Experience the magic: Kaikoura

Just over two hours north of Canterbury, a drive through rolling hills and wineries will lead you to a stunning, winding coastal road to the beautiful town Kaikōura. The perfect place for a weekend getaway, Kaikoura is full of adventure, incredible scenery, local delights and good old, small-town charm. Here is an insight into what you will find in the magical coastal town.

Eat

If Kaikōura is famous for one thing, it is the seafood and specifically the crayfish. An international delicacy and something the locals are expert in.
Down at the waterfront, you’ll spot boat after boat heading out to drop craypots into the sea, coming back a few days later to pull them out of the water full of crays.
The local restaurants and bars are big buyers of fresh catches so be sure to scout the menu for the daily catch. If the weather is on your side, classic fish and chips enjoyed on the stony beach makes a delicious and fun lunch, especially if you manage to spy a pod of dolphins or seals splashing in the shallows.

Discover
Kaikōura is the place to go if you are wanting to get up close to marine wildlife.
Pods of dolphins are often spotted hanging around close to shores, getting playful with boats. If you are up for a dip, there are companies that will take you out to swim with the dolphins, so you can get up close to the majestic animals.
Whales are another deep-sea mammal that call the Kaikōura waters home, and there are whale watch boats and helicopters that take tours to spot the giant beauties.
Last, but not least, a short drive through town will take you to the seal colony, where you can spot hundreds of seals sunbathing in the rockpools.

Wander
With stunning views in every direction, it is hard to be disappointed when picking where to wander. The peninsula walkway is a favourite walk for locals and visitors.
It will take you up along the coastal cliffs and offer stunning views of the big blue, mountains, and township. Meandering through the quaint township, you’ll find boutique homeware and gift shops to find something special to take home.
There is a selection of tucked away bars to stop in for an afternoon drink, or a cosy café to settle into. Alternatively, picking up a few local goodies and a bottle of wine makes the perfect spread for an afternoon curled up with a book back at your accommodation.