How to get here - Kaikoura, New Zealand

How to get here

The seaside settlement is the most northern district in the Canterbury region located on the east coast of the South Island (an ideal location for both north and south bound travellers). 2.5 hours drive from Christchurch, 2 hours from Blenheim and only 2,5 hours from Picton - the gateway to the North Island.

travelling by road

Kaikōura is easily accessibly within a 2hr 30min drive from Christchurch through the beautiful Waipara wine valley and Cheviot.

The Mt Lyford Inland Route 70 road from Waiau to Kaikoura is open 24/7.

From Picton 2,5 hours and Blenheim 2 hours along the SH1 coastal road. Offering panoramic views of the coastline. Pull over at the new Ohau Point viewing area to watch the Fur Seal Colony just a 25 minute drive north of Kaikōura.

The SH1 coastal road to Picton and Christchurch is open. SH1 south of Kaikōura – night closures. Sunday 18 October to December, 5 nights a week (Sunday–Thursday) See Timetable

travelling by coach

InterCity provides daily coach transport between Christchurch – Kaikōura and Picton – Kaikōura.

Feel free to contact us to check the InterCity time schedule and to make your bus bookings.

local transport

Rental car and shuttle services are available within Kaikōura. Contact the i-SITE Visitor Information Centre for more information.

travelling by air

Scenic flights and charters are available at Kaikōura airport. Contact the i-SITE Visitor Information Centre for more information.

Air Kaikoura offers direct charter flights between Wellington and Kaikoura every Friday and Sunday. Please check here for availability. Christchurch International Airport provides both domestic and international services.

travelling by train

With the sea stretching to the horizon in the east and the Kaikoura mountains stretching to the sky in the west, the Coastal Pacific journey between Picton and Christchurch is one of the most astonishingly beautiful in New Zealand.

The Coastal Pacific is a seasonal train, running from Spring (late September) through to Autumn (end of April).

apt touring route

Self-drive visitors can make the most of this beautiful area and enjoy Kaikōura as part of a multi-day scenic drive on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route. This route links Kaikōura with Hanmer Springs Alpine Village and Waipara wine region. 450kms of spectacular scenery winding past wineries, alpine thermal pools, wild surf, and whales.