Kaikoura summer guide: whales, seals & scenic beauty

Kaikoura is a pretty special place. With an abundance of wildlife and adventure, this beautiful coastal town is the perfect spot to head for a summer road trip.

Kaikoura is the northernmost district in Canterbury on the South Island just a quick 2.5-hour drive from Christchurch will land you in a mountain and ocean paradise. That’s right, this town has both and the scenes from the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway will truly blow you away.

Why should you visit Kaikoura?

There are few places on this earth like Kaikoura. The Southern Alps provide a stunning backdrop to the sweeping coastline and Kaikoura’s hidden talent you ask?

The incredible marine ecosystem thriving right on its doorstep. This town is world-renowned for its marine mammal encounters. Whales, fur seals, and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters, meaning your chance of seeing these magical creatures is pretty high.

How to get to Kaikoura

State Highway One hugs the coastline, and honestly, If you don’t spend your whole journey with your head hanging out the window of your van in awe then you are seriously missing out. If you are driving in from the north then be prepared to have your socks blown off when you drop down through the mountain ranges, truly breathtaking scenery.

Christchurch is the nearest city to Kaikoura with a 2.5 hour drive time. State Highway One is incredibly scenic and we recommend taking your time to stop at the photo spots and seal colonies along the way. If you are arriving from the North Island, jump on the Interislander ferry and head South. From Picton, you will reach Kaikoura in 2 hours.

What to do in summer in Kaikoura

It’s true, Kaikoura captivates all who visit and will have you coming back for more and more. There is so much to see and do in this little town that you might need to reconsider your holiday time and slide in an extra few days. We have taken the time to round up 5 of the best activities here in Kaikoura this summer.

1. Swim with the dolphins

Looking for the ultimate pinch me experience this summer? Get your gear, listen to the briefing and slip into the ocean for one of the best experiences New Zealand has to offer. A morning swimming with pods of Dusky Dolphins!

The dolphins here in Kaikoura are some of the most playful in the world and they love to swim, dart, and jump around you in the water. They are not baited or chased to the chance encounter is a dream come true. If you add one thing to your Kaikoura bucket list, make sure it’s this!

2. Hike to Mount Fyffe

Strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails around Kaikoura town. Not only will you be rewarded with mountains and ocean views at the same time but it’s the perfect chance to test your fitness skills during your time on the road.

For an intermediate hiking trail, Mount Fyffe is a perfect adventure. The paths are well-formed but entirely uphill, the 18.5km return hike should take the full day so pencil in at least 6-7 hours in your itinerary. Walk steady and slow to the summit and be sure to crack a beverage to celebrate your success as your marvel at the landscape below.

Want something a little easier? Stroll the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway and take in the sweeping coastal views.

3. Kayak at sunrise

Another bucket list-worthy activity on the water. For guaranteed viewing or fur seals and incredible visuals of the Seaward Kaikoura mountains be sure to book in for this paddle adventure. Sunrise kayaking is calm, collected, and truly breathtaking.

The team will teach you the ropes and get you out into ocean bliss in no time. Dolphins, seals, and even whales have been known to join in on a kayak tour so have your cameras at the ready!

4. Whale watching by boat and plane

Did you really take a trip to Kaikoura if you didn’t whale watch though? This area is world-famous for its whale watching and this is an absolute must-do when visiting the town. There are three main ways to experience a whale-watching tour in Kaikoura.

The most popular is by boat, here you will search for the resident sperm whales and any other majestic beauties that surface. The other is to jump in a plane or helicopter and fly over the ocean. A bird's eye view of whales below is otherworldly and you will no doubt be left speechless and in awe at these majestic creatures.

5. 4WD and Quad bike through the hills

Fun for the whole family at Glenstrae Farm 4 wheel adventures. If you are a speed hound, jump on your very own Quad bike and follow along as you explore the epic coastline and farmland. Fancy sitting back and relaxing, then join the 4 wheeler tour in a custom-built buggy. Three hours of private touring will reward you with native bush, spectacular views of the Kaikoura coast, Haumuri Bluffs, and a private little seal colony.

Where to stay in Kaikoura

The Point Campsite

This little campground offers a true back-to-basic camping experience for self-contained motorhomes, campervans, and caravans. The farm has been in the family for 5 generations and boasts Breathtaking views of the coast and mountains. You can even join in a sheep shearing day with the owners. Uniquely situated, nestled in a bay overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Range, The Point is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.

• Prices start at $40 per night || non powered sites

• No powered sites, no toilet blocks, no noisy traffic BUT lots of green grass for the kids or dogs to run around on, a beach across the road for swimming.

• Pet friendly and only 5km from Kaikoura town.

Kaikoura Top ten Holiday Park

Top Ten holiday parks are pretty iconic to New Zealand and the Kaikoura park is perfectly located for all your Kaikoura adventures. Just a short walk from town, the beach, and a local supermarket this holiday park is a great place to call home for the duration of your stay. With a hot tub, shower block and full amenities block it is great for the whole family.

• Prices start at $35 per night || non powered and powered sites

• Communal kitchen and bathrooms, laundry facilities, and adventure playground for the kids.

• There is a dump station and a seasonal heated swimming pool on site.

Responsible camping in Kaikoura

Formally known as freedom camping in New Zealand. If you are riding around the south island in a certified Self Contained vehicle then look out for responsible camping zones. You can pull up, stay the night and soak up the beautiful scenery. These sites are free and you must be a tidy kiwi when staying here. Use the mobile app Campermate to locate these sites and look out for the green signs along the roadside.

Have we piqued your interest? Does a holiday to Kaikoura sit high on your bucket list? Excellent news! Check out available vans for hire in the Canterbury region and the rest of the South Island to kick start your summer roadie.