Top 8 ‘Must-Do’s’ in Kaikōura
The perfect rainy day activity, the Kaikoura Museum offers an exciting array of exhibitions and displays. Highlighting the region’s diverse heritage, the museum often hosts events and exciting temporary exhibitions.
1. Kaikōura Museum
8. Kaikōura Kayaks
7. Swim With Dolphins
2. Fur Seal Colonies
3. Fresh Seafood
4. Kaikōura Beach
5. Peninsula Walkway
6. Whale Watching
Undoubtedly one of the best places to spot fur seals in their natural habitat, Kaikōura is home to dozens of seal colonies.
There are many places to spot seals along the coastline, with one of the easiest being a 30-minute drive North of Kaikōura on State Highway 1. Ohau Point Seal Colony is one of the largest colonies, and while you can’t walk down to see them, it’s easy to spot them from afar! As you watch the seals playing in the waves and sunbathing on the rocks, it’s easy to lose track of time.
A trip to Kaikōura is certainly not complete without indulging in some of the delicious fresh seafood that the town is known for.
There are a number of restaurants to dine at in Kaikōura, whether you are looking for a classic Kiwi meal or a more formal dining experience.
Popular with swimmers in the summer months, Kaikōura Beach is a spectacular place for a walk. Enjoy scenic views across the ocean with the surrounding mountains providing a spectacular backdrop. If you’re brave enough to go for a dip, the Southern end of the beach is a safe spot for swimming.
With various tracks to choose from, you can walk for as long or as little as you like. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you walk – you might be lucky enough to spot whales, dolphins, seals and an array of birds from the walkway!
New Zealand’s ultimate marine experience! Equipped with specially designed catamarans, Whale Watch Kaikoura offers an exciting and personal encounter with Giant Sperm Whales. Often, tours are lucky to also spot other marine life, such as Hector and Dusky dolphins and New Zealand Fur Seal.
Swimming with dolphins in their natural environment is a truly life-changing experience! Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura is a must-do for marine animal lovers. For those who would rather stay above water, you can enjoy the view from the comfort of a purpose-built vessel. Enjoy a spectacular dolphin show as dusky dolphins are among the most acrobatic of the dolphin species!
Kaikōura Kayaks is NZ’s only kayak company that offers you the chance to see whales and dolphins, alongside fur seals! Your highly skilled guides will take you on the adventure of a lifetime, with 100% guaranteed seal sightings. Choose from a range of different guided tours, including family-friendly options.
Strawberry Tree is a cosy restaurant with an indoor fire for the cooler months and a large outdoor beer garden for the summer. Offering a varied menu including crayfish, mussels, burgers and classic fish and chips, Strawberry Tree is a popular spot in the centre of town.
Cods and Crayfish is the ultimate stop for fish and chips in Kaikoura! With fish arriving fresh off the boat each day, you can even choose your own to be cooked from the live display cabinet. As the name suggests, the shop also specialises in other seafood delicacies such as crayfish and mussels. Sit outside, soak in the sun and enjoy this classic Kiwi fish and chip experience.
Looking for the perfect place to stay?
A Room With A View has comfortable rooms, pet-friendly and centrally located accommodation with spectacular views across Kaikōura.
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