1 Kaikoura Penisula EC120 StapleImage v2

Only 2.5 hours’ drive north of Christchurch or 1 hour 40 from Blenheim, Kaikōura is the perfect short break getaway to recharge, and escape the hustle of city life. Blenheim and Christchurch both offer direct flights from around New Zealand!

Day 1

Begin your break....

Begin your short break in Kaikōura with a guided kayak tour to explore the bays of Kaikōura Peninsula, watch the seals in action on the water alongside your double kayak. For a hands- free pedal kayak experience try out Seal Kayak Kaikōura. After a few hours on the water head along to The Emporium for a well-deserved tasting of our local craft beer and test your skills in the escape room – a themed game in which players have a set time limit to find clues and solve a series of puzzles to enable them to complete a mission!

Check into your first 2 nights’ accommodation at Bendamere House, Bed & Breakfast. This property is centrally located, overlooking the township of Kaikōura and offers remarkable ocean views.

  • Transport
Kaikoura Seal Kayak

Day 2

Air Kaikoura credit Linda Peinemann 2 v2

Land, air and sea all in a day....

Head out early on the water for an unforgettable fishing experience with Top Catch Fishing Charters Kaikōura. At the end of your trip, your catch will be processed so you can take it home or into Coopers Catch Fish and Chips shop who will cook it up for you at a small price for lunch!

After lunch, we recommend taking flight with Kaikōura Aero Club to spot the mighty Sperm Whale & experience Kaikōura’s spectacular 360-degree views.  

Check in for the evening at your accommodation, but before you do make sure to stop by Kaikoura’s recently reopened Mayfair Theatre to enjoy a movie of choice up on the big screen!

  • Transport

Day 3

We are only halfway...

Check out of your accommodation after breakfast, for the next two nights we recommend trying a new spot to get a better taste of what Kaikōura has to offer!

Jump on board a tour with Dolphin Encounter for a chance to swim with or view our Dusky Dolphins in their own natural environment. Dolphins are some of nature’s most extraordinary and captivating creatures, and this specific breed of Dolphin is particularly acrobatic and playful! Or head out and discover many species of Albatross and pelagic birds on an Albatross Encounter tourKaikōura is a sought after albatross watching destination. Don’t forget your camera!

We have some great lunch options available in Kaikōura, with Flo and Co recently opened and Slam club renowned for their delicious sandwiches!

Kaikōura offers a variety of spectacular mountain bike trails to explore the varied majestic landscapes from rugged coastlines to mountain ranges. For leisure cycling there are tracks for all levels of experience ranging from casual family trails to challenging climb adventures.

On your way home, The Pier Hotel will serve up some of Kaikōura’s finest local delicacies and a pint of your favourite drop!

Check into your accommodation at the Clifftop Cabins. To relax at the end of the night be sure to take time to soak in the outdoor bath, one of the best spots to stargaze!

  • Transport
s 160828 asphoto 199657

Day 4

Finish your trip on a high...

Head out for your last full day in Kaikōura with an essential pit stop at Bernies Diner for a tasty refuel. The American style diner is one that will be sure to impress!

Whale Watching by boat is a very popular activity that cannot be missed during your stay in Kaikōura! Seeing the magnificent sperm whales in their natural environment is a memorable experience for all!

The half day Llama Trek tour in Kaikoura is 3 hours of stunning coastal views with a mountain backdrop and is fully guided.  Includes free entry to Fyffe House - the old whalers cottage and museum, steeped in history.  Your guide will walk you to the Kaikoura peninsula seal colony - a Kaikōura must-do!

  • Transport

#uniquelykaikōura