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Planning a trip to Kaikoura, New Zealand? Good! This coastal gem is one of the South Island’s must-visit destinations, and there’s no shortage of incredible things to do here. The only difficulty is knowing where to begin.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Kaikoura multiple times during my many road trips across New Zealand, and it never fails to amaze me.
Now, I’ve rounded up my top 5 picks of things to do, from whale-watching to trekking with llamas. Kaikoura really is a nature lover’s paradise, so pay close attention to this list to ensure that you get the most out of your visit!
Don’t Miss Out On My Top Choice!
The tour I love the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
My personal FAVORITE thing to do in Kaikoura is this whale watching tour on a catamaran boat! You can get up close to the whales and learn all about their behavior from the guides on board. Plus, who doesn’t love riding on a catamaran!?
Check out the 1,800+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Things to do in Kaikoura
1. Kayak with wildlife
- Price: $150 NZD
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 8:30 am or 12:30 pm
- Highlights: exploring a protected marine reserve, spotting dolphins, seals, and whales, small group tour
- Inclusions: transport, kayaking equipment, safety equipment, naturalist guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
Kaikoura is renowned for its stunning coastline, so what better way to enjoy it than from out on the water with this kayaking tour?
When I joined this half-day adventure, I was not only blown away by the views but also by how close I got to Kaikoura’s amazing marine life. I’m talking about seals darting around my kayak, and seabirds swooping overhead!
Our guide, Cam, was practically a walking encyclopedia of local wildlife knowledge. He ensured that the experience was fun and informative and that our whole group felt safe at the same time. I thought that the tour was perfectly paced, I had plenty of time to soak in the dramatic scenery.
The real highlight, though, was seeing a whale (even though it was a little far away)! Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, but this is the only tour that’s allowed to operate in this protected marine reserve, so it’s really your best shot of getting up close and personal with dolphins, whales, and fur seals. You’ll almost certainly see some of these creatures, even if you don’t get the full bingo card.
And as if I couldn’t love this tour anymore, it’s operated by a longstanding local company who have over 25+ years of dedication to eco-friendly tourism. It’s definitely a business that I felt good about supporting, and they delivered an experience I’ll never forget, so this tour is a win-win if you ask me!
Book this popular experience here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go.
2. Go on a whale watching on a catamaran
- Price: $180 USD
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 7:45 am, 10:30 am, or 1:15 pm
- Highlights: comfortable catamaran cruise; spotting dolphins, seals, and sperm whales; 80% refund if you don’t spot a whale; live commentary on board; onboard animations
- Inclusions: catamaran cruise, expert skipper, transport to and from the marina, 95% success rate
- Rating: 4.4 stars (check 2,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
There’s one experience in Kaikoura that you simply can’t miss, and that’s whale watching! Kaikoura is world famous for its thriving marine life, and heading out on this catamaran cruise is the best way to see sperm and humpback whales up close.
I was so excited to hop aboard this comfy catamaran and venture out to the edge of the continental shelf, which just so happens to be the perfect spot for seeing whales!
The resident sperm whales are here all year, but if you’re lucky, you might catch seasonal visitors like orcas and humpback whales. How amazing is that?
As well as majestic whales, I saw dolphins, seals, penguins, and a variety of seabirds. In fact, I couldn’t believe how many incredible creatures I spotted! The crew was exceptional, too, and their insightful commentary left me even more in awe of the animals I saw.
And if the whales are feeling shy on the day of your tour, the operator offers an 80% refund if you don’t see any, so it’s pretty risk-free, I’d say. Seeing whales is the main reason to visit Kaikoura in the first place. So whatever you do, do not leave town without experiencing this unforgettable adventure.
