Location: Kaikoura
Top Things to do in Kaikoura
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Things to do in Kaikoura, South Island: The Best Nature & Parks
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. Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,143 reviews
Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.
Reviewed By GreeceHelena - Whanganui, New Zealand
I set out this morning to walk the loop, Kaikoura to the Peninsula Walkway. Quite a steep climb up to the Point Kean Lookout, then the track levels off as you continue along the cliff tops with panoramic views of ocean, rocky coastline and twisted limestone. What I didn't see were seals and not a great deal of sea birds. Thankfully, yesterday I watched masses of seals and their pups playing at Ohau Point. I carried on past Whalers Bay to South Bay, returning via Tom's Track... a most enjoyable 13km walk.
2. Maori Leap Cave
3. Kaikoura Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
4. Peninsula Seal Colony
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 381 reviews
Reviewed By Jeff1903 - King's Lynn, United Kingdom
Although the guide books suggest that you can see seals close to the car park, we had to walk across the wave cut platform and around the next bay to find a large colony. Here there were a number of seals lazing on the rocks unconcerned by the visitors taking pictures. Some seabirds were also attracting attention. It is around 20-30 minutes from the car park across uneven rocks and then a pebble path. Not too difficult, but you need to watch where you put your feet. Is it worth it? On a fine day with good views and the promise of seals, most definitely yes.
