Top things to do in Kaikoura

Formerly a hub for whaling in the distant past, Kaikoura is now widely regarded as one of the best Sperm Whale watching venues in the world – and one that remains far more accessible to the public than similar alternatives.

Another living example of why the Kaikoura region is renowned as a premier NZ hotspot for wildlife, this popular – and free – attraction is a magical little animal encounter entirely bereft of any kind of cage or enclosure.

Location: Kaikoura Peninsula

Home to what is arguably one of the best sunrises and sunsets in all of New Zealand, the view as the sun rises and goes down over Kaikoura is amazing, with its colourful glow enhancing what is already a wonderfully scenic panorama.

With breathtaking hues of pink and orange, it’s a simple yet enchanting display of nature at work.

For a top vantage point, head to your choice of the Kaikoura Rocks, Kaikoura lookout on Scarborough Street, or the Point Kean viewpoint, for a spectacular scene as the sky’s light and shadow dapples over the rugged rocks and glistening water.

Wildlife lovers will enjoy the chance to get up close with the local wildlife on 2.5-hour Albatross and sea bird watching tours in Kaikoura. These wildlife cruises run twice a day at 9am and 1pm and are a Kaikoura activity the whole family can enjoy.

Location: Kaikoura Peninsula

One of the signature highlights along the aforementioned Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, the Point Kean Seal Colony is often home to dozens of these lovely critters.

With easy accessibility from the Point Keal car park you will be treated to incredible panoramic views of the Kaikoura coastline and township against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains; photographers will want to ensure they bring their camera along for the journey!

The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway features a cheeky seal colony at Point Kean. The vantage point from the cliff walkway will give you an aerial view over the seal colony.

The seals are in the area entirely of their own volition – without any enclosures as they are wild animals – therefore visitors are asked to keep at least a 10 metre distance from the animals for both your safety and theirs.

This is truly an incredible experience with the opportunity for close encounters with seals in a natural setting.

Location: Peninsula Walkway, Kaikoura

A wonderful way to take in all the beauty of Kaikoura’s mountain-and-sea environment completely free of charge, this three-hour return journey will take you along the Kaikoura Peninsula via a well-maintained brick walkway.

With various stops along the way at the likes of wildlife clusters, lookouts and more, you’ll be able to experience the region’s variety firsthand.

This three-hour return journey will take you along the Kaikoura Peninsula via a well-maintained walkway. Catch a glimpse of migrating whales, sea birds, dolphins and seals!

This walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels and can be explored at your own, comfortable pace, taking the time to read about the region’s environment and natural history on a number of curated plaques distributed throughout.

The main walk begins in the Kaikoura township and offers several potential offshoot walks to take as well, making it easy to create your own ideal walk.

Location: 7371, 2017 SH 1, Half Moon Bay, Kaikoura

If you’re a fan of seafood – as most are who put Kaikoura on their New Zealand travel itinerary – this little dining hub is an essential stop.

Located right on the waterfront around 20 minutes north of Kaikoura following a gorgeous drive.

If you’re a fan of seafood this little dining hub in Kaikoura is an essential stop. Nin’s Bin has long been one of the most popular eateries in the region, and a favourite amongst locals.

Serving up a delicious menu of only two items; mussels and crayfish (along with some quality chips as well), there are few better simple pleasures Kaikoura offers than ordering some fresh seafood, plopping down on a table in the sunshine, and watching wild seals lazing on the shoreline nearby. And it’s very reasonably-priced, too.

Location: Kaikoura, NZ

For a combined dose of natural beauty and historic insight, embark on a guided tour around this intriguing limestone sea cave to the south of Kaikoura proper.

First discovered in 1958, Maori Leap Cave has now become a top tourist attraction, with 45-minute guided tours through the cave run on the hour throughout the day.

The cave is made up of stalactites, stalagmites, straws, flowstone and cave coral, making for some interesting discovery and observing its various sea-wave-carved shapes and formations.

With the help of a tour guide you’ll learn all about this rare natural occurrence that ranks as only one of three of its kind in the known world.

Joining in the tour is mandatory due to safety reasons and self-exploration is not possible, however, the reasonable price makes for an enjoyable way to soak in millions of years of history in a single place.