Kaikoura
Kaikoura in Canterbury, New Zealand is a small coastal seaside resort town and a very popular destination for both local and international travellers. Kaikoura is well know for its crayfish and marine life and famous for whale watching and swimming with the dolphins. Kaikoura is situated midway between Christchurch and Picton on the east coast of the South Island and is close to the rugged mountain range running the length of New Zealand. more
Kaikoura is about 2 hours drive from Christchurch and 2 hours drive from Picton. The drive in either direction offers stunning coastal scenery for large parts of the journey. The Tranz Coastal Pacific train is an alternative way of getting to Kaikoura and is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
With a population of about 4,000, Kaikoura has a fascinating history with whaling established the town in 1843. Whaling ceased in 1964 and the township turned to its marine attractions to establish a wide range of water based tourism activities as well as other eco-tourism orientated activities.
The weather in Kaikoura varies from about 10 degrees Celsius in winter to an average of 22 degrees Celsius in summer.
There is plenty to see and do in Kaikoura including whale watching, swimming with the dolphins, walks, fishing, bird watching, visiting the seal colony, shopping, dining and generally relaxing by the sea. Fishing in Kaikoura is considered some of the best in New Zealand, and it is this bounty that attracts so many whales and dolphins to its shores.
Accommodation in Kaikoura is extensive with a good selection of hotels, motels, apartments through to backpackers and budget accommodation.
Kaikoura is part of the popular and scenic Alpine Pacific Triangle, a touring route which links it with the Hurunui district including Hanmer and Christchurch.
Fur seals lounge on rocks just metres from the shore, dusky and Hector's dolphins frolic in the sea within sight of town, while only a few kilometres further out, giant sperm whales haunt the depths.
Take a moment to send a Kaikoura related E-Postcard to your friends.
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Attractions and Activities
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ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Viewing multiple species of albatross and other spectacular seabirds is what the Albatross Encounter tour offers. Just a short distance from shore and you will see more albatross species than in any other coastal location on earth, distinguishing Kaikoura as a unique birdwatching location. Stunning photography opportunities are guaranteed with excellent commentary from our experienced guides.
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- +64 3 319 6777
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- 0800 733 365 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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ALPINE PACIFIC MOTELS AND HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
ALPINE PACIFIC MOTELS AND HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Kaikoura Accommodation set in picturesque, quiet, rural setting with stunning mountain views, but still only 400 metres from Kaikoura township. Excellent selection of accommodation, cabins, en-suites and motels, with park facilities for powered campervan or tent sites. Facilities include heated pool and spas, wireless Internet and high pressure showers. 4.5 star rating for holiday park and 4 stars for Motels.
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- +64 3 319 6275
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- 0800 692 322 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 69 Beach Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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AMAZING NEW ZEALAND - The Itinerary Specialist
AMAZING NEW ZEALAND - The Itinerary Specialist
Creating innovative and imaginative self-drive itineraries tailored to your own requirements. If you have a desire to indulge your senses with spectacular food and gold medal wines during your visit, then this is the itinerary for you - a self-drive tour of New Zealand created specially for lovers of great food and fine wine.
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- +64 9 428 4668
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- 66 Beauvoir Ave, Matakatia, Whangaparaoa, Auckland, New Zealand
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ANCHOR INN BEACHFRONT Motel- Kaikoura
ANCHOR INN BEACHFRONT Motel- Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Award-winning motel accommodation, superbly located on Kaikoura waterfront, within close proximity to township and Kaikoura's better restaurants. 15 spacious, well-appointed units providing choice of Executive, Superb view and Standard studios as well as one and two-bedroom family apartments. All rooms fully self-contained, climate controlled and double-glazed for maximum comfort. Most rooms enjoy magnificent sea and mountain views. Sky Guest select.
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- +64 3 319 5426
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- 0800 720 033 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 208 The Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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ARTISTS RETREAT - Kaikoura
ARTISTS RETREAT - Kaikoura
Welcome to the Artists Retreat, a unique, cozy and private, 2-storey, 3 bedroom timber house that overlooks the Kaikoura township and rolling farmlands. Perched up on a small hill with amazing views from all windows including the Pacific Ocean on the left & Seaward mountains behind. No, you don't need to be an Artist to stay or enjoy it here!
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- +64 3 319 7400
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- +64 27 627 4115
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- 593 Kincaid Road, Hapuku, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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AWATEA COUNTRY BED AND BREAKFAST - Kaikoura
AWATEA COUNTRY BED AND BREAKFAST - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Awatea Country Bed and Breakfast is a purpose-built B&B with four spacious, sunny guest rooms, a spacious lounge, dining area, and courtyard separate from the owner's private living area. Nestled in rural Kaikoura countryside, Awatea delivers spectacular views of the South Pacific, as well as unforgettable images of the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges.
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- +64 3 319 7075
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- +64 21 318 759
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- 29 Skevingtons Road, RD1 Hapuku, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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BELLA VISTA MOTEL - Kaikoura
BELLA VISTA MOTEL - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Bella Vista Motel invites visitors to Kaikoura to experience its friendly service and modern units at competitive rates. 18 superior, self-contained and fully serviced units, including spa bath units. Town centre 5 minutes walk. Access units. High speed Internet service. Kaikoura is NZs popular eco-tourism destination. Qualmark 4 Star rated. Bronze Enviro award.
