Also in the Area

Land & sea, Kaikoura is a destination for all seasons

Whether you’re looking for family activities, adventure, sight seeing or animal encounters there is plenty for you to do before or after you walk the Kaikoura Coast Track. Here are some of our most recommended activities.

Whale & dolphin watching

Whale watching is one of those must-do life experiences. Kaikoura is the home of whale watching in New Zealand and there are many environmentally focused tourism operators in the area. Being rich in nutrients the Kaikoura coastal environment entices a wide range of marine animals to the area. These include Giant Sperm Whales which can be seen all year round. Seasonal species include Dusky Dolphins, Hectors Dolphin, Fur Seals and a wide variety of seabirds including the Royal Albatross.

Snorkelling with seals

One of Lonely Planet’s top choices for Kaikoura is to swim with NZ’s playful fur seals in the shallow waters of the Kaikoura Peninsula.

“It's one of those simple nature experiences that opens your mind to the sheer magnificence of our natural environment and its amazing inhabitants. A breath taking nature activity. You won’t believe how curious, friendly and playful New Zealand Fur Seals can be in the water.”

Visit sealswimkaikoura.co.nz

Kayaking

Keen to get out on the water and explore the Kaikoura Peninsula from the seat of a kayak? Kaikoura has some excellent options for kayaking and kayak fishing. There are operators in the area who take tours, provide kayak hire and kayaking lessons. Chances are you’ll see fur seals and dolphins just a few paddle strokes from the shore. Suitable for all ages and abilities, operating year round.

Photo from levispedalkayaks.co.nz

Skiing and Snowboarding


Although the Kaikoura Coast Track is closed from 1 May to 30 September if you’re in Kaikoura at this time head up to Mt Lyford for some skiing. Located 1hr and 20 mins drive from Kaikoura, Mt Lyford has terrain for all abilities. They provide hire equipment, lessons, cafe, tubing, shuttle, accommodation, terrain park, half-pipe and groomed slopes.

Visit mtlyford.co.nz

Panorama Motel

The Panorama Motel accommodation complex in Kaikoura can truly claim to have magnificent and largely uninterrupted sea and mountain views.

Situated just metres from the sea, each room boasts views that capture the majesty of the mountains, the ever-changing character of the sea, and frame some of the most stunning sunsets and sunrises you will ever see.

Panorama Motel

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Getting Here

Easy access by either bus or car, begin and end at the same location. View maps and transport options here!

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Skull Peak Lunch Hut

Photo Gallery

People who walk the track often leave with special photos to remember their experience, you can check some of them out here

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Ratings & Reviews on Google

Based on reviews

We spent a fantastic two weeks on the South Island for our honeymoon and the Kaikoura Coast Track was one of the best parts. Wonderful views, rich variety of landscapes, and comfy places to stay. Highly recommended!
-Will Best

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