of town, such as in the Kowhai Valley or nearer to the Kaikoura Peninsula. It ultimately depends on what you are looking for in terms of the specific type of accommodations and the location within Kaikoura.
You can check hotel prices at Kaikoura here:
Booking.com

Is Kaikoura a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kaikoura is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. New Zealand has a very low crime rate in general and Kaikoura is a safe and friendly town. However, it is always important to take basic safety precautions such as not walking in dark or secluded areas alone at night, locking your car and not leaving valuables on display, and being aware of your surroundings. Also, it's important to take note of any safety warnings related to the natural environment, such as tide warnings if you plan to go to the beach, or potential risks associated with hiking.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kaikoura.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kaikoura the most?

Kaikoura is a versatile destination in New Zealand that is suitable for all types of travelers. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will love the scenic beauty and tranquility of the area. Young people looking for fun can indulge in various adventure activities, such as whale watching, swimming with dolphins, kayaking, and surfing. Families can enjoy exploring the local marine wildlife, hiking through scenic trails, and picnicking on the beach.
The town has something for everyone, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Families with young children may need to plan activities that are child-friendly, but there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. After a day of activities, everyone can enjoy the local seafood and hospitality that Kaikoura is known for.

How to get around Kaikoura

There are several options for transportation in Kaikoura, New Zealand. 1. Car rentals - Renting a car allows you to explore the region at your own pace and convenience, and there are several rental options available in Kaikoura itself. 2. Buses - There are regular bus services that run between Kaikoura and Christchurch, Picton and other nearby towns, making it easy to get around even without a car. 3. Taxis and shuttles - Taxis and shuttles are available in Kaikoura for short distances or airport transfers. 4. Cycling - Kaikoura is known for its scenic cycling routes and bike rentals are also available for rent in town. 5. Walking - Kaikoura is a compact town and it's easy to explore on foot, especially if you're staying close to the town center.

What to see around Kaikoura

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kaikoura, New Zealand: 1. Ohau Point Seal Colony 2. Blenheim's wineries 3. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa 4. Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway 5. Waipara Valley Wineries 6. Whale Watch Kaikoura 7. Mount Fyffe 8. Gore Bay 9. Puhi Puhi Valley 10. Hurunui River
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