Looking for fun things to do in Kaikoura? Here is the ultimate list.
Planning a trip to New Zealand and wondering about the best things to do in Kaikoura? You’ve come to the right place.
After months exploring the South Island, Kaikoura quickly became one of my favorites. From marine wildlife encounters to mountain hikes and epic bucket-list adventures, there’s truly something here for everyone.
Sorting through endless Google searches and travel forums can be overwhelming—so I’ve done the legwork for you. This post is packed with 25 awesome experiences, from free local gems to unforgettable tours.
Whether you’ve got a few hours or a few days, you’ll find plenty to inspire your visit. Use the Table of Contents to jump straight to what interests you most—or just scroll and enjoy it all!
Welcome to Kaikoura
Kaikoura (pronounced: KAI-kour-a) is a lovely coastal town on the northeast corner of New Zealand’s South Island in the Canterbury Region. It’s about 2-1/2 hours north of Christchurch and 2 hours south of Picton on State Highway 1 (SH1).
The nutrient-rich waters of the Kaikoura Peninsula make it a great habitat for marine wildlife. Whales, dolphins and New Zealand seals all live here, plus a huge abundance of sea birds and fish.
These aquatic creatures are the main draw for visitors to the area and they feature a very prominent role in the list of Things to Do in Kaikoura.
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My Favorite Things to Do in Kaikoura
#1 – Hike the Kaikoura Peninsula
There are lots of different ways to explore the beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula:
- by boat – most of the water excursions will go past it
- on top of the cliffs to hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
- down on the tidal flats where you can hike around if the tide is low.
You can walk out on the tidal flats during low tide to see New Zealand Fur Seals around the Kean Point parking lot. It’s so much fun to observe and take pictures of the seals, but always maintain a safe distance from them (at least 65 feet / 20m) so they stay undisturbed.
#2 – Watch the Seals at Ohau Point
Do you love to observe wildlife in their natural habitat? It’s one of my favorite things to do in Kaikoura. And the area between Ohau Point and Half Moon Bay is really one of the best places you can observe the New Zealand Fur Seals, literally by the hundreds!
If you drive about 21 minutes north of Kaikoura along State Highway 1 (SH1), the free Ohau Point Lookout is on the right side of the road. It has plenty of parking and an elevated platform where you can watch the seals right below you, often just a few feet away.
When we were there during the summer months (February), some of the seals were really active. They were sleeping, stretching, and swimming in the tide pools. And the cute baby seals were busy scampering after their mamas. I literally spent hours here photographing the seals!
#3 – Experience the Albatross Encounter
Most people choose to do a Whale Watching excursion or a Dolphin Encounter as one of their things to do in Kaikoura (and with good reason – those are super fun experiences in a prime marine environment for it).
As an avid birdwatcher, I opted instead to do the Albatross Encounter. It’s an gigantic sea bird with a 12 foot wingspan.
I had never seen an Albatross before so this was my chance to check it off my bird Bucket List!
Not only did we get to see the Albatross and many other large ocean birds come flying right up to the boat (what a thrill!), but we were also lucky enough to see Dusky Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins and Orcas. BONUS! I love seeing the Orcas up close.
Now here’s an interesting perspective: Several employees of the whale watching company were on our Albatross Encounter, taking this tour on their day off. They couldn’t stop talking about what a great experience it was to be in the Albatross boat which was low on the water, right by the birds. The whale boats are MUCH bigger and therefore much higher up, away from the wildlife. So keep that in mind when you’re deciding which tour to take.
The tour is offered by Albatross Encounter, a sister company of the Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura. It lasts about 2-1/2 hours and is limited to 12 people (the whale ones take 100+ people) which makes it much easier to move around the boat to take videos and photos.
For me, this truly was the best part of my entire trip to New Zealand and my favorite thing to do in Kaikoura.
#4 – Go Bird-watching at South Bay
On the opposite side of the Kaikoura Peninsula from Point Kean, is South Bay. Here, the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway descends sharply down from the clifftop, back down to the water level. The new boardwalk with the cool gate connects the walkway to the parking lot.
In addition to the gorgeous coastline and mountain views, it’s also a terrific place to find coastal birds from the long boardwalk. We found: Great Cormorant, Little Black Cormorant, a Juvenile Long-tailed Jaeger, Pied Cormorant, Royal Spoonbill, Silver Gull, Variable Oystercatcher, and White-faced Heron.
There is a large free parking lot here, public restrooms and lots of picnic tables. The Marina is also located here – many of the wildlife excursions and fishing charters leave from this area.