Check out the 1,800+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
3. Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline
- Price: $189 NZD
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 9 am – 3 pm
- Highlights: ziplining over Kaikoura’s lush rolling farmland, riding on a custom 4×4 Unimog, breathtaking views of the South Bay and the Seward Range
- Inclusions: five dual flying fox zipline flights, air-conditioned transport from central Kaikoura, farm drive on a custom 4×4 Unimog, local guides
- Rating: 5 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
Looking for a thrill in Kaikoura? Well, I’d say that this ziplining tour has got you covered! It combines stunning scenery, adventure, and eco-tourism – so it’s basically everything I love about Kaikoura in one neat little package.
The tour was so much fun from start to finish. The adventure kicked off with a 15-minute drive along the coast of Kaikoura, which really showcased the breathtaking views.
From there, we hopped into a custom Unimog for a fun albeit bumpy ride through the Kahutara River and up to the 3,000 Ranakui Station. And then, it was time to zipline!
I loved soaring over Kaikoura’s farmland, and the fact that it was a dual zipline meant that pairs could go together and even race one another, which made the experience even more fun. I swear, every zipline flight was better than the last! I think we covered over 2.2 kilometers (1.36 miles) in total, which is pretty impressive in my book.
The staff on the zipline tour were so enthusiastic and encouraging. They put safety first, and made all of the first-timers in my group feel at ease, so you really couldn’t ask for more. I loved this experience and would do it again tomorrow, so don’t hesitate to book this tour!
Don’t miss out on this thrilling tour – book your spot here.
4. Spot animals from above on a whale watching flight
- Price: $185 NZD
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Time: 9 am – 4 pm
- Highlights: seeing Kaikoura’s world-famous sperm whales from above, scenic flight, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery, live commentary on board
- Inclusions: flight, headsets
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
If you’re short on time in Kaikoura, then this scenic flight is the fastest way to see whales. Oh, yes, and it’s a ton of fun, too!
When I took this whale watching flight, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to spot whales from above. On a cruise, you spend hours on the lookout, but from above, I was able to spot one after just a few minutes. It was unbelievable!
The views were stunning right from the start. I loved the views of the Kaikoura mountains from up in the air. What I really appreciated about this flight, though, was the fact that I was able to get a true sense of just how enormous the whales are from up in the air. And it wasn’t just whales that I saw, either. I also spotted dusky dolphins and even an orca!
This flight is not only time-efficient, it’s also a particularly great choice for those who suffer from seasickness or are afraid of water. It would be such a shame to miss out on Kaikoura’s marine life, but fortunately, with this tour, you don’t have to!
So whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventure lover, or just short on time in Kaikoura, I think that this whale-watching flight is worth every penny. It’s one of the best ways to appreciate just how huge and majestic whales are, so don’t miss out.
Reserve your tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
Why I Book Tours on Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! I almost always book all of my tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here!
5. Go trekking with a llama
- Price: $219 – $249 NZD
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am or 1:30 pm
- Highlights: trekking with and getting to know adorable woolly llamas, learning history and facts about Kaikoura, walking along the coastlines and beaches, taking in mountain views
- Inclusions: llama to carry your belongings, cake, tea and coffee
- Rating: 5 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
If you’re looking for the most unique and wholesome experience in Kaikoura, then allow me to present this llama trekking tour! Trekking along the rugged coastline with an adorable llama was an experience that I will never forget. In fact, I was so charmed by my woolly, four-legged friend that I was tempted to run away with him!
From the moment I met my friendly llama, Archie, I knew the experience was going to be special. As we wended our way down the coast, our guide, Kevin, taught us about the creatures’ individual personalities and behavior. He also gave us some interesting insights into Kaikoura’s local history, including the impact of the 2016 earthquake.
The trek itself was breathtaking, with turquoise ocean on one side of me, and jagged peaks on the other. I always appreciate a beautiful coastal walk, but with Archie by my side, it was even sweeter. We also spotted some New Zealand fur seals lounging on the rocks at one point!
There was a stop halfway through this tour to enjoy a picnic with muffins, tea, and coffee, which made a wonderful day even sweeter – pun fully intended. The break also gave us more time to bond with the llamas, which I loved.
If you’re visiting Kaikoura anytime soon, I genuinely can’t recommend this llama trek enough. It was such a special experience, and it’s perfect for all types of travelers.
