25 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN KAIKOURA
02 FEBRUARY 2026
Kaikoura is one of our favourite towns to visit and explore. This cool seaside town offers a little something for everyone. It's 2.5 hours north of Christchurch and 1.5 hours south of Blenheim in the South Island of New Zealand. If you love bush walks, the ocean, wildlife encounters and seafood, then Kaikoura is the place to be!
In this guide we’ll take you through 25 experiences we think you'll love, from whale watching to star gazing, so you can make the most of your time in this unforgettable corner of New Zealand.
In this guide we’ll take you through 25 experiences we think you'll love, from whale watching to star gazing, so you can make the most of your time in this unforgettable corner of New Zealand.
If you want to make the most of your trip, planning your walks, rides and wildlife experiences in advance really helps and I’ve put created a map with over 600 spots and all the best spots marked in Kaikoura (and all around New Zealand!), including walks, viewpoints, cafes and must see spots. Click here to get access!
1. Get Up Close To Seals On The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is hands down one of the best things to do in Kaikoura! The track wraps its way around the peninsula towards South Bay and is one of the best places in New Zealand to see NZ fur seals. You can see them pretty much the whole way around the peninsula from above and along the shoreline track and if you're in Kaikoura at the right time of year then you may even get to see some seal pups playing in the tidal pools!
Sometimes you can see the seals from the very start of the walk right at the carpark but never guaranteed - sometimes they are actually IN the carpark. No matter how many times we do this track, it always feels so exciting seeing the seals up close.
There are two main ways to walk this track. One follows the coastline, which isn’t a DOC maintained track, so tides and conditions matter here. The other is the clifftop track, which looks down over the rugged coastline and has some seriously good views. At Whalers Bay, stairs connect the clifftop down to the beach, so you can easily mix and match and get the best of both worlds.
This walk is super flexible based on how much time you have in Kaikoura. Because you can often spot seals almost straight away, you don’t need to commit to the full loop and you can walk as far as you like, then turn back or start from either end of the peninsula. In a place where so many experiences come with a price tag, the fact you can do this for free is amazing!
Just a reminder that seals are wild animals so give them plenty of space (at least 20 metres) and always stick to the marked tracks because they do love to chill in long grass and bushes (we have spotted quite a few doing this).
Sometimes you can see the seals from the very start of the walk right at the carpark but never guaranteed - sometimes they are actually IN the carpark. No matter how many times we do this track, it always feels so exciting seeing the seals up close.
There are two main ways to walk this track. One follows the coastline, which isn’t a DOC maintained track, so tides and conditions matter here. The other is the clifftop track, which looks down over the rugged coastline and has some seriously good views. At Whalers Bay, stairs connect the clifftop down to the beach, so you can easily mix and match and get the best of both worlds.
This walk is super flexible based on how much time you have in Kaikoura. Because you can often spot seals almost straight away, you don’t need to commit to the full loop and you can walk as far as you like, then turn back or start from either end of the peninsula. In a place where so many experiences come with a price tag, the fact you can do this for free is amazing!
Just a reminder that seals are wild animals so give them plenty of space (at least 20 metres) and always stick to the marked tracks because they do love to chill in long grass and bushes (we have spotted quite a few doing this).
2. Enjoy Local Food At Kaikoura's Cafes & Restaurants
For a small town, there's a good mix of cafes and restaurants to eat at in Kaikoura. The town is famous for its seafood, especially crayfish - in fact, the word Kaikoura is Te Reo Maori and translate to eat crayfish! You'll see signs for crayfish all over the town, so there are plenty of places to eat it but it does come with a price tag.
Kaikoura Seafood BBQ Kiosk is one of the most popular spots in Kaikoura to eat crayfish and it's on Fyffe Quay, not far from the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. If you're passing through Kaikoura, you will need to take a short detour from the main road to get here.
One of our go to spots to eat in Kaikoura is Hiku which is along the esplanade, under the Sudima Hotel. We love dining in for lunch or dinner and sometimes just go sit in one of the comfy chairs by the window for coffee (the best we had in Kaikoura) & hot chocolate and look out at the view (it's right across the road from the beach). We really enjoyed a seafood platter from here one evening and burger and chips for lunch!
