Things to do in Kaikōura

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal landscape with mountains in the background and a turquoise sea in the foreground.
A winding dirt path through a grassy coastal landscape.
Rolling green hills, a distant mountain range with snow-capped peaks, and a clear blue sky.
A small blue and white airplane flying over a mountainous landscape.
A sign for a helicopter whale watch service with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Things to do

Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight

Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight

€112
per adult
Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight
Whale watching in Winter

Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

€90
per adult
78% of travellers recommend
Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
Whale tail splashing in water in the Kaikour whale watching tour in Christchurch New Zealand.

Full-Day Kaikoura Whale-Watching Tour

€189
per adult
Full-Day Kaikoura Whale-Watching Tour
Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight

Kaikōura Whale Watching Scenic Flight (40 Minutes)

€148
per adult
Kaikōura Whale Watching Scenic Flight (40 Minutes)
Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

€105
per adult
Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip
Kaikoura Helicopters Classic Whale Watch

Kaikoura Helicopters Classic Whale Watch

€181
per adult
Kaikoura Helicopters Classic Whale Watch
Kaikoura: Coastal and Alpine Scenic Airplane Flight

Kaikoura: Coastal and Alpine Scenic Airplane Flight

€98
per adult
Kaikoura: Coastal and Alpine Scenic Airplane Flight
Kaikoura Helicopters Extended Whale Watch flight

Kaikoura Helicopters Extended Whale Watch

€254
per adult
Kaikoura Helicopters Extended Whale Watch
Kaikoura: Half-Day Wildlife Kayaking Tour

Kaikoura: Half-Day Wildlife Kayaking Tour

€80
per adult
Kaikoura: Half-Day Wildlife Kayaking Tour
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Most popular experiences in Kaikōura

Tours & day trips

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Kaikoura Private Whale Watching Day Trip from Christchurch

Kaikoura Private Whale Watching Day Trip from Christchurch

Activity duration is 9 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €242 per adult
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Water activities

See all 5 activities
Kaikoura Helicopters Helijet

Kaikoura Helicopters Helijet

Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €474 per adult*
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 3 activities
Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

Activity duration is 3 hours and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 63 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €101 per adult
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What to do in Kaikōura

Stay near popular Kaikōura attractions

Peninsula Walkway

9.4/10 (467 reviews)
This coastal path winds along dramatic cliffs where fur seals bask on rocky outcrops below. Walk the full loop for spectacular views of both the Pacific Ocean and snow-capped Seaward Kaikōura Range.
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Where to stay in Kaikōura

Find the best Kaikōura areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A rocky shoreline with a person standing on the rocks, overlooking a calm sea and a mountain in the background.

South Bay

Though South Bay may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Peninsula Walkway and Point Kean Seal Colony.

A coastal landscape with a rocky shoreline, a clear blue sea, and distant snow-capped mountains.

Kaikoura Flat

While visiting Kaikoura Flat, you might make a stop by sights like Mount Fyffe and Kaikoura Beach.

A seal resting on a rocky surface.

Kaikoura Peninsula

If you're spending some time in Kaikoura Peninsula, Peninsula Walkway and Point Kean Seal Colony are top sights worth seeing.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kaikōura worth visiting?
Whether you're here to experience the cultural highlights and local charm or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there are many things to do in Kaikōura.
How do I spend a day in Kaikōura?
Point Kean Seal Colony and Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park are two awesome places to begin your adventures. Be sure to check out the shopping and dining options in Kaikōura while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kaikōura?
Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Kaikōura and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Kaikōura?
You can easily tick off leading sights like Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park, Kaikoura District Museum and Kaikoura Museum with a three-day getaway in Kaikōura. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so linger longer and check out Kaikoura Flat.
Is Kaikōura a walkable city?
With awesome attractions like Kaikoura District Museum in the area, Kaikōura is every bit a place to experience on foot. Like to visit some hip neighbourhoods a walkable distance from the city centre? Kaikoura Peninsula is just 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Kaikōura with kids?
Planning what to do in Kaikōura with kids has never been easier. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there are lots of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Kaikōura for adults?
From incredible food and cultural hotspots to outdoor activities and unique experiences, there's no shortage of fascinating things to do in Kaikōura for adults.
Are there free things to do in Kaikōura?
In Kaikōura, Peninsula Walkway is a must-see spot for anyone looking to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in Kaikōura.