Check availability and book this unique tour here, before it sells out!
Where to Stay in Kaikoura, New Zealand
Kaikoura isn’t a large town, however, due to its popularity, there are a ton of great places to stay. The trick is that you need to book in advance to get the best places.
Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses – $$$
For a really unique stay, consider the Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses and sleep above the forest. Located in Hapuku, just outside of Kaikoura, this tree house accommodation is suspended 30 feet in the air, giving sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura, and the forest. Plus, each room has a 2-person spa bath, a fireplace, and a balcony. You may never want to leave! Check prices and book your room on Booking.com.
Shearwater Apartments – $$$
For high-end travelers, there are a lot of great options in Kaikoura. The Shearwater Apartments really stand out if you want to be close to town but it also has ocean views. This condo-style hotel makes you feel right at home with its luxurious setup, a kitchenette, and a patio. Best of all, it’s beachfront! Be sure to book this in advance on Booking.com.
Kaikoura – $$
For a comfortable yet mid-range budget option, the Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments are a top choice. These gorgeous apartments are oceanfront and come with a modern design and furnishings. The best part is they are located in the heart of Kaikoura and you’re only steps from the beach. They have 1 bedroom and 2 apartments that can sleep up to 4 guests. This is available to book on Booking.com.
Dolphin Lodge – $
If you’re on a budget there are some great choices. For me, I love staying at the Dolphin Lodge when I’m looking to save a few dollars. The cheapest private rooms here come with a shared bathroom but I myself always get the slightly more expensive room so I can get ready in private. They also have dorm beds for solo travelers. What I love most about the hotel, is the awesome location and ocean views. On top of that, they have a communal kitchen which always saves me a lot of money.
You can check prices and book in advance on Booking.com.
Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in New Zealand
Let’s face it, you’re going to need wheels to get around New Zealand. Although a small country, buses between destinations are infrequent and expensive. Plus, some of the best experiences you can have in NZ are on road trips!
You have three options when it comes to getting wheels in New Zealand; a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:
- Car – A normal car is the cheapest rental vehicle you can get in New Zealand. It’ll get you around to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels or Airbnbs during your travels (no camping.) The easiest place to rent a car in New Zealand is on Discover Cars where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.
- Campervan – A Campervan is a large van that has a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what most budget travelers use for traveling around New Zealand since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here. Alternatively, you can easily compare all campervans available in NZ on Motorhome Republic here.
- Motorhome – A motorhome is larger and more comfortable than a campervan. Many motorhomes will comfortably sleep 6 or more people – perfect for a family visiting New Zealand. Motorhomes are the most expensive option, but with one you won’t ever need to stay in a hotel and you’ll save money that way. My top choice for a motorhome company is Star RV because they have beautiful motorhomes at affordable prices. You can check prices and availability for Star RV motorhomes online here. Alternatively, you can use Motorhome Republic to search all motorhomes in NZ. For more detailed info, read my complete guide to renting a motorhome in New Zealand!
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT CODE: I’ve managed to snag a discount code for 5% off for my readers if you book your campervan or motorhome through JUCY or Star RV! Simply click here to select your JUCY campervan, or click here to select your Star RV motorhome, and then use the code DTRAVEL25 at checkout to get 5% off – it’s that easy!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, I currently use and recommend SafetyWing. I’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had my back when I needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference I’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. I’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum and you get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped me out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given me peace of mind. Read my full review on if you should get travel insurance in NZ for more info!
Thanks for reading!
Kaikoura is such a fun place to visit. Not only for it’s incredible outdoor beauty, but for the unique experiences! Kayaking with whales, seeing them from a helicopter or a boat, trekking with llamas, ziplining, what more could you ask for?
Thanks for reading my blog! If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out my other South Island blogs. I lived on this island and have had the pleasure of exploring all over. Here are a few of my other favorite places and experiences you should add to your itinerary!
6 Epic Stops on the Drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura