Kaikōura is made for exploration. Known as the Marine Serengeti, this unique corner of New Zealand offers rare wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and a mix of land and sea adventures.
Where Nature Comes to You.
Whether you’re here for the whales, the trails, or the views, there’s an experience waiting for every kind of traveller. Let our team help you choose and book the right experience for your interests. We work closely with trusted local operators to ensure every adventure is safe, memorable and personal.
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Whale-Watching Tours
See the giants of the deep with local tour operators such as Whale Watch Kaikōura and Wings Over Whales. Sperm whales are present year-round, with seasonal visits from humpbacks, orca, and more.
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Swim or Kayak with Dolphins and Seals
Get up close to Kaikōura’s marine life with operators such as Dolphin Encounter and Kaikoura Kayaks. You might even spot a super pod of dusky dolphins along the coast.
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Kaikōura Seal Colony
Watch fur seals bask on the rocks or play in the waves just south of town. You can also spot them at Mangamaunu beach and Ohau Point near the Lodge.
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Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway
A scenic coastal trail with lookouts over cliffs, ocean and wildlife. This three-hour loop combines history, geology and unbeatable views.
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EcoZip Adventures
Zipline through native forest and across gullies while learning about local ecology and culture. An opportunity for couples, families and thrill-seekers alike to see Kaikōura from a whole new perspective.
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Mountain Biking Trails
Borrow bikes from the Lodge and hit local trails like Middle Hill or the Inland Kaikōura Range. A great way to explore off the beaten path.
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Scenic Flights
Take to the skies with a helicopter or plane tour for a unique view of Kaikōura’s mountains, ocean and marine life.
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How We Can Help
Let our team help you choose and book the right experience for your interests. We work closely with trusted local operators to ensure every adventure is safe, memorable and personal.
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Everyone was so kind and went above and beyond to ensure we had a perfect stay. And the restaurant. There aren’t enough words to properly describe how good the food was here. Eat everything.”
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A truly exceptional hotel. Excellent food in the restaurant – including the best sourdough bread and home-produced olive oil – and the banana bread at breakfast was totally delicious too!”
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The weather was cool during our stay, but not too cool to experience the mineral swimming pool for the first time – the hype is real! We warmed up in the spa followed by a sauna.”
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For a 20th anniversary celebration, this was perfect. We enjoyed a massage on-property, which was fantastic. The level of service, in our opinion, was above a 5-star.”
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The pool area had spectacular countryside views, with deer and a backdrop of spectacular mountains. One evening we used the jacuzzi in the ‘secret garden’ area – a truly magical spot under the stars!”
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Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses was easily one of the most memorable places we’ve ever stayed. Every meal felt thoughtful and local, and the service was warm without being over the top.”