There are quite fish and chip shops in Kaikoura (one of the things New Zealand is known for) and a good spot is Cooper's Catch on West End. I also had the most amazing fish burger from King Tide Eatery on the Esplanade.
One of the best mince and cheese pies I've had in New Zealand (also another thing we're known for - our meat pies) is from the Middlehurst Station Farm Store on West End.
For something sweet, Pedro’s Gelato & coffee is our go to spot for gelato in Kaikoura and they have delicious dairy free gelato too. The one and only Pedro might be laying in front of the shop with his tongue hanging out, ready for a pat - yes, he's a dog! You'll find Pedro's on Beach Road beside Seal Kayak Kaikoura.
Kaikoura isn't a huge town, so it's easy enough to drive up and down the town to see what takes your fancy.
Kaikoura Seafood BBQ Kiosk is one of the most popular spots in Kaikoura to eat crayfish and it's on Fyffe Quay, not far from the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. If you're passing through Kaikoura, you will need to take a short detour from the main road to get here.
One of our go to spots to eat in Kaikoura is Hiku which is along the esplanade, under the Sudima Hotel. We love dining in for lunch or dinner and sometimes just go sit in one of the comfy chairs by the window for coffee (the best we had in Kaikoura) & hot chocolate and look out at the view (it's right across the road from the beach). We really enjoyed a seafood platter from here one evening and burger and chips for lunch!
There are quite fish and chip shops in Kaikoura (one of the things New Zealand is known for) and a good spot is Cooper's Catch on West End. I also had the most amazing fish burger from King Tide Eatery on the Esplanade.
One of the best mince and cheese pies I've had in New Zealand (also another thing we're known for - our meat pies) is from the Middlehurst Station Farm Store on West End.
For something sweet, Pedro’s Gelato & coffee is our go to spot for gelato in Kaikoura and they have delicious dairy free gelato too. The one and only Pedro might be laying in front of the shop with his tongue hanging out, ready for a pat - yes, he's a dog! You'll find Pedro's on Beach Road beside Seal Kayak Kaikoura.
Kaikoura isn't a huge town, so it's easy enough to drive up and down the town to see what takes your fancy.
3. Relax and Unwind in a Sauna By The Beach
If you’re looking for something relaxing to do in Kaikoura, a beachside sauna is the perfect activity. The Sauna Project have a mobile sauna parked beside the beach which is perfect because you can have a sauna, jump into the ocean to cool off, get back in the sauna and keep repeating over the course of an hour. The sauna is heated to a very hot 85 degrees Celsius which sounds lovely to be in whilst looking out at the ocean - bliss!
You'll need to bring 2 towels, a water bottle, footwear and togs (sorry, no nudie rudies in this sauna).
Click here for the location, prices & hours.
You'll need to bring 2 towels, a water bottle, footwear and togs (sorry, no nudie rudies in this sauna).
Click here for the location, prices & hours.
4. Get Panoramic Views From The Kaikoura Lookout
This is one of my favourite spots to visit in Kaikoura. I love the view from up here and the fact that you get to see snow capped mountains right beside the ocean is such a treat for the eyes! There is a water tank that you can walk up to the top of and look across the town and to the other side of the Peninsula, as well as far up and down the coastline on a clear day. The view can get a bit hazy sometimes if there's lots of sea mist around but this is all part of the Kaikoura charm! It's a great spot for sunrise and sunset as well as star gazing.
You can drive up here too which makes it easy to get to if you're passing through Kaikoura and are stretched for time.
Click here for the location on Google Maps.
You can drive up here too which makes it easy to get to if you're passing through Kaikoura and are stretched for time.
Click here for the location on Google Maps.
5. Soar Above Kaikoura On A Zipline
If you’re keen to see Kaikoura from above but can’t quite stomach a plane or helicopter ride then ziplining is a fun alternative. It has all the views, without getting tooooo high.
The Kaikoura EcoZip experience is a 3.5 hour adventure that starts as soon as you get into a unimog and cross over streams to get to the Rakanui Station where the zip lining begins. The station is a 3000 acre working farm and you get 360 degree views at the start of the zip lining track.
The zip lines range from 250m to 620m and are 2.2km length in total. Two guides are with you every step of the way, sharing stories about the land, local history and how EcoZip is helping to restore parts of the Rakanui Station back to native forest.
The experience is suitable for most ages and doesn’t require any special skills.