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- +64 3 319 7959
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- 0800 235 528 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 45 - 47 Churchill Street, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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CANOPY CAMPING ESCAPES - Camp Kekerengu, Kaikoura Coast
CANOPY CAMPING ESCAPES - Camp Kekerengu, Kaikoura Coast
Mobile-friendly - Situated three hours from Christchurch, half way between Blenheim and Kaikoura is Camp Kekerengu. Set on the majestic Kaikoura Coast, sheep and beef farm, Ngaio Downs, you'll feel a million miles from anywhere as you gaze out to the ocean from your luxury tent. With three large tents, sleeping up to 11, this is the perfect campsite for groups.
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- 4799 State Highway 1, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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CHEEKY KEA TOURS - South Island
CHEEKY KEA TOURS - South Island
We have an adventure package to suit EVERYONE! Touring isn't just a job for us, it's a lifestyle! We are local, we are fun and we love adventure, so who better to guide you on your epic South Island adventure tour than us!?
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- +64 22 608 8318
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- Christchurch, New Zealand
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CLASSIC CAR TOURS - South Island New Zealand
CLASSIC CAR TOURS - South Island New Zealand
Mobile-friendly - Escorted, customised tours driving our Jaguar, MG and Alfa Romeo classic and modern sports cars, or yours. Enjoy up to five different cars touring the wonderful uncrowded roads of the South Island. Day or multi day trips on set dates or to your choice, taking in delightful destinations, riveting roads, characterful company, delicious dining, affable accommodation and stunning scenery!
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DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - The dusky dolphins of Kaikoura are known as the "acrobats of the sea" due to their displays of brilliant leaps and somersaults, quite typical dusky behaviour. This tour operates all year-round and two options are available - swimming with the dolphins or remaining on board the boat to enjoy the spectacle. All swimming-equipment supplied and advance bookings are essential.
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- +64 3 319 6777
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- 0800 733 365 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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DONEGAL HOUSE - Kaikoura
DONEGAL HOUSE - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - With 28 newly-built guest rooms, (all with private en suite bathroom) magnificent gardens, licensed restaurant and a homely Irish bar, we know your stay at Donegal House will become a memory recalled with delight. Donegal House is close to Kaikoura's unique attractions with the town centre only a few minutes away. New onsite campervan park with 43 power sites.
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- +64 3 319 5083
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- 0800 346 873 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- Schoolhouse Road, RD 1, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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GAY TRAVEL NZ - New Zealand
GAY TRAVEL NZ - New Zealand
Gay Travel NZ is New Zealand's only Gay Inbound Tour Operator, helping our discerning LGBTQ clients from around the World in booking Gay-Friendly Accommodations. We design itineraries, based on your budget and what you wish to see and do. With our knowledge, we are here to assist you with Flights and to design your perfect Vacation to New Zealand.
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HASSLE-FREE KAIKOURA TOUR
HASSLE-FREE KAIKOURA TOUR
Mobile-friendly - Hassle Free Tours provides a full day tour that includes a scenic drive from Christchurch over the Canterbury plains before arriving in Kaikoura. On this tour, you'll have time to explore Kaikoura, go on tour with Whale Watch Kaikoura, and visit to a seal colony. This tour will be informative and entertaining with commentary from our local kiwi guides.
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- +64 3 385 5775
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- 0800 553 554 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 296 Prestons Road, Marshland, Christchurch, New Zealand Make an Enquiry
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HASSLE-FREE SCENIC TOURS - Christchurch
HASSLE-FREE SCENIC TOURS - Christchurch
Join our friendly team for a unique and memorable tour experience throughout Christchurch & Canterbury. Whether you're looking for; a scenic experience, a 4WD or jetboat adventure, a Lord of the Rings filming location visit, an 'up-close' encounter with a whale or want to see Christchurch from the top of a double decker bus, we have something to suit everyone!
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- +64 3 385 5775
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- 0800 553 554 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 296 Prestons Road, Marshland, Christchurch, New Zealand Make an Enquiry
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KAIKOURA CAR RENTALS - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA CAR RENTALS - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Car Hire in Kaikoura: We can arrange to meet and greet at Railway, Bus, Airfield or Accommodation for pickup & return. Our rates start at $95 per-day, including insurance and mileage. Vehicles to be refuelled upon return. You will need a valid license and credit-card for our security to hire a vehicle. All our vehicles are auto. Bookings are essential.
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- +64 3 319 3311
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- 108 Schoolhouse Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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KAIKOURA COAST SEAL COLONY WALK - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA COAST SEAL COLONY WALK - Kaikoura
Oahu Point is 20km north of Kaikoura, and you cannot miss it if you are driving south from Picton. You'll start seeing seals swimming near the coast as you get close to Oahu, where some rocks offer a perfect shelter for fur seals and their puppies.
