Kaikoura City Guide
A few hours north of Christchurch, you'll find Kaikoura - a town that's chock full of seaside adventures! If you want to spend time getting to know all of the creatures that live under and near the water, Kaikoura is the perfect place to do it. New Zealand Geographic calls Kaikoura a "maritime Serengeti" - a Sea World without walls!
Kaikoura is best known for its whale watching. Depending on the time of year, you can see everything from humpback whales to giant sperm whales. Along your journey, be sure to keep an eye on the sky, since Kaikoura plays host to some of the world's most unique seabirds.
Kaikoura is also home to a large group of seals. Head down to the water at high tide to see them close to the shore. However, the best place to see seals is about 20 minutes outside of town, at Ohau Falls. The tall, thin waterfall is pretty on its own - but it's even more breathtaking when the fur seal pups swim up to it!
If being above sea-level is more your thing, spend some time riding the four-wheelers at the Mt. Fyffe Track. At the top, you'll get some amazing panoramic views of the region.
Kaikoura actually translates to "meal of crayfish" - and, boy, can you eat a lot of it here! One of the most popular places in town to chow down is The Craypot Cafe and Bar on West End. There, you can either eat indoors or out. The Craypot also has other types of seafood and even steaks if you want them.
Most of the hotels in Kaikoura can be found right near the water, along aptly-named Beach Road.
There is also plenty of accommodation further south, along Esplanade, on the Kaikoura Peninsula.
No matter where you stay, though, you're virtually guaranteed to have a great view of the water!