Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in Kaikoura.
The seaside settlement of Kaikoura, situated midway between Christchurch and Picton on the rugged east
coast of New Zealand's South Island, is overlooked by majestic mountains, which are snow-capped for many
months of the year. This unique combination of ocean and mountains offers stunning coastal alpine scenery
and a host of eco-tourism oriented activities, including Whale watching, Dolphin swimming, walks, and much
more!
With a population of almost 4,000 residents, the Kaikoura township is located on a rocky peninsula, protruding
from lush farmland beneath the mountains.The environment is truly spectacular – the village is caught between
the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean. In winter the mountains are covered with snow,
adding to the drama of the landscape. In the waters off the peninsula, a complex marine system provides an
abundantly rich habitat for marine mammals and seabirds making it an ideal place for getting 'close to nature'.
A town with it's own fasinating history, archaeological remains indicate that Moa Hunters inhabited the
peninsula 900 years ago. In Maori legend, Maui placed his foot on the Kaikoura peninsula to steady himself
while he 'fished-up' the North Island. The Maori name Kaikoura translates to 'meal of crayfish' (Kai - food,
koura - crayfish), and it is crayfish for which the region has traditionally been famous. The area's abundant
food sources attracted Maori settlement, and the remains of several pa sites can still seen on the peninsula
to this day.
Kaikoura, being an important fishing port, is a mecca for seafood lovers with ample fresh delicacies for
all. Local specialties include grouper, cod, mussels, paua (abalone), and of course the towns namesake -
Crayfish (lobster). Kaikoura, New Zealand has a fantastic selection of cuisine and dining attractions where
you can experience some of the finest food and wines in NZ. The town is also home to numerous artists and
craftspeople, all of whom creatively incorporate local flavour into their designs. Kaikoura has many inspirational
and world-class local artists.
They include creators in materials as diverse as bone, wood, greenstone gold, metal, glass, clay, and silk as
well as paintings, sketches and the modern art of gold leaf gilding. Art on this trail varies from whimsical and
wacky to the more sedate. You may see artists at work in their studios or peruse the work of many at well-
presented galleries.
Art lessons are available at some studios and you have the hands on experience of creating your own souvenir.
Few places on Earth possess the magic of Kaikoura. It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful
natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and ocean currents converge.
With vast open spaces filled with stunning rugged landscapes, gorgeous coastal vistas, a abundance of natural
wonders and fascinating animal and plant life, it is no surprise that Kaikoura has become so attractive to visitors
from other countries.
Learn more about Kaikoura and its activities. Check them out here
