Kaikōura Day Trip
”Wildlife Coast”
- Whale watching, seal colonies, dolphins, bird life, kayaking -
Kaikōura means "to eat crayfish" or "meal of crayfish," with "kai" meaning food and "kōura" meaning crayfish.
Tour Highlights
Seal Colonies
Whale Watching
Beautiful New Zealand Coastline with tunnels on the side of the sea
Fresh Seafood BBQ
Optional Extras Available upon request
Kayaking
Swim with the Seals and Dolphins
Inclusions
Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation
Local experienced and friendly driver/guide
Comfortable transport
Small group touring bus
Tour Logistics and drive time information
Alpine Pacific Touring Route - The Alpine Pacific Touring route takes you to the wine and food experiences of Waipara, the spa delights of Hanmer Springs and the marine mammal encounters of Kaikōura. Between destinations, you’ll enjoy beautiful country scenery.
Drive time from Christchurch - 2hrs 20min
Tour duration: 11 hours (approx)
Distance from Christchurch: 185 km (115 miles)
Total distance: 370 km (229.907 miles)
Escape Christchurch for the day and discover Kaikōura – one of the world’s most beautiful places.
Framed by snow-capped mountains on one side and the vast Pacific Ocean on the other, this seaside gem was named one of the world’s most beautiful small towns by Condé Nast Traveler in 2023 – and once you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why.
Your adventure begins with our experienced local driver/guide, who not only knows the road like the back of their hand but also has plenty of stories, insider tips, and perhaps the odd cheeky yarn to keep the journey lively. From Christchurch, we’ll wind our way through the Waipara Wine Region, roll past green countryside, and cruise along the spectacular Canterbury coastline.
In Kaikōura, the real magic unfolds: You will join a whale-watching cruise to meet the giants of the deep, spot playful dolphins, or take to the water by kayak for an up-close look at the incredible marine life. Along the way, our guide will make sure you stop at some truly stunning viewpoints – perfect for stretching the legs, snapping photos, and simply soaking it all in.
And on the way home? If time allows (and if the mood is right), we might just sneak in a stop at Waipara Springs Winery for a well-deserved sip to round off the day. Because why not finish an epic day with a little wine and a smile?
Kaikōura Day Escape – 11 Hour Itinerary
7:00 – 7:30 AM | Christchurch Pick-up
Your adventure begins with a friendly pick-up from your Christchurch accommodation. Meet your experienced local driver/guide and get comfy for the scenic drive north through rolling farmland and the Waipara Wine Region.
10:00 AM | Arrive in Kaikōura
Take in the stunning views as the mountains meet the sea – Kaikōura’s world-famous coastline is a photographer’s dream.
10:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Whale Watch Tour
Head out on your unforgettable Whale Watch Kaikōura experience. Spot the majestic sperm whales, playful dolphins, and other incredible marine life that call these waters home.
1:15 PM – 2:15 PM | Kaikōura BBQ Lunch
Tuck into a pre-ordered seafood platter (one per person, drink included) at the famous Kaikōura Seafood BBQ, right by the ocean. It doesn’t get fresher than this!
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM | Seal Colony Visit
Meet Kaikōura’s cheeky fur seals up close at the local seal colony. There’s time to wander, watch, and enjoy the incredible coastal scenery.
3:15 – 5:30 PM | Scenic Drive South with Extra Stops
Begin the journey back towards Christchurch, with a few surprise scenic stops along the way – perfect for photos, stretching the legs, and soaking in more of Canterbury’s epic landscapes.
5:30 – 6:15 PM | Optional Waipara Springs Winery (time permitting)
If the day allows, we’ll stop at Waipara Springs Winery for a tasting session in the heart of North Canterbury’s wine country. The perfect way to round off an epic day.
6:30 – 7:00 PM | Return to Christchurch
Arrive back in Christchurch after a day packed with marine wonders, delicious food, and stunning scenery – memories to last a lifetime.