Click here for more info & prices.
The Kaikoura EcoZip experience is a 3.5 hour adventure that starts as soon as you get into a unimog and cross over streams to get to the Rakanui Station where the zip lining begins. The station is a 3000 acre working farm and you get 360 degree views at the start of the zip lining track.
The zip lines range from 250m to 620m and are 2.2km length in total. Two guides are with you every step of the way, sharing stories about the land, local history and how EcoZip is helping to restore parts of the Rakanui Station back to native forest.
The experience is suitable for most ages and doesn’t require any special skills.
Click here for more info & prices.
6. Learn About Kaikoura’s History and Culture
If you’re new to the area and want to understand the history and culture of Kaikoura, the Kaikoura Museum is a great place to start. It may be on the smaller side compared to city museums but there’s plenty to see and interact with (perfect if you tend to lose interest in museums).
Kaikoura has a big whaling history and the museum does a great job of explaining what went on and how whaling was important for the region. You’ll also see and hear reminders of this history around town, like the Fyffe House foundations that are made from whale bones and the whale bone arches at Anzac Park along the Esplanade.
There’s also a fascinating section on earthquakes. Kaikoura sits right on a fault line and experiences frequent earthquakes - we felt a decent one while staying here! The last major earthquake was in 2016 and it lifted parts of the coastline by around two metres, permanently changing the landscape. Fun fact: the Kaikoura Ranges are still growing by about 1cm every year!
Alongside the big stories, the museum is full of nostalgia and has things like old telephones, a printing press, creatures preserved in glass jars and vintage food packaging.
Click here for more info on the Kaikoura Museum website.
Kaikoura has a big whaling history and the museum does a great job of explaining what went on and how whaling was important for the region. You’ll also see and hear reminders of this history around town, like the Fyffe House foundations that are made from whale bones and the whale bone arches at Anzac Park along the Esplanade.
There’s also a fascinating section on earthquakes. Kaikoura sits right on a fault line and experiences frequent earthquakes - we felt a decent one while staying here! The last major earthquake was in 2016 and it lifted parts of the coastline by around two metres, permanently changing the landscape. Fun fact: the Kaikoura Ranges are still growing by about 1cm every year!
Alongside the big stories, the museum is full of nostalgia and has things like old telephones, a printing press, creatures preserved in glass jars and vintage food packaging.
Click here for more info on the Kaikoura Museum website.
7. Go Four Wheel Driving in the Kaikoura Hills
A great way to explore the Kaikoura countryside and coastline is by 4x4 along the dramatic cliffs on Glenstrae Farm. The farm is situated 20 minutes south of Kaikoura town and you'll absolutely love driving across the farm and through native bush before heading out onto the Haumuri Bluffs where you may see some seals on the rocks below.
The tour offers tea, coffee and cookies before you head up through a creek - be prepared to get wet and muddy on this tour!
You don't need to have any experience to drive the 4x4s as they will teach you how to use them before you head off. If you don't feel like driving then they do have an argo where you can sit back and be a passenger princess while they drive for you! This is a good option for kids.
Click here for more info on the Glenstrae Farm website.
The tour offers tea, coffee and cookies before you head up through a creek - be prepared to get wet and muddy on this tour!
You don't need to have any experience to drive the 4x4s as they will teach you how to use them before you head off. If you don't feel like driving then they do have an argo where you can sit back and be a passenger princess while they drive for you! This is a good option for kids.
Click here for more info on the Glenstrae Farm website.
8. Seafood And Eat It!
Kaikoura is famous for its seafood so you'll see it on almost every menu! We had a seafood platter from Hiku (below the Sudima Hotel on the Esplanade) and it was so delicious! We had deep fried calamari (so tender), snapper ceviche, crayfish we wanted seconds!) and tiger prawn skewers. Oysters were also on the menu but we're not fans of those!
There are plenty of other places to get your seafood fix from like Coopers Catch in the town or Seafood BBQ Kiosk on the way out to the Kaikoura Peninsula Walk.
There are plenty of other places to get your seafood fix from like Coopers Catch in the town or Seafood BBQ Kiosk on the way out to the Kaikoura Peninsula Walk.
