Kaikōura

PRICED FROM $1,445 | DURATION: 3 days & 2 nights

Discover Kaikōura — where the mountains meet the sea. A place of natural wonders, vast marine wildlife, delicious seafood, and passionate locals.

Regional Highlights

Kaikōura, nestled between rugged mountains and the Pacific Ocean, offers a wealth of natural wonders, including whale watching, dolphin encounters, and stunning coastal walks, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Whale Watching: Kaikōura is famous for its whale-watching opportunities. Take a boat tour to see majestic sperm whales, as well as other marine life such as dolphins, seals, and seabirds.
Dolphin Encounters: Swim or kayak with dusky dolphins in their natural habitat for a memorable, interactive experience and the chance to observe these playful creatures up close.
Seal Colony: Visit the Ohau Point Seal Colony, where you can see New Zealand fur seals lounging on the rocks and swimming in the pools below. It's a great spot for photography and wildlife viewing.
Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway: Embark on this scenic coastal walkway for stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and seal colonies. The trail is relatively easy and offers opportunities for birdwatching.
Maori Tours: Learn about the cultural heritage of the region with guided Maori tours. Gain insights into traditional practices, stories, and customs while experiencing a warm Maori welcome.
Fishing: Enjoy fishing charters or try your luck fishing from the shore for a chance to catch salmon, cod, and other species abundant in the waters off Kaikoura.

With its diverse range of activities and stunning natural beauty, Kaikōura offers an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion.

Includes

Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus Dining Experience Christchurch to Kaikōura
Transfer Kaikōura to the hotel
EcoZip Adventure including a 4x4 expedition, a native forest trail and five ziplines from 250m to 650m
2 nights’ accommodation at the 4.5-star hotel Sudima Kaikoura
Full-cooked breakfast daily
Whale Watch Kaikoura nature cruise
Guided Waipara Valley wine tour and transfer from Kaikoura to Christchurch

Price per person - share twin

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1. CHRISTCHURCH /COASTAL PACIFIC / KAIKŌURA

Board the picturesque Coastal Pacific Train for your all-inclusive Scenic Plus breakfast dining experience. Meander along rugged coastlines, across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, and enjoy a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty.
Ease back and appreciate the views through oversized panoramic windows in your spacious cabin, while you are served a seasonal menu inspired by the mountains and coast.
Disembark in Kaikōura, famous for its marine life and whale watching. Kaikōura literally translates into "to eat crayfish". During your stay we highly recommend trying the local crayfish famed for its moreish flavour, and delicate sweetness with hints of nuttiness.
This afternoon join an eco-adventure tour and zipline. Traverse by 4x4 through a sprawling 3,000-acre working farm adorned with rolling valleys, native trees, trickling rivers, cascading waterfalls, and lush farmland. Take a short walk through a native New Zealand forest trail which brings you to the start of your eco-zipline adventure. Experience the thrill of gliding through the air as the spectacular sea and mountain views unfold beneath you.
Located on the shoreline, Sudima Kaikōura is a brand new 4.5-star hotel with stunning views of mountains and sea. Their onsite restaurant Hiku, celebrates what Kaikōura is all about — kai moana, (sea food), fresh produce, and dramatic scenery.
**Stay: Sudima Kaikōura**

DAY 2. KAIKŌURA

Today get up-close with the world’s largest toothed predator, the giant sperm whale. Your Whale Watch cruise takes you on an unforgettable journey in a purpose built vessel providing great viewing and photographic opportunities. See Sperm Whales, or up to 14 other species of whales and dolphins that migrate past at different times of the year.
This unique marine experience also provides an opportunity to sight high-spirited Dusky Dolphins, the rare and endangered Hectors Dolphin, New Zealand Fur Seals, and a wide variety of sea birds including the Royal Albatross.
**Stay: Sudima Kaikōura**

DAY 3. KAIKŌURA/ WAIPARA VALLEY / CHRISTCHURCH

Today your guide will collect you and introduce you to the North Canterbury wine region. Over 40 vineyards and wineries pepper the Waipara Valley landscape, producing Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc that are renowned for their intense flavours, richness and complex fruit. Enjoy a relaxed lunch and winery tasting prior to continuing on to Christchurch.
**Bid farewell to your driver at the airport before boarding for flights home.**

Your Accommodation

Sudima Kaikōura | 114 Esplanade, Kaikōura

Brand new Sudima Kaikōura is located on the shoreline with stunning sea and mountain views. It is just a short walk to the town centre and main activity offices. As the only full-service hotel in Kaikōura, it is the perfect base for your stay.

The onsite restaurant, Hiku, celebrates what Kaikōura is all about - kai moana, fresh produce, and dramatic sea and mountainscapes. Hiku is open all day, every day, from 6am.