To get there, put South Bay Recreation Reserve into your maps app – that will bring you to the parking lot to begin your exploration.
Unique Bucket List Things to Do in Kaikoura
Many of the thrilling activities in Kaikoura are showing up on people’s Bucket Lists. Here are some for you to consider:
#5 – Swim with the Dolphins
Imagine being in the water, surrounded by playful dolphins in their native wild environment. Is that on your Bucket List of things to do? With Dolphin Encounter, you have an opportunity to swim/snorkel with the Dusky Dolphins, a friendly playful dolphin family. Sure to create incredible memories and a magical experience.
If you don’t want to get in the water, you can stay on the boat and watch the lively dolphins play around you. It’s a great way to capture both photos and video of the animated creatures. Both in-the-water and on-the-boat options are available from Dolphin Encounter.
Book early as these excursions often sell out during the summer months of December – February.
#6 – Fly a Helicopter
This is your chance to fly an actual helicopter! Guided by an instructor, you get to take the controls and learn how to take off, hover, fly over the ocean and then land the chopper. An unforgettable Bucket List experience for sure. And you’ll get a certificate to prove you really did it!
#7 – Kayak with the Seals
One of the most popular things to do in Kaikoura, kayaking allows you to get up close and personal with the New Zealand Fur Seals in the area as well as tour the amazing coastline.
With a Wildlife Sea Kayaking activity, paddle through protected marine reserves and discover seals in their natural habitat. If you’re lucky, you might also see dolphins or even whales! This 3-hour tour is offered year round.
#8 – View Whales From the Sky
Experience magnificent and unobstructed views of whales, dolphins and sea life from the air on this extended 40-minute flight from the Kaikoura Airport. From the air, you can find the wildlife a lot faster than searching from a boat, there’s no chance of sea sickness and you can appreciate how truly gigantic they really are.
Great photo opportunities too of the picturesque coastline in the Kaikoura area. If flying over the ocean is on your Bucket List, this is a great opportunity for you!
#9 – Zipline in Kaikoura
Experience the thrill of speeding down 5 separate ziplines, covering over 2km as you transverse farmland, bush country and beautiful valleys. A Bucket List experience for sure!
This zipline is unique because there are twin lines so you can ride down side-by-side with a partner or loved one. This three-and-a-half-hour tour is offered year-round.
#10 – 4W Drive along the Rugged Coastline
If fast and thrilling is your favorite mode of operation, then check out Glenstrae Farm 4WD Adventures.
On this two-and-a-half-hour, adrenaline-filled excursion, you will speed through farm land and bush country to reach the bluffs, tear up creek beds and experience the excitement of quad bike riding.
#11 – Climb Mount Fyffe
Is climbing a mountain on your Bucket List?
Mount Fyffe offers a steep and challenging 8-1/2 mile round trip climb up to the summit at 5255 feet. The rewards are well-worth the effort for travelers in good physical condition.
All along the path are viewpoints which allow you to view the Southern Pacific Ocean in the distance, the Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Range and the entire Kaikoura Peninsula.
On a really clear day, you might even be able to see the North Island!
For hikers, reaching the summit is one of the best things to do in Kaikoura and also an opportunity to achieve a Bucket List challenge.
For more information about parking, lodging, access and precautions that should be taken before you climb Mount Fyffe, see the Department of Conservation website.
#12 – Trek with a Llama along the coast
Make a new woolly friend as you ride a llama along the coastline looking for seals, seeing beautiful scenery, and learning about local history.
Your guide will share about Kaikoura’s history and the impacts of the 2016 earthquake. This three-and-a-half-hour trek is available year round.
#13 – Take a Sunset Evening Kayak Tour
Sunset kayak tours are one of the most popular things to do in Kaikoura. Imagine the glow as the sun sinks towards the horizon and the coastline is illuminated. And hopefully, you also might get to see some seals or dolphins. This 3-hour tour is offered October – March.
Other Popular Things to Do in Kaikoura –
#14 – Explore the Coast and Mountains by Plane
If you only have a short time in Kaikoura, this is the perfect way to see a lot in just
a 25 minute scenic flight. Explore the mountains, waterfalls and the Kaikoura Peninsula in a guided flight with narrated commentary
#15 – See the Whales by Boat
How many times have you gone on a whale watching excursion, but you returned home disappointed because you didn’t see much? It’s happened to us several times. But due to the nutrient rich coastal waters, Kaikoura is a prime destination for finding marine wildlife on a Whale Watching Cruise.
The gigantic sperm whale lives here year-round so your chances of seeing those on a whale watching excursion are excellent. The Humpback whales migrate through here in June and July, and the Orcas are often present in December – March.
