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Kaikoura is an idyllic small seaside township on a rocky peninsula, with a superb beach and also a walkway encased with pairs of whale ribs, known as the 鈥楪arden of Memories鈥�.

What makes it unique are the very deep waters that mix warm and cold ocean currents, forcing nutrients to the surface and attracting pods of up to 300 dolphins, sperm whales, fur seals and many marine species.

Wildlife spotting

These great sea mammals are best seen on whale watching excursions, often the highlight of your trip to New Zealand, usually by boat but with a further option being to spot them from the air, on a 鈥榃ings over Whales鈥� light aircraft flight.

The ocean is also alive with seabirds including the black-browed mollymawk, Antarctic fulmar and the royal albatross.

Kaikoura's heritage and culture

On land, the region is also of significant historical note, as the area鈥檚 abundant food sources attracted M膩ori settlement and local M膩ori guides can bring the indigenous history to life.

The name Kaikoura comes from the M膩ori words for 鈥榚at鈥� and 鈥榗rayfish鈥�, and whilst in town you should definitely make sure to try this local delicacy. You can choose either to order it from one of the excellent local restaurants, or alternatively to drive just north of town to the tiny crayfish vans, where you can purchase your cray and eat it fresh by the waves of the Pacific Ocean.

Whale watching

Most visitors are drawn to Kaikoura for its abundant marine life, and there are excellent opportunities to experience this both by air and by sea.

Specially designed modern catamarans with sophisticated on-board technology provide an exciting and informative three-hour trip, getting you close to the New Zealand fur seal, dusky dolphins and the giant sperm whale.

Alternatively, a scenic flight gives you an aerial perspective as well as incredible views of the surrounding landscape.