Things to Do in Kaikoura

• Whale watching and swimming with the dolphins
  Local operators offer tours allowing visitors to enjoy this unique marine experience, but it pays to book ahead especially in summer. Marine life in the area includes sperm whales, Hector's dolphins, dusky dolphins, NZ fur seals, bottlenose dolphins, orcas, pilot whales and blue penguins. Sperm whales can be seen all year round, and orcas are more frequent from December to March.
• Mount Lyford Alpine Resort
  Skiing, snow-boarding and snow-tubing all year round.
• Kaikoura Peninsula
  There are some lovely walks along this rocky promontory, which is home to a seal colony on the rocks around East Head and Atia Point.
• Fyffe House
  Located near the old wharf at the eastern end of town is Kaikoura's oldest house, built around 1860 and named for its owner George Fyffe. The building is the only one to survive from the town's whaling era and is protected by the Historic Places Trust.
• Kaikoura Museum
  A collection of relics, photographs and displays showcasing the region’s history, including its whaling history.
• Maori Leap Cave
  Located 3 kilometres from Kaikoura, this limestone cavern is cut into the base of Maori Leap cliff, and was hollowed out by underground streams. There are some fine honey-coloured stalactites and stalagmites, and straw formations. Tours leave from the Caves Restaurant, 3km south of town.
• Little Garden of Memories
  A garden dominated by Norfolk pines and features several whalebone arches. The remains of the historic Takahanga Pa can be found on the hillside above the Garden.
• Puhi Puhi Scenic Reserve
  Located in a valley 17km north of Kaikoura, this reserve has several tracks and lookouts providing views over the mountains and valley. Native birds such as the tui, bellbird and wood pigeon are common.
• Safaris & Tours
  Kaikoura Four Wheel Adventures and KK Taxi & Scenic Land Tours offer sightseeing and adventure tours.
• Walking Tracks
  The Kaikoura Coast Track is a private walk along the breathtaking beauty of the Kaikoura Coast, providing magnificent views of mountains, sea, bush and remote farmland.
• Southern Oceans Marine Mammal Sanctuary
  A marine sanctuary protecting albatross, gannets, Hector's dolphins, native penguins and seals.