Kaikoura - famous for wildlife
PHOTO: Sperm whale, Kaikoura
Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in Kaikoura.
The seaside settlement of Kaikoura, situated an easy two hours drive from either Christchurch or Picton on the rugged east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is overlooked by majestic mountains which are snow-capped for many months of the year. The township is located on a rocky peninsula protruding from lush farmland beneath the mountains. In the waters off this peninsula, a complex marine system provides an abundantly rich habitat for marine mammals and seabirds. It was Kaikoura’s numerous species of whales, dolphins and seals that first attracted European settlers to the town when the whaling industry began in the early 1800’s.
History
Archaeological remains indicate that Moa Hunters inhabited the peninsula 900 years ago. Later, the area’s abundant food sources attracted Maori settlement, and the remains of several pa sites can still be seen.
Top Attractions
- The drive to Kaikoura is the sixth longest alpine coastal route in the world, with the seaward Kaikoura mountains being the highest part of land closest to the sea anywhere in New Zealand. This unique combination of ocean and mountains never fails to leave visitors to the area in awe.
- Visitors flock to the area throughout the year to view and interact with numerous species of marine life. It is one of the few places in the world to offer trips to whales, dolphins and seals anytime of the year. Local tour operators continuously achieve success rates of at least 90% for sightings. Kaikoura is also renowned for its abundant fishing grounds and colourful reef diving.
- The three hour Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway provides access to a NZ Fur Seal colony and is New Zealand’s most popular half day walk, with its spectacular views of mountains and coast.
- Kaikoura translates to “meal of crayfish” in Maori and the area is famous for a variety of seafood, with crayfish (lobster) the local specialty. Each year during the first weekend of October thousands of people gather together for an annual celebration of the abundance of the ocean and all its represents for Kaikoura, at the Kaikoura Seafest. An extravaganza of tastes, sights and sounds, Seafest is quickly becoming known as one of the premier festivals in the country.
Arts & Crafts
Kaikoura is home to numerous artists and crafts people, all of which creatively incorporate local flavour into their designs.
Adventure
On land an excellent range of activities awaits, ranging from 4-wheel motorbiking, rafting and horse trekking, to cave tours, skiing and scenic mountain flights. For those who enjoy walking, the Kaikoura area offers walks for all tastes and levels of fitness, ranging from thirty minutes duration to half and full day tracks and more energetic tramps and climbs.
Accommodation & Restaurants
Accommodation in Kaikoura is extensive with a great selection of restaurants, cafes and two excellent wineries.
More Information
For more information contact the Kaikoura i-SITE Visitor Centre, Westend, Kaikoura,
Phone 03 319 5641.
Email: info@kaikoura.co.nz