9. Visit The Seal Colony At Ohau Point
One of the easiest places to see seals in New Zealand is definitely at the Ohau Point Lookout, 22 minutes north of Kaikoura town. There is a large seal colony that lives right beside the carpark which means no hiking or exploring a random beach to find some. Breeding season is December - February and between April & September you'll see lots of pups playing around.
The lookout is along the main highway between Blenheim and Kaikoura which is great because you can just park up, spend as much or as little time as you need to watch the seals then head on your way. It's perfect if you're limited on time and want to see seals but can't stop in Kaikoura.
Bit of a warning - if the wind is heading your way then you might want to block your nose because it can absolutely stink here!
The lookout is along the main highway between Blenheim and Kaikoura which is great because you can just park up, spend as much or as little time as you need to watch the seals then head on your way. It's perfect if you're limited on time and want to see seals but can't stop in Kaikoura.
Bit of a warning - if the wind is heading your way then you might want to block your nose because it can absolutely stink here!
10. Take A Llama For A Walk!
Kaikoura isn't all whales, dolphins and seals as far as animals go (although let's be honest, that's 80% of it!) and there is some very unique experience with animals that you can do in Kaikoura and that's to go on a llama trek with Kaikoura Llama Trekking!
There are 2 trek options with the 1st one being a 1 hour trek through below Mt Fyffe, through native woodland and along the Kowhai riverbank. The 2nd option is a half day trek where you walk across the beach, along a boardwalk and do sections of the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway (which is one of the best walks to do in Kaikoura!). This trek also includes cake and a hot drink.
All treks are done with a guide and they will share local history and earthquake stories with you. If you're looking for something a little different to do on your trip to Kaikoura then this would be it! Click here for prices and more info.
There are 2 trek options with the 1st one being a 1 hour trek through below Mt Fyffe, through native woodland and along the Kowhai riverbank. The 2nd option is a half day trek where you walk across the beach, along a boardwalk and do sections of the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway (which is one of the best walks to do in Kaikoura!). This trek also includes cake and a hot drink.
All treks are done with a guide and they will share local history and earthquake stories with you. If you're looking for something a little different to do on your trip to Kaikoura then this would be it! Click here for prices and more info.
11. Go Surfing Along The Coast
Surfing is really popular in Kaikoura and I couldn't think of a more beautiful place to give it a go along the stunning coastline with the Kaikoura Ranges behind you.
If you’re new to surfing or just want to give it a go, Kiwi Surf Experience run lessons for anyone aged 12 and over and you can also request a 1 on 1 lesson. They provide boards and wetsuits have a hot outdoor shower and toilet on site.
They also hire out the gear if you're not needing a lesson.
Click here for more info.
If you’re new to surfing or just want to give it a go, Kiwi Surf Experience run lessons for anyone aged 12 and over and you can also request a 1 on 1 lesson. They provide boards and wetsuits have a hot outdoor shower and toilet on site.
They also hire out the gear if you're not needing a lesson.
Click here for more info.
12. Explore The Peninsula And Wildlife By Kayak
One of the best ways to experience Kaikoura is by kayaking along the coastline. It's such a beautiful place to do this with the rocky coastline and mountains in behind you.
From your kayak you could spot New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins, seabirds and little blue penguins. You may even spot a whale in the distance but you won't get close to one like you will the other wildlife. Being up close to this wildlife is such an incredible feeling and there have even been instances where the seals and dolphins have come up RIGHT BESIDE the kayaks!
Whether you want a guided kayaking experience or the freedom to paddle at your own pace, Kaikoura offers two options depending on how you want to explore. The first is option is with Kaikoura Kayaks who offer guided kayak tours, sunset kayak tours and kayak hire if you want to venture out on your own. They also offer stand up paddle boards (SUP) if that takes your fancy a bit more! Click here to check out Kaikoura Kayaks.
The second option is with Seal Kayak Kaikoura who offer the only pedal powered kayaking experience in New Zealand. So instead of using a paddle, you can cruise along by peddling - great to keep your hands free for taking photos or so good if you have mobility issues. Click here to check out Seal Kayak Kaikoura.
From your kayak you could spot New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins, seabirds and little blue penguins. You may even spot a whale in the distance but you won't get close to one like you will the other wildlife. Being up close to this wildlife is such an incredible feeling and there have even been instances where the seals and dolphins have come up RIGHT BESIDE the kayaks!
