Kaikoura
Nestled beneath the mighty Southern Alps Kaikoura is a seaside town half way between Picton and Christchurch. Kaikoura means “Eat Crayfish” in Maori and the fishing port and local stalls and shops provide the freshest crayfish you will ever eat. Seafood is a specialty in the area with local catches including blue cod, scallops, abalone and grouper. The cafes and restaurants have a seaside charm of their own and range from takeaway outlets to lively pubs and fine dining. The Kaikoura winery is located on a limestone bluff and provides a stunning view over the ranges and Pacific Ocean. Tours and tastings are available at the cellar door to sample their award winning wines. Accommodation is largely made up of Bed and Breakfasts, Motels and Backpackers although there are a couple of good holiday parks and lodges In Kaikoura as well. Whale watching is Kaikoura’s other claim to fame. The steep drop off of the continental shelf brings a variety of sea life close to shore including seals, dolphins, penguins and Sperm Whales. The Whale watching tours run year round but are susceptible to the weather, so leave a few days in hand if this is a must do.
Tours run regularly for swimming or kayaking with dolphins and seals and a variety of fishing trips depart from the fishing port for deep sea fishing, surf casting and crayfish gathering. There is a museum in town reciting the history of the first settlers and an old 1854 whaling cottage to visit which includes a 30 minute guided tour. There are several Art Galleries to visit with works from local artists including pottery, art works, wooden sculptures and hand made jewellery just a few of the crafts on show. Guided wilderness walks take in the beauty of Kaikoura with some of them offering 2 and 3 day hikes. There are a number of good walking tracks in the area as well. The beaches offer a couple of good surf breaks and a safe swimming beach in front of the township. There is also a pool here for those that don’t want to venture into the ocean. On the first Saturday in October Kaikoura celebrates its strong connection with the sea and everything it means to the area with Seafest, an annual wine and food festival. Located on the South Island, Kaikoura is one of the few places on earth where the snow capped Mountains virtually meet the sea and is a natural wonder in itself.