Local Attractions
Albatross Encounter with Ocean Wings, is a well established pelagic boat tour operating from the seaside township of Kaikoura.
Kaikouras strength is its diversity of marine mammals and bird-life so accessible to its shores - a truly unique area to New Zealand.
The Albatross Encounter operates boat cruises to the seabirds all year round and allows visitors the opportunity to see a magnificent array of ocean going birds at very close range.
There are many species to impress those wanting to see a diverse array of birds, from a variety albatross, to petrels, shearwaters, gulls shags and terns.
This tour is arguably the best short pelagic tour in the world - plan enough time in your itinerary to experience this special tour.
In amongst the varied and vibrant sea life found off Kaikoura is the spectacular dusky dolphin, one of the most delightfully exuberant characters of the Southern Ocean.
Dolphin Encounter®, New Zealand's very first operator to begin specific swim with and watching dolphin tours, has been operating since the summer of 1989-90.
Dolphin Encounter® offer two options for visitors wanting to see the dusky dolphins, swimming or watching
Kaikoura is a paradise for the fisherman. Whether its surface, deep sea, game fishing or crayfishing charters ranging from 2 hours to full day in duration.
Catch your own seafood lunch with all equipment supplied.
kaikoura has an 18 hole scenic links course approximately 3 km south of the Bella Vista Motel. Clubs and golf carts available for hire.
Situated in the unique alpine village of Hanmer Springs 90 minutes drive from Kaikoura inland to South West. At the centre of the village is Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, so popular that they were voted BEST VISITOR ATTRACTION at the 2004, 2005 and 2006 New Zealand Tourism Awards and also received the coveted Distinction Award in 2006.
Enjoy the delights of the Thermal Pools before returning to Kaikoura in the evening.
Spend up to two hours on horse back exploring native bush, riverbeds, farmland and mountain foothills. Exoperience not essential and there are a variety of rides to suit all abilities. Sunset rides are available during summer.
Nestled between the Seaward Kaikoura range and the vast expanse of the Southern Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura Winery offers visitors a complete sensory experience. There are regular tours of the picturesque vineyard and the underground cellar as well as wine sales and tastings of the award winning wines. Wedding or private functions are also able to be booked at the winery. the winery is 2 km from the Bella Vista Motel, south of Kaikoura on State Highway 1.
The topography of the Kaikoura coastline creates an ideal playground for kayaking. No experience is needed as you will be taught how to paddle. These hassle free, eco friendly tours offer safe, enjoyable, interactive experiences with little effort and a whole lot of good fun.
the Peninsula Cliff Top Walk takes about an hour one way. This walk from the Peninsula car park (seal colony) to South bay follows the limestone cliff top, giving good views of the shoreline below and mountains to the west. An alternative is along the shoreline which is about an hour longer and only accessible at low tide.
Swimming with fur seals is one of the world's rarest and most rewarding marine mammal experiences. Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to swim with these cheeky and inquisitive playmates of the sea. You will not believe how curious and interactive New Zealand fur seals can be in the water. No experience necessary as guides will be with you at all times.
Live sheep shearing and feeding of the Ram at the Point farm.
Experience the thrill of skydiving from 12,000 ft over Kaikoura?s breathtaking coastal and alpine scenery. Powered only by gravity you will freefall at 200kph and be simply jumping for joy from the whole experience!
go to www.skydivekaikoura.co.nz
UNFORGETTABLE ? Whale Watching
Off the Kaikoura coastline is a marine environment so rich in nutrients that it attracts some of the most magnificent creatures with which we share our planet. Among them are Giant Sperm Whales that can grow up to 20 metres and weigh over 50 tons. These whales can be seen all year round making Kaikoura one of the most popular whale watching locations in the world.
In addition to the sperm whale a number of different species of may also be seen, depending on the season, as they follow their migratory route. This unique marine experience also provides an opportunity to sight high-spirited Dusky Dolphins, the rare and endangered Hectors Dolphin, New Zealand Fur Seals and a wide variety of sea birds including the Royal Albatross.
Viewing options include purpose built vessels on the sea, fixed wing aeroplanes or helicopters in the air. Each option provides it's own unique and unforgettable experience that provides great viewing and photographic opportunities.
See www.whalewatch.co.nz or www.wingsoverwhales.co.nz