Whether you want a guided kayaking experience or the freedom to paddle at your own pace, Kaikoura offers two options depending on how you want to explore. The first is option is with Kaikoura Kayaks who offer guided kayak tours, sunset kayak tours and kayak hire if you want to venture out on your own. They also offer stand up paddle boards (SUP) if that takes your fancy a bit more! Click here to check out Kaikoura Kayaks.
The second option is with Seal Kayak Kaikoura who offer the only pedal powered kayaking experience in New Zealand. So instead of using a paddle, you can cruise along by peddling - great to keep your hands free for taking photos or so good if you have mobility issues. Click here to check out Seal Kayak Kaikoura.
13. Experience Whales Up Close On A Cruise
This is hands down the best experience we have had in Kaikoura! To head out towards the underwater Kaikoura Canyon which drops down to 600m (2000m when it meets the Hikurangi Trench further out) and watch along the waters surface to see any fins or tails from whales is such a great feeling of anticipation and excitement.
The team at Kaikoura Whale Watch always have eyes on the water, scanning for any whales coming up to the surface and then they cruise the boat over so you can get up close to the whales. We were so lucky on the day that we went on our whale cruise because we saw so many humpback whales as well as sea birds, a seal thrashing around an octopus and a crazy amount of dusky dolphins!
This is absolutely one of the top experiences in Kaikoura and one that should be on every traveller's itinerary! Click here for more info.
The team at Kaikoura Whale Watch always have eyes on the water, scanning for any whales coming up to the surface and then they cruise the boat over so you can get up close to the whales. We were so lucky on the day that we went on our whale cruise because we saw so many humpback whales as well as sea birds, a seal thrashing around an octopus and a crazy amount of dusky dolphins!
This is absolutely one of the top experiences in Kaikoura and one that should be on every traveller's itinerary! Click here for more info.
14. Watch a Sheep Shearing Show
New Zealand is known for its sheep - in fact, they outnumber us 5 to 1! If you're looking for a unique kiwi experience and something fun, you can watch a sheep shearing show at The Point in a real shearing shed.
The show includes sheep shearing (you'd hope so!), getting to know the equipment they use and information on wool types. There are also 2 working dogs, Stone & Beau, who love meeting new people! During lambing season there may be a cute lamb for you to cuddle.
It's something a little different and is a show for all ages. They run the show at 1.30pm each day at The Point campsite. Click here for more info.
The show includes sheep shearing (you'd hope so!), getting to know the equipment they use and information on wool types. There are also 2 working dogs, Stone & Beau, who love meeting new people! During lambing season there may be a cute lamb for you to cuddle.
It's something a little different and is a show for all ages. They run the show at 1.30pm each day at The Point campsite. Click here for more info.
15. Try Your Luck at Fishing
If you love getting out on the water, fishing in Kaikoura is a great experience where there is an abundance of fish species including grouper, crayfish, bluecod, tuna, tarakihi, and kahawai.
There are quite a few fishing charter companies in Kaikoura and they provide all the fishing gear, bait and tackle, so there’s no need to bring your own equipment. Many operators also include hot drinks onboard and some go a step further by offering a BBQ at sea! There are half day and full day trips available and are all beginner friendly.
You may even spot a whale or dolphins while you're out on the water!
There are quite a few fishing charter companies in Kaikoura and they provide all the fishing gear, bait and tackle, so there’s no need to bring your own equipment. Many operators also include hot drinks onboard and some go a step further by offering a BBQ at sea! There are half day and full day trips available and are all beginner friendly.
You may even spot a whale or dolphins while you're out on the water!
16. Take A Stroll Through ANZAC Park
ANZAC Park is a small park located along the Esplanade in Kaikoura. It stands out because of the whale bones that frame the path through the park. Kaikoura has a rich whaling history (as do many towns in New Zealand) as they used to be a great source of food, materials and helped shape the town's economy. These days, whales are protected so hunting is illegal.
The park is a nice place to sit in the shade in summer and have a picnic or simply admire the whale bones. The park is filled with people on the 25th of April, remembering those killed in war and honouring those who returned - this is what ANZAC day is all about.
The park is a nice place to sit in the shade in summer and have a picnic or simply admire the whale bones. The park is filled with people on the 25th of April, remembering those killed in war and honouring those who returned - this is what ANZAC day is all about.
