Best Things to do in Kaikoura

Welcome to Kaikoura, a fantastic place in New Zealand where big mountains meet the ocean! This guide is like a treasure map, and our friend, Whale Watching Kaikoura, will help us find all the cool hidden spots.

Kaikoura is not just a regular town; it’s a magical mix of adventure, relaxing moments, and stories from a long time ago.

Nature lovers will have a blast here – you can watch playful dolphins near the shore or go on a special trip to see huge whales. The mountains and the sea create a beautiful backdrop for our journey. Kaikoura has stories from the Maori people, too, with cool dances and a museum where we can learn about their history.

With Whale Watching Kaikoura as our guide, get ready for an awesome adventure as we explore Kaikoura’s wonders together!

1. Whale Watching

Welcome aboard the Whale Watching adventure, the number one activity in Kaikoura! And no, we’re not biased at all… okay, maybe just a little. 😉

But trust us, this experience is truly worth putting at the top of our list! Lasting around 3.5 hours, our tours offer the incredible opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. As you set sail from the Kaikoura Wharf, keep your eyes peeled for some of the ocean’s most majestic residents.

From sperm whales to humpback whales and pilot whales, you never know who might make a grand appearance. And don’t worry, our boat is equipped with hydrophones, so you can eavesdrop on the whales’ underwater conversations! Alongside the whales, keep an eye out for playful dolphins, lounging seals, and graceful albatrosses soaring overhead. It’s a marine wildlife extravaganza!

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure— book your Whale Watching tour with us today and get ready to embark on a journey you’ll remember for a lifetime.

2. Go on a beautiful sunset kayak trip

Get ready for an epic sunset kayak tour that’s like no other! Join us as we glide along the Kaikoura Mountains, catching the last rays of sunlight as they paint the sky in stunning colors. But here’s where the real magic happens – you’ll be surrounded by playful seals diving and splashing around your kayak, showing off their acrobatic skills. Keep your eyes peeled for these curious creatures as they hunt for octopus, and maybe even paddle alongside them for a bit of marine fun!

But wait, there’s more! As you navigate through the tranquil waters, keep an eye out for blue penguins and majestic albatross soaring above, adding an extra dash of excitement to your adventure. And who knows? You might just have a surprise visit from the playful dusky dolphins, making your evening even more memorable.

Our kayaks are super comfy and easy to steer, so you can focus on soaking in the sights and sounds of Kaikoura’s coastal wonders. Guided by our friendly local experts, you’ll not only learn the ropes of kayaking but also uncover hidden stories of the area’s Maori and whaling history.

This unforgettable tour lasts 3.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and experience the beauty of Kaikoura at sunset. As the day fades away, watch in awe as the light changes and the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience – book your spot now and get ready for an evening you’ll never forget!

3. Discover Kaikōura’s Coastal Walkway

Get ready for an adventure along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway. This family-friendly trail offers something for everyone, whether you’re observing seals and seabirds, exploring historic sites, or soaking in clifftop views of the sea and mountains. The walkway, stretching from the rugged east coast of the South Island, offers a backdrop of towering, snow-capped mountains during winter. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, seals, birds, and even crayfish as you journey through this diverse ecosystem.

Along the walkway, you’ll encounter informative panels detailing the area’s rich history, geology, and wildlife, enriching your experience with valuable insights. The trail crosses the peninsula’s clifftop, treating you to breathtaking views of the Seaward Kaikōura Range, the ocean, and the coastline before looping back to town via South Bay and Toms Track. While parts of the track can be exposed, staying on the formed path and supervising children ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

To fully immerse yourself in the walkway’s features, set aside at least three hours to complete the entire route. Starting from Kaikōura town center, follow the footpath and road verge along The Esplanade, Avoca Street, and Fyffe Quay to Point Kean. Along the way, keep an eye out for interpretation signs sharing stories of ‘Life on the edge,’ offering glimpses into the community’s seaside living.

At Point Kean car park, you may encounter seals, but remember to keep a safe distance of at least 20 meters and use the nearby toilets for convenience. Get ready for an unforgettable journey exploring Kaikōura’s coastal wonders!

4. The Point Sheep Shearing Show

Step into the world of New Zealand sheep shearing with the Point Sheep Shearing Show, where you’ll witness an authentic and up-close demonstration of this traditional practice. Held daily at 1:30 pm, this immersive experience invites you to our family’s third-generation shearing shed for a memorable encounter with our woolly friends.

Get ready to learn all about sheep shearing, from wool types and sheep breeds to the tools and techniques used in the past. Held in an authentic Kiwi shearing shed, the show offers a fascinating insight into this integral part of New Zealand’s agricultural heritage.

But it’s not just about watching – it’s about getting involved! Meet the stars of the show, hold a fluffy lamb, feed a ram, and enjoy plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

As you soak up the atmosphere of the shearing shed, you’ll also meet our furry companions, Stone and Beau, who love nothing more than some extra attention and the chance to pose for the camera. Suitable for all ages, the show is not only educational but also full of fun and interactive experiences that the whole family will enjoy.

5. Kaikoura Museum

Step into the heart of Kaikoura’s history at the Kaikoura Museum, nestled in the iconic “craypot” building in Kaikoura’s West End. Winner of awards for its innovative approach, our museum offers a modern and inviting space where visitors can embark on a captivating journey through the natural, social, and cultural heritage of Kaikoura.

Explore our impressive collections, vibrant exhibitions, and engaging events that showcase the richness of Kaikoura’s unique heritage. From fascinating artifacts to interactive displays, our museum brings to life the diverse and colorful history of Kaikoura, inspiring visitors to delve deeper into its stories.

Whether you’re interested in marine life, Maori culture, or the town’s whaling past, there’s something for everyone at the Kaikoura Museum.