Things to do in Kaikoura

1. Seal Kayak Tour

There is a 100% probability of sighting a New Zealand Fur Seal! Come see the New Zealand Fur Seals as they play around and beneath your kayak in their natural environment, which provides the perfect photo opportunity! These Seal Kayak Tours are second to none!!! These excursions last 2.5–3 hours and include up to 2 hours on the water. Bring your camera since you'll be able to snap incredible moments, or simply relax on your hands-free Hobie Pedal Kayak.

2. Albatross Encounter

The Albatross Encounter trip provides a "up up and personal" look at Kaikoura's diverse assortment of seabirds, including the magnificent albatross. The sights that are regularly seen on our trip will not disappoint. It is known as the "albatross capital of the world" because of the diversity of albatross species that can be seen in one small spot so close to shore.

3. Dolphin Encounter

Have you ever fantasized about swimming with dolphins in the ocean? Even seeing a pod of dolphins frolicking around and demonstrating their acrobatic skills, or bow riding at the front of the boat, is really unique, and Kaikoura is a great spot to witness this. Dusky dolphins are fantastic performers, and the pods that can be spotted all year round on the Kaikoura shore are just breathtaking.

4. Guided Wildlife Kayaking

On the Wildlife Kayaking experiences with Kaikoura Kayaks, experience the thrill of watching Fur Seals dodge, weave, and dive around your kayak. They paddle gracefully down the coast as they swim around the Kaikoura Peninsula in search of Octopus, their favorite food. Marvel as hundreds of Pelagic (ocean-going) birds swoop in to clean up the appetizing leftovers.
This journey takes you around the magnificent coastal seas, where you'll see breathtaking vistas of sheer cliff faces, rugged rocks, and mountain ranges while looking for Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins.

5. Discovery Tour

Plant your own unique tree to aid with the regeneration of our native ecosystem and leave your stamp on the history of our newly founded "Mable Hope reserve."

You will acquire an understanding of the value of New Zealand's native forest and explore some of the crucial connections created with our native fauna on a stunning scenic drive over an ancient volcano, accompanied by our experienced guide.

In Pohatu Bay, you'll find a wonderful blend of thriving sheep farms, penguin colonies, and native woods.

This farming family's conservation efforts have helped the penguins grow throughout the years, but they've also designed their agricultural operations to balance economy and ecology in order to conserve the biodiversity in their backyard.

6. Hot Air Balloon

Your flight will take off in Mt. Hutt's foothills, where the mountains give great protection from the northwesterly winds. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, including Mt. Cook and Mt. Aspiring! Enjoy the Eastern views as well as the patchwork beauty of the plains to the Pacific Coast along the journey. After taking off, you'll soar to an altitude that provides amazing panoramic views of the mountains, then descend to a lower height for the second half of the flight to enjoy a different perspective by flying closer to the ground. Enjoy a celebration drink and snack in the landing paddock before boarding the chase car and returning to Methven.
Take your friends and family and create lifelong memories atop the world!

7. Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Taking a stroll is always an enjoyable and free activity, especially when seals are around! One of Kaikoura's most popular treks is the 11-kilometer Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, which has stunning coastline views and lookouts over seal colonies. There are shorter choices available if you don't feel like tackling the entire walk.

8. Watch Seals

If you don't feel like hiking but still want to see some seals, drive down to the Point Keen parking lot. A 5- to 10-minute drive from town is a car park towards the end of the Kaikoura Peninsula, where you may park and watch the seals bask in the sun. However, be aware that some seals take over automobile parking places, making parking scarce.

9. Kaikoura Museum

Head to the Kaikoura Museum if the weather isn't cooperating or if you're simply interested. The Kaikoura museum, located across the street from the i-SITE, houses excellent exhibits on local animals, Maori tribes, fishing and whaling history, as well as information on the 2016 earthquake.

10. Kaikoura Beach

From Kaikoura's beach, feel the sea wind and take in the landscape. The beach stretches out in front of the town, providing breathtaking views of the Kaikoura mountains. In the summer, the beach is safe to swim at, and local surf schools have even discovered a new surf break off the beach following the 2016 earthquake.