17. Visit the Historic Fyffe House
Fyffe House is a small but significant museum and heritage site that tells the story of Kaikoura’s whaling history. It is one of the oldest buildings in Kaikoura and the home rests on piles made from the vertebrae of a southern right whale!
Inside, the rooms are furnished to reflect different periods of the house’s history, with period furniture, photographs and original documents on display. You can learn about Kaikoura's whaling industry, the use of whale vertebrae as foundations and the daily lives of the families who lived in the house.
It's located on Avoca Ave, heading out to the peninsula, which makes it an easy stop if you're on your way to do the Kaikoura Peninsula Track. It's easy to spot as it's pink!
Inside, the rooms are furnished to reflect different periods of the house’s history, with period furniture, photographs and original documents on display. You can learn about Kaikoura's whaling industry, the use of whale vertebrae as foundations and the daily lives of the families who lived in the house.
It's located on Avoca Ave, heading out to the peninsula, which makes it an easy stop if you're on your way to do the Kaikoura Peninsula Track. It's easy to spot as it's pink!
18. Watch The Sunrise
We get some amazing sunrises in New Zealand and with Kaikoura being on the east coast, here are 3 great spots to watch the sunrise from.
The first spot is from the Kaikoura Lookout which is a 5 min drive from town or 35 minute walk. There is a bench seat and viewing platform up here and you'll get views right across the peninsula and across the Kaikoura Ranges which would look spectacular in winter with the colours of the sunrise on the snowy mountains.
The second spot is from the beach - you're spoilt for choice with beaches in Kaikoura so take your pick!
The third spot is from the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway along the clifftop track which would offer some pretty amazing views for sunrise.
Wherever you choose to watch the sunrise from, I hope it's a magical one!
The first spot is from the Kaikoura Lookout which is a 5 min drive from town or 35 minute walk. There is a bench seat and viewing platform up here and you'll get views right across the peninsula and across the Kaikoura Ranges which would look spectacular in winter with the colours of the sunrise on the snowy mountains.
The second spot is from the beach - you're spoilt for choice with beaches in Kaikoura so take your pick!
The third spot is from the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway along the clifftop track which would offer some pretty amazing views for sunrise.
Wherever you choose to watch the sunrise from, I hope it's a magical one!
19. Eat Fish And Chips On The Beach
Did you even visit New Zealand if you didn’t eat fish and chips on the beach? It’s a classic Kiwi favourite and something that you'll see quite often on beaches in the evening.
There are a few fish and chip shops in town, but Coopers Catch is one of the most popular and our go to. We like to order from here and head down to the beach (it’s only a few minutes away by car) for lunch or dinner and enjoy the view.
There are a few fish and chip shops in town, but Coopers Catch is one of the most popular and our go to. We like to order from here and head down to the beach (it’s only a few minutes away by car) for lunch or dinner and enjoy the view.
20. Go On A Scenic Hike
There are a few great walking tracks in Kaikoura and they're all unique from each other which I love.
The Kaikoura Peninsula Track takes you from one side of the peninsula to the other and along the way you get stunning views from the clifftop track. There is a set of stairs along the track that take you down to the shore where you can see New Zealand fur seals all year long! There is a track along the shore also but it's not maintained by DOC (Department of Conservation) and it requires navigation along the rocks & low tide. This is a great option though, if you want to see the seals but don't have time to do the whole track, as there are seals right at the beginning of the track but sometimes you do need to walk 10 or 15 minutes in to see them.
If you're looking for a bush walk then the Hinau Track is a lovely loop track through the bush. It's not the most exciting track but if you love nature and want to stretch your legs then this is a great track. It is at the base of Mt Fyffe and is covered so it's a good option on a rainy day.
From the same carpark as the Hinau Track, you can hike up Mt Fyffe. How far up you want to go is up to you but there is a lookout around 1 hour into the track where you get sweeping views across Kaikoura and across the ocean. It is an uphill slog the whole way but the views are worth it!
The Kaikoura Peninsula Track takes you from one side of the peninsula to the other and along the way you get stunning views from the clifftop track. There is a set of stairs along the track that take you down to the shore where you can see New Zealand fur seals all year long! There is a track along the shore also but it's not maintained by DOC (Department of Conservation) and it requires navigation along the rocks & low tide. This is a great option though, if you want to see the seals but don't have time to do the whole track, as there are seals right at the beginning of the track but sometimes you do need to walk 10 or 15 minutes in to see them.
