EATING IN KAIKOURA: OUR FAVOURITES & MUST TRY SPOTS
11 JUNE 2026
Kaikoura is famous for its seafood and the name Kaikoura comes from Te Reo Maori with “kai” meaning food or eating and “koura” meaning crayfish, so Kaikoura = eating crayfish. Crayfish is popular here and caught fresh along the coastline but it’s not just seafood on the menu in Kaikoura as there are so many more types of food like refreshing gelato, amazing burgers, smoked ribs, lots of great cafes and of course fish and chips!
There are lots of places to eat in Kaikoura (more than you’d think for a small town) and these are our favourite spots that we recommend trying.
If you want to make the most of your trip, planning your walks, activities and wildlife experiences can take hours and hours. I’ve created a map with over 700 spots in New Zealand, as well as all the best spots marked in Kaikoura, including walks, viewpoints, cafes and must see spots. Click here to get access!
There are lots of places to eat in Kaikoura (more than you’d think for a small town) and these are our favourite spots that we recommend trying.
If you want to make the most of your trip, planning your walks, activities and wildlife experiences can take hours and hours. I’ve created a map with over 700 spots in New Zealand, as well as all the best spots marked in Kaikoura, including walks, viewpoints, cafes and must see spots. Click here to get access!
Pedro's Coffee & Gelato
Hiku
The orginal BBQ
Also mention cheese and wind and kaikoura peninsula walkway
Flo & Co Cafe
Strawberry Tree
Middlehurt Farm Store
ninns bin
Beach House Eatery
Cafe Encounter
King Tide Eatery
Coopers Catch
Black Rabbit Pizza
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for something to grab and go then a cafe or bakery are your best bet as they have a good selection of cabinet food (sandwiches, sometimes salads, pies). New World is a supermarket which has some grab and go meals too.
Planning a trip to New Zealand?
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!
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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