The large catamaran boats are designed to withstand the ocean currents and can hold up to 110 people for the three-and-a-half-hour tour. Note during the summer months (December – February), the tours tend to sell out. So book early if you’re going to be in Kaikoura in the summer.
#16 – Enjoy a Hands-Free Kayaking Experience
A different way to Kayak with the seals! Pedaling instead of paddling your kayak keeps your hands free so you can take tons of photos of the wildlife and coastal scenery with your camera or phone. This 3-hour guided tour is offered year round with day time or sunset options.
#17 – Do a Helicopter Whale Watching Trip
Take off from a helipad on the beach and enjoy 30 minutes of narrated commentary through your headset while you observe sperm whales and dolphins from the air, and maybe humpback whales in the right season. Seeing the magnificent marine wildlife from the air should definitely be on your Bucket List!
#18 – Delight in a Mountain Top Picnic with stunning views
Celebrate a special occasion, a romantic proposal or treat a loved one to a private, gourmet picnic on the top of a mountain. Take a scenic helicopter ride up into the remote Kaikoura Mountain Range. You and your guest will experience amazing views while enjoying local cuisine and beverages.
#19 – Enjoy a Combo Whale Watching and Mountain Top Experience
View the incredible marine wildlife (whales, dolphins and more) from the air as you fly out over the ocean for unobstructed views. It’s the only way to really appreciate how large the whales actually are.
Then fly up into the Seward Kaikoura range for a mountain top landing where you can take in the scenic vistas and views. This one-hour helicopter tour packs a punch and lets you combine two Bucket List items into one great event.
FREE and Cheap Things to Do in Kaikoura
#20 – Watch the surfers at Mangamaunu Bay
Are you looking for something FREE to do in Kaikoura? Drive out to Mangamaunu Bay , about 12 minutes north on State Highway 1 (SH1), to watch the surfers ride the waves. The day we went, there were probably 50 surfers taking turns and doing flips and spins. So cool to watch!
Mangamaunu Bay is also on the way to Ohau Point (#2) so you can stop there on your way to see the seal colony too.
#21 – Visit the Kaikoura Lookout
Located right in the middle of the Kaikoura Peninsula, high above the town at 274 Scarborough Street, is the Kaikoura Lookout. From this scenic overlook, you can see for miles in all directions, making it a great place to take photos from.
I’ve heard it’s also great for experiencing the sunrise or sunset in Kaikoura, which definitely should be on your list of Things to Do in Kaikoura.
#22 – Walk Kaikoura Beach
Have a little extra time to explore? You can walk along Kaikoura Beach in about an hour, for FREE. It runs right along the edge of town if you follow Esplanade Street. It features amazing views across the bay to the mountains.
In the summer, one of the best things to do in Kaikoura is to go swimming at the south end of the beach where there is more sand (but no lifeguards). The rest of the beach area is quite rocky (still fine for walking) and has a pretty strong current in the water.
You can also fish from the beach and catch your own dinner. Butter fish and blue cod are often caught here – so are crayfish and rock lobster. And for the birdwatching folks, lots of sea birds hang out at the beach.
At the end of the day, Kaikoura Beach is a great spot to catch the sun going down over the mountain range.
#23 – Sheep Shearing Demonstration
In my observation, there are at least 5 sheep in New Zealand for every human person – they are EVERYWHERE! And here’s your chance to see and get to know them up close.
The Point Campsite, located on the farmland in the heart of the Kaikoura Peninsula, hosts a daily Sheep Shearing Show where they demonstrate how they’ve been raising sheep for five generations. In this hands-on experience, you will learn about the different types of wool, breeds of sheep, and the tools they use to remove the fluffy wool.
You can make a reservation in advance, or just show up at 1:30. Address is 85 Fyffe Quay Road in Kaikoura.
#24 – Kaikoura Museum
Once you’ve had enough outdoor and animal experiences, (wait – is that even possible?) or if it’s a rainy day, here’s a chance to learn a little about the history and culture of the Kaikoura region. Visit the Kaikoura Museum, located at 96 West End in the famous “craypot” building.
This institution offers numerous permanent and rotating exhibits about local history, culture and activities in the area. When we were there, they had a special exhibit about the surfing culture in Kaikoura Bay.
#25 – Fyffe House
The oldest standing building in Kaikoura, the pink Fyffe House features exhibits about the history and culture of the whaling industry in the Kaikoura region. Its foundation is literally built on piles of vertebrae of Southern right whales!