If you're looking for a bush walk then the Hinau Track is a lovely loop track through the bush. It's not the most exciting track but if you love nature and want to stretch your legs then this is a great track. It is at the base of Mt Fyffe and is covered so it's a good option on a rainy day.
From the same carpark as the Hinau Track, you can hike up Mt Fyffe. How far up you want to go is up to you but there is a lookout around 1 hour into the track where you get sweeping views across Kaikoura and across the ocean. It is an uphill slog the whole way but the views are worth it!
21. Watch the Stars In An International Dark Sky Sanctuary
New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to star gaze and Kaikoura is one of the best places in the country to view it. In September 2024 Kaikoura became part of the International Dark Sky Sanctuary which basically means there is low light pollution so it's easy to see the stars clearly.
You get an amazing view of the Milky Way and can see shooting stars and planets. One place to view them is at the Kaikoura Lookout (which you can drive to) and enjoy them from up there. There are phone/camera holders at the lookout to put your device into and capture a star trail. There's even instructions on how to capture them! Away from houses and buildings is the best place to see the stars so you're away from the light.
If you want to do a guided star gazing tour, check out Moana Skies in Kaikoura who have experienced guides and powerful telescopes to see the night sky.
You get an amazing view of the Milky Way and can see shooting stars and planets. One place to view them is at the Kaikoura Lookout (which you can drive to) and enjoy them from up there. There are phone/camera holders at the lookout to put your device into and capture a star trail. There's even instructions on how to capture them! Away from houses and buildings is the best place to see the stars so you're away from the light.
If you want to do a guided star gazing tour, check out Moana Skies in Kaikoura who have experienced guides and powerful telescopes to see the night sky.
22. Take A Scenic Flight Over Kaikoura
Kaikoura has such a dramatic coastline with the rugged rocks, blue water and lush green mountains almost spilling into the sea and one of the coolest ways to experience this coastline is with a scenic flight.
Air Kaikoura take you over the seaward Kaikoura Range, past My Fyffe and Blue Duck Valley and along the coastline. They offer 15 minute (coast and mountain views), 25 minute (coast, mountain views, inland valleys and seals) and 35 minute flights (coastline, valleys and surf breaks).
They also offer whale watching flights where you can soar high about the Kaikoura coastline and look down and hopefully spot one of the beautiful whales that either live in the area or are migrating through Kaikoura. Sightings are never guaranteed as nature is going to do what it wants but they do spot them a lot! You are quite far from the whales, so using binoculars and a telephone lense on your camera is ideal. If you want to get right up close to them then go on a whale watching boat cruise.
Click here for learn more.
Air Kaikoura take you over the seaward Kaikoura Range, past My Fyffe and Blue Duck Valley and along the coastline. They offer 15 minute (coast and mountain views), 25 minute (coast, mountain views, inland valleys and seals) and 35 minute flights (coastline, valleys and surf breaks).
They also offer whale watching flights where you can soar high about the Kaikoura coastline and look down and hopefully spot one of the beautiful whales that either live in the area or are migrating through Kaikoura. Sightings are never guaranteed as nature is going to do what it wants but they do spot them a lot! You are quite far from the whales, so using binoculars and a telephone lense on your camera is ideal. If you want to get right up close to them then go on a whale watching boat cruise.
Click here for learn more.
23. Swim with Dolphins or Seals
Kaikoura is one of the few places in New Zealand where you can get in the water and swim with seals and dolphins. It's an experience like no other, watching them swim around under the surface of the water in their natural environment (and maybe around you if they're curious enough) which is a totally different experience than seeing them from above the water.
The most common dolphin you will see are the dusky dolphins (we saw loads of these on our whale watch cruise in Kaikoura) and the dolphin tours operate all year round. The seal swims are operated from either a boat or near to shore, where you'll see the magnificent New Zealand fur seals, looping and darting around.
All the gear is provided on the tours and wildlife sightings are never guaranteed but you're in a great location to be able to see them.
