What to do in Kaikoura

You'll be amazed at just how much there is to see and do in Kaikoura.

Whether it's watching the mighty Sperm Whales at sea, swimming with pods of hundreds of Dusky Dolphins, getting up close and personal with the New Zealand Fur Seals, admiring the Albatross and other marine birdlife, tasting some of the local wines or simply taking a walk around the beautiful landscape of the peninsula, Kaikoura has something for everyone.

If you are looking to get some extra information about the region the best place to start is Kaikoura Information & Tourism. Kaikoura Information & Tourism have a vast amount of information at their disposal to help you get the best from the region. You can either visit the web site or if you are in town pop in and have a chat with their friendly staff at the i-Site on West End.

Whale Watch Kaikoura.

One of the best reasons to spend time in Kaikoura is the vast array of marine life close at hand. If viewing Sperm Whales in their natural environment is your thing then Whale Watch Kaikoura should be top of your list of things to do. They run trips daily throughout the year and depending on the season you may also have the opportunity to see Humpback Whales and Orca too.

Encounter Kaikoura.

Along with the whales, Kaikoura is lucky to have a population of Dusky Dolphins all year round. Encounter Kaikoura run dolphin swimming and watching trips throughout the year for those of you who want to experience these fabulous creatures up close and personal. They also run trips to view the impressive array of marine birds that populate our beautiful coastline including the Albatross. Well worth a look.

Kaikoura Kayaks.

If you want to experience the wildlife of Kaikoura in a peaceful and eco-friendly way, check out Kaikoura Kayaks. The Kaikoura Peninsula is the perfect place to Kayak. Experience the New Zealand Fur Seals up close whilst they hunt for their food. Spot other marine mammals and sea birds as you paddle around sheltered coves. They offer Seal Kayak Tours, Freedom Hire, as well as Fishing Kayaks.

Seal Swim Kaikoura.

Originally set-up in 1987, Seal Swim Kaikoura are the original seal swimming team for Kaikoura. They run several trips a day to view the local seal population and interact with it's playful occupants. You can choose from either a shore or boat based dive with trips lasting on average 2.5 hrs.

Ski Mt Lyford.

Just 65kms from Kaikoura is Mt Lyford, a small ski field great for all abilities. The Ski season runs from around June to September. More information can be found on Mt Lyfords Website. Transfers from Kaikoura can be arranged and are essential unless you have a 4x4 due to the condition of the road. It's also possible to Surf and Ski in a day. These trips are booked on an ad-hoc basis subject to the right weather conditions.

There are many other activities and things to do in Kaikoura. We will gladly help you arrange any trips, as well as answer any questions you may have (we've been on a lot of the trips ourselves). For more info see our Links Page too!

Weekly Events

Thursday Nights: The Whalers weekly pub quiz always seems to attract the biggest week-night crowd. Join us as we take on the locals. One day we may actually win!

Friday Nights: Jam Session at the Strawberry Tree. Can you sing or play an instrument? Join us at the Strawberry Tree Irish Pub for an open mic night with a warm pub atmosphere and open fire.

Special Events throughout 2009

December 2009

Fri 25th Dec; Join us for Orphans Christmas. Secret Santa, Meal, and Drinks. Arrive by 24th Dec and you must stay a minimum of 2 nights (no check-outs on Christmas Day). This will be a huge party and we're already excited about it! we've still some availability so let us know as soon as possible if you'd like to join us.