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KAIKOURA FISHING TOURS - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA FISHING TOURS - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Kaikoura Fishing Tours for Crayfish and Fishing Charters with Captain Tomo. One hour to full day trips available with full Penn gear supplied and toilet and cooking facilities onboard. Dive and scenic trips also available. Eco friendly - we take only what we need. Catch filleted and bagged ready for the pan or if preferred, catch and release.
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- +64 27 524 5687 (027 KAIKOURA)
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- 0800 2 HOOK UP (0800 2 466587) (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 24 Moa Road, South Bay, Kaikoura
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KAIKOURA KAYAKS - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA KAYAKS - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Kaikoura's Original Kayak Operator Est 1998 - Celebrating 20 years in service. 100% Success rate for Seal Viewing! Join our award winning tour. Paddle with playful Fur Seals, chance encounters with Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins. 1/2 day guided 'Seal Kayaking' tours suitable for all ages and abilities. Family’s welcome, no experience needed. TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2018.
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- +64 21 462 889
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- 0800 452 456 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 19 Killarney Street, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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KAIKOURA LLAMA TREKKING - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA LLAMA TREKKING - Kaikoura
Kaikoura Llama Trekking includes spectacular views of the Kaikoura mountain ranges, North Island, and Kaikoura peninsular. The half-day trek include a coastal trek along the Kaikoura Bay, a visit to Fyffe House, peninsular seal colony and a free picnic with hot/cold drinks and homemade cake! The full-day trek is a high country trek on private land.
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- +64 3 319 5033
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- 12 Kowhai Ford Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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KAIKOURA PEKETA BEACH HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA PEKETA BEACH HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Kaikoura's only Beachfront Holiday Park, 10 minutes south of town. Fabulous Beachfront Powered Sites with Breathtaking Ocean and Mountain Views. Large powered sites surrounded by native trees. Tent sites available on the beachfront or in park, as well as cabin accommodation. Playground, Mini-Golf, Flying-Fox, Real Fruit Ice Creams and heaps more. Facilities include great showers. A true kiwi holiday experience.
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- +64 3 319 6299
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- +64 27 271 7356
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- State Highway 1, 7km South of Kaikoura, New Zealand
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KAIKOURA PENINSULA WALKWAY - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA PENINSULA WALKWAY - Kaikoura
Observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pā and whaling sites and enjoy clifftop views of the sea and mountains. Suitable for families, the whole walkway takes three hours but you can also explore a range of shorter tracks.
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Kaikoura Postcard
Kaikoura Postcard
Digital postcards are fun to send and receive, and an ideal way to message a friend or family member. This stunning digital postcard features a whale off the Kaikoura coast, with the Kaikoura Ranges behind. Whale watching is a popular activity in Kaikoura, alongside swimming with dolphins.
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KAIKOURA QUALITY SUITES - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA QUALITY SUITES - Kaikoura
An exceptional place to rest while you enjoy spectacular Kaikoura. Modern, spacious studios with super-king beds, ensuite shower bathrooms with underfloor-heating and heated towel rail. Kitchenettes with microwave and refrigerator. All studios open on out to a balcony or courtyard with seating. Free Wi-Fi, onsite parking and covered BBQ. Close to supermarket, just 2 minutes' drive from town centre.
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- +64 3 319 7203
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- 154 Beach Road, Kaikoura, Canterbury, New Zealand
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KAIKOURA SHUTTLES AND TOURS - Kaikoura
KAIKOURA SHUTTLES AND TOURS - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - KAIKOURA - SHUTTLES. Transfers & Tours, we provide an introductory 2 hours tour, allowing you to see the very best that Kaikoura has to offer. Our tour starts with a visit to a fragrant lavender farm, then onto Ohau Seal Lookout, large fur-seal colony then Fyffe House (historic Whalers Cottage). We finish with a spectacular view from the Peninsula Lookout.
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- +64 3 319 6166
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- 108 Schoolhouse Road, Kaikoura Flat, Kaikoura 7371
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View 2 events near Canterbury - Kaikoura
Land of The Long Long Drive
Land of the Long Long Drive This show for the whole family is the third tour from the 2024 stable of touring artists with Arts On Tour NZ. And it will be a long long drive of over 6000 kilometres for the cast and crew ...
Where: The Mayfair Arts and Culture Centre, Kaikoura, Canterbury
Address: 80 Esplanade, Kaikoura, Kaikoura, Canterbury
From: 3:30pm on Wednesday 1st May 2024
To: 4:30pm on Wednesday 1st May 2024
Polo in the Pines 2024 - Blenheim Polo Club
The Blenheim Polo Club presents Polo in the Pines - the event of the summer in Clarence, Kaikoura. We have bus options from Blenheim. We have both corporate and general admission ticket options available to purchase. ...
Where: Meriburn Farm, Clarence, Kaikoura, Canterbury
Address: 3299 State Highway 1, Kaikoura, Canterbury
From: 10:30am on Saturday 7th December 2024
To: 6:00pm on Saturday 7th December 2024
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Kaikoura Scenic Highlights
Discover the major natural attractions and scenic wonders of the Kaikoura region...
Kaikoura Scenic Highlights
Kaikoura Activity Highlights
Read about the major activities and attractions in the Kaikoura region...