Nau mai haere mai – welcome
Kaikōura – where the mountains meet the sea, where marine life is visible from on and offshore, where the people are friendly and do not want to live anywhere else.
We look forward to hosting you. Below are some of our favourite reasons we choose to live here and why you should come too.
The Wildlife
There are very few places in New Zealand where you can expect to see Sperm whales from the shore all year. We think the best place to see them is here because not only can you marvel at their awesomeness but also:
- Hectors, Dusky and Common (but not dull) dolphins
- Orca
- Humpback whales (in June and July)
- Fur seals
- Albatross
- Blue penguins
Book an adventure
Swim, kayak, boat trip through:
- Whale Watch Kaikōura (by Boat)
- South Pacific Whale Watch Kaikōura (by Helicopter)
- Wings over Whales (by fixed-wing plane)
- Dolphin Swimming and Albatross encounter
Or simply watch from the luxury of your private deck when you stay with us – you never know what you might see fly/swim past.
The Geology
Living through a magnitude 7.8 earthquake was as horrific as it sounds, but now the dust has settled, the altered landscape is a must-see for any geologist (armchair or university-trained). The foreshore was uplifted by nearly six metres in some areas, exposing the seabed permanently. While significant landslips and ruptures made for difficult access to Kaikōura and its surroundings, new roading and design have ensured that the region remains one of the most spectacular scenic routes in New Zealand.
Activities by land
Nowhere else in New Zealand can you enjoy stunning vistas of the mountains meeting the ocean whilst cycling, walking, paddling, horse riding or tramping at your own pace. Kaikōura has something to suit every level of fitness and interest. Just a few of the activities to enjoy whilst you are here include:
Four seasons but
not in one day
Kaikōura has a temperate climate which translates to not too cold, not too hot. Temperatures range from an average low of 5.8 degrees (no frostbite here) to a pleasant 20.6 degrees on average over summer. It also has the advantage of four distinct seasons, which means whichever your favourite – the vivid green of Spring, sun-filled Summer, colourful Autumn or snow-capped mountain Winter; you can expect to experience it in full here.
Community
Escapees from the big smoke, fisher people, Tangata Whenua, descendants of early settlers, creatives, artists, farmers, townies, marine biologists, geologists, tradespeople – the list goes on. The one thing all who live here have in common? They love the place and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. Wherever you visit whilst here, you will meet a local with a story and a warm welcome. When you stay, you will feel like you have come home. Act with respect and care for the environment and people, and you will be rewarded with offers to come back and visit anytime.