Location: Kaikoura
Top Things to do in Kaikoura
Countries
The 10 Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Kaikoura, South Island
In the Maori language, Kaikoura means "meal of crayfish," a nod to the New Zealand township's seafood-rich origins. Remnants of those early days can be found at Fyffe House, the oldest surviving building, and Kaikoura Museum. Today, the South Island settlement provides an ideal base camp for observing the abundant offshore wildlife (sperm whales, dusky dolphins, orcas and fur seals) and dining on fresh local catch. Numerous galleries showcase the knitting, pottery and jewelry of area artisans.
Restaurants in Kaikoura
1. The Emporium
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 32 reviews
There is something for everyone at The Emporium- Our most recent attractions are Escape room games. Themed rooms with clues and puzzles to work through to complete a challenge, you've only got 60mins- can you beat the clock?? (Bookings essential via our website) The 18 hole Mini Golf course at The Emporium is set in a lovely sheltered location away from the road. Recently renovated, this course is a lot of fun for all ages, surrounded by native plants and mountain views. Look out for the resident cat Poppy, she may even help you knock that ball in the hole! The Emporium also has a 4 Tap rigger station selling the latest craft beers produced by Emporium Brewing. The long term plan is to have a full brewery installed here in our warehouse but until that time we will continue to contract brew the bulk of our beers in Christchurch with the exception of a few limited release 50 litre batches brewed on site here in Kaikoura. Pop in for a chat anytime!
Reviewed By David_B20142014 - Nelson, New Zealand
Great little mini golf course tucked away behind the Caltex Service Station in Kaikoura. Well designed course with some challenging features, but not too difficult for everyone to enjoy.
2. Indulge Body & Soul
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10 reviews
Indulge Body and Soul is located right in the heart of Kaikoura and is a perfect wet weather treat or to recharge during your holiday. We love that our treatments are 'all about you' & our menu has been crafted to encompass hands on facial & body therapies, ensuring that the experience is slow, comforting & relaxing.
3. Kaikoura i-SITE Visitor Information Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 321 reviews
We are the official Kaikoura i-SITE Visitor Information Centre and your local experts in our region which is the number one choice for visitors. This Qualmark endorsed centre is part of New Zealand's official Visitor Information Network (i-SITE) and the only official government approved information and booking centre in Kaikoura. We are also the only visitor centre not owned or affiliated with any tourism operator thus remain unbiased about the best products to suit our visitors. We are your ‘one stop shop’ for travel advice and bookings for Kaikoura tours, activities and accommodation. As an official i-SITE, we also specialise in travel arrangements for all New Zealand destinations. Better still, our service to you is FREE
Reviewed By Rosemary73 - Ashburton, New Zealand
We called into the centre to see what additional information might be available for the area on biking tracks. The staff were very friendly and helpful. We always visit these centres as usually they have the current un to date information. A fairly good selection in the gift shop as well.
4. Mayfair Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 37 reviews
A fantastic community owned and run 1930's art deco building screening the latest blockbusters and popular movies.
5. Kaikoura Cheese
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By KeithFromNZ - Urenui, New Zealand
Can recommend this nondescript little shop alongside the post shop in the main street - kaikoura cheese factory. Ash dusted goat Tenara, and, in our case, a 9-month aged smooth and tasty Te Morehu. Well worth looking for. Don’t expect to pay supermarket prices but a taste experience to remember. Excellent when Accompanied by crackers and a crisp, cold Yealand’s Sauvignon (fortunately there is a supermarket on the northern outskirts of town with wine, a vast range of crackers and water biscuits).
6. Kaikoura Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 137 reviews
A new state-of-the-art museum experience showcasing Kaikoura’s diverse natural, cultural and social history. We also have research facilities for historians and those interested in family histories of the district.
Reviewed By Nomes00 - Christchurch, New Zealand
Well worth a visit to see the earthquake exhibition as well as lots of other fascinating Kaikoura treasures. Very reasonably priced at $12/ adult. The lady at the front desk went out of her way to make sure my 3 year old had a great time with an i-spy activity.
7. Kaikoura Marine Aquarium
8. Fyffe House
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 150 reviews
Reviewed By roaming_kiwi58 - Christchurch, New Zealand
A fascinating place to visit if you have any interest in history. We had a warm welcome from the lady at the entrance, who gave us a short introduction and a leaflet with a little info and a map. Then we wandered the property on our own. I found it fascinating that the foundations of this building are constructed of whale bones. You can see them in the front verandah. Well worth a visit to Fyffe House if you are in Kaikoura. By the way, I noted that on the Heritage NZ website it says opening hours are 10 to 4 Thursday to Monday. This is not correct. These are only the May to September hours. From October to April Fyffe House is open every day from 10 to 5pm. The information centre in Kaikoura very quickly supplied the correct opening times via email when I queried. I have had no response from Heritage NZ regarding the opening hours.
9. Southern Paua Shop & Factory
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 13 reviews
10. Beer School
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