Click here for Seal Swim Kaikoura
Click here for Dolphin Encounter
The most common dolphin you will see are the dusky dolphins (we saw loads of these on our whale watch cruise in Kaikoura) and the dolphin tours operate all year round. The seal swims are operated from either a boat or near to shore, where you'll see the magnificent New Zealand fur seals, looping and darting around.
All the gear is provided on the tours and wildlife sightings are never guaranteed but you're in a great location to be able to see them.
Click here for Seal Swim Kaikoura
Click here for Dolphin Encounter
24. Hike the Kaikoura Coastal Track
Kaikoura is a great place for cycling, with a mix of easy rides and more challenging mountain tracks. Most of the trails are good to ride all year round and it's such a peaceful way to explore Kaikoura.
The Kaikoura Trail is a 40 - 48 km loop around rivers and farmland with easy grades and glimpses of the mountains and coast. For a more scenic ride, the Kaiterau Trail winds through native bush and climbs toward Mt Fyffe, while the Puhi Puhi Valley offers gravel roads and high country views. For more experienced riders, the Clarence Reserve is a long, remote adventure with big climbs and dramatic river valleys.
Even biking alongside the beaches in Kaikoura is lovely and you can bike from town out to the peninsula where you can see the seals on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway (you'll need to park the bike up!)
You can hire bikes from Coastal Sports in Kaikoura. To learn more about biking trails in Kaikoura, click here.
The Kaikoura Trail is a 40 - 48 km loop around rivers and farmland with easy grades and glimpses of the mountains and coast. For a more scenic ride, the Kaiterau Trail winds through native bush and climbs toward Mt Fyffe, while the Puhi Puhi Valley offers gravel roads and high country views. For more experienced riders, the Clarence Reserve is a long, remote adventure with big climbs and dramatic river valleys.
Even biking alongside the beaches in Kaikoura is lovely and you can bike from town out to the peninsula where you can see the seals on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway (you'll need to park the bike up!)
You can hire bikes from Coastal Sports in Kaikoura. To learn more about biking trails in Kaikoura, click here.
25. Play a Round of Golf
I'm not a golfer but I have visited golf clubs all around New Zealand because they usually have nice cafes with great views and Kaikoura is one of those golf clubs with fantastic views!
The club is on the edge of town, on West End Road on the Southside. It has views across the Kaikoura Range and out to the Pacific Ocean. It's a 9 hole course and non members are welcome to play.
Click here for more info.
The club is on the edge of town, on West End Road on the Southside. It has views across the Kaikoura Range and out to the Pacific Ocean. It's a 9 hole course and non members are welcome to play.
Click here for more info.
Final Thoughts
Kaikoura is an incredibly beautiful and special area which we love visiting time and time again. The nature here really is something else and the wildlife is so easy to get close to which is amazing! It's a place that will capture your heart and keep you out in nature, soaking in the sunrises and watching the night sky. It's an ideal location for all ages from families to those who’ve earned a few more wrinkles but still love an adventure.
If you want to make the most of your trip, planning your walks, rides and wildlife experiences in advance really helps and I’ve put created a map with over 600 spots and all the best spots marked in Kaikoura (and all around New Zealand!), including walks, viewpoints, cafes and must see spots. Click here to get access!
If you want to make the most of your trip, planning your walks, rides and wildlife experiences in advance really helps and I’ve put created a map with over 600 spots and all the best spots marked in Kaikoura (and all around New Zealand!), including walks, viewpoints, cafes and must see spots. Click here to get access!
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Whether you’re exploring solo, traveling with family, or adventuring with friends, we provide personalized support and local knowledge every step of the way. Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect routes, and unlock the best experiences New Zealand has to offer, all in one place.
Ready to start planning your perfect New Zealand adventure?
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We’ve got you covered with everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. From fully customized itineraries tailored to your interests and group, to expert consultations, detailed maps and insider travel guides — our services take the stress out of planning so you can focus on enjoying your journey. Because we have such an in depth knowledge of travelling New Zealand (full time since 2022!) we're able to offer so much insight into what makes New Zealand so special and where go, beyond the guide books.
Whether you’re exploring solo, traveling with family, or adventuring with friends, we provide personalized support and local knowledge every step of the way. Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect routes, and unlock the best experiences New Zealand has to offer, all in one place.
Ready to start planning your perfect New Zealand adventure?
Click here to explore our services and get started!
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