You’ll pass the Fyffe House (62 Avoca Street) on your way to Point Kean and the seal colony there. So stop in for a visit and learn something new about the whaling industry in the Kaikoura region.
Plus activities #1, #2 and #4 above are all free to do!
Things to Do in Kaikoura on a Rainy Day
If you happen to be in Kaikoura on a rainy day, there are still plenty of things to do.
First of all, if it were me, I would still venture outside. Perhaps go to Kaikoura Beach (#22) or to the Kaikoura Peninsula (#1). There should be plenty of parking and you might even have the place (almost) to yourself.
Places like this can be beautiful with the fog and the low clouds and even the rain. If it’s windy, the waves will really be crashing and blowing. Just be extra careful though because the rocks might be very slippery.
Or drive up to the Kaikoura Lookout (#21) to watch the clouds move across the bay.
Indoor destinations include the Kaikoura Museum (#24) and the Fyffe House (#25).
And in town, there are literally dozens of great restaurants, coffee houses and shops to hang out in. It’s really important to support the local businesses and the tourist economy that is the lifeblood of Kaikoura.
Where to Stay in Kaikoura
A wide range of accommodations are available in the town of Kaikoura and on the Peninsula. Most are either down near the water, or up on the hill offering fantastic views.
The one that we stayed at is unfortunately no longer available, but here are some highly rated choices for you:
Budget Options
- Kaikoura Seaside Lodge – a mix of hostel-style dormitory rooms and private rooms with common spaces for cooking and relaxing. Right on the beach!
- Austin Heights – Kaikoura – This Bed and Breakfast is up on the hill overlooking the Kaikoura Peninsula and the mountains.
- Kaikoura Top 10 Holiday Park – Offers a wide range of accommodations, just a 5 minute walk into town. Tons of amenities and activities too.
Mid-Range Options
- Bendamere House Bed & Breakfast – This B&B offers private rooms with gorgeous sea views.
- Nikau Lodge Bed & Breakfast – Spectacular views of the sea from this hilltop location, just 1150 feet from the beach.
- The Lookout – This 4 bedroom, 2 bath house with over 10,000 square feet makes a perfect home away from home.
Luxury Options
- A Room With A View – This luxury 3 BR house features views of the mountains and 180 degree views of the sea.
- On The Edge – Another 3 BR house with amazing views all around, and only 1000 feet from the beach.
- The Kaikoura Bach Retreat – Located on the South Bay side of the peninsula, this 4 BR house offers stunning views.
How to get to Kaikoura
By Car
Kaikoura is located on State Highway 1 (SH1), 2-1/2 hours north of Christchurch and 2 hours south of Picton.
An alternative longer, more scenic route is the Alpine Pacific Triangle Touring route – also known as Inland Kaikoura Road (Route 70) – which links three popular recreational destinations: Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs (known for its spa delights), and the Waipara Valley (known for its wine and culinary treats). It’s 370 km long and takes about 4 hours to drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura, depending on how often you stop along the way.
By Train
The Coastal Pacific train runs through Kaikoura on its way between Picton and Christchurch each day. Visit their website for current rates and schedules.
By Bus
Buses run between Picton and Christchurch, stopping in Kaikoura 2 times each day. Check their website for current rates and schedules:
Conclusion: Is Kaikoura worth visiting?
One hundred percent, ABSOLUTELY! We had the best time here, and the next time we come back to New Zealand, we will stay here longer so we can do more of the items on this Amazing Things to Do in Kaikoura list.
I’d recommend staying at least 3-4 days in the Kaikoura area, or even a week or two if your time in New Zealand is longer. There is so much to see and do here!
More New Zealand Posts
Here are some more posts about New Zealand, including some that I’m still working on. If you’d like to receive emails when I’ve posted new content to the site, please complete the short form above.
- New Zealand Overview – Facts & Travel Tips You Need to Know – the currency, time zone, driving, language, drinking water and more
- Why the South Island was Perfect for our New Zealand Road Trip
- Safe Driving In New Zealand – 10 Things You Need to Know
- Lots more posts coming soon!
Queenstown
- 20 Most Popular Day Hikes in Queenstown, New Zealand
- 30 Popular Things to Do in Queenstown, New Zealand
- More coming soon!
Kaikoura
- Ultimate Guide: 25 Things to Do in Kaikoura, NZ (2025)
- Tips for Exploring the Kaikoura Peninsula & Walkway
- Coming Soon: Experiencing the Albatross Encounter
Lake Tekapo
- Lake Tekapo Stargazing – Where to Stay to See the Stars for FREE
- More Coming Soon!
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