Kaikōura is a coastal town around two hours and a half off Christchurch. It’s a very popular tourist place in New Zealand. Kaikoura is known for its marine wildlife, such as blue-eyed penguins, dusky dolphins, sperm whales, and fur seals.
It’s located on the south island, north of Christchurch. Situated on a peninsula, It protrudes 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) into the Pacific Ocean. The town of Kaikōura is located on the north shore of the peninsula.
Activities to do in Kaikoura
Kaikoura has a lot of activities you can experience while visiting the town and exploring Kaikoura by helicopter Kaikoura Scenic Helicopter Flights or visiting the Kaikoura museum Kaikoura Museum, where you can learn about the unique heritage of Kaikoura: their history and culture (Kaikoura-museum.co.nz).
You can also bird watch by boat if that’s your thing. Check on Albatross Watching Tours, Kaikoura, and Albatross Encounter. You can also see whales, dusky dolphins, penguins, and llamas.
But Kaikoura doesn’t have only marine wildlife; it has a lot of mountain, ocean, and beach beauty.
We had this outstanding view from the Fyffe Quay area, where we stayed.
Kaikoura town
Kaikoura town is a mall but has the basics you need: excellent restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping stores.
I have to say that the food was the most delicious I have tasted in New Zealand so far.
What to eat
The next day, we tried a famous place called Bernie’s Diner. It’s an American-style diner and classic car museum. If you miss American food, it’s the place to come – Bernie’s Diner.
The beach
On our way to the beach, we passed Anzac Park, also called Garden of Memories. This garden has a unique feature: have several whalebone arches that pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during the two world wars. This garden gives access to the beach.
The beach is very pleasant, even in the winter. We enjoyed spending some time watching birds and listening to the waves crashing on the rocks. It is very healing, like the Shak Rock beach in Christchurch or New Brighton Beach.
“You can shake the sand from your shoes, but not from your soul.”
Anonymous
Then, at dinner time, we went to Pier restaurant to try some seafood. Wow! That was delicious!
It was time to come back home. Kaikoura is definitely a place that I recommend visiting and spending some time on. Nature is beautiful, the food is delicious, and the people are very friendly.
We decided to take the mountain route to return home, which was a good idea!
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Gandhi