The
Story
of Kaikōura
The Story of kaikōura
Kaikōura comes from the Māori words kai (food) and kōura (crayfish), meaning “eat crayfish.”
Inspired by the legend of chief Tama ki te Rangi stopping here to feast on crayfish during his travels. Blessed by the nutrient-rich Kaikōura Canyon, the area has long been a haven for marine life—whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds—shaping its history from an ancient Māori settlement to a whaling hub, and now, a world-class wildlife destination. It’s a place where culture, nature, and ocean meet in spectacular harmony.
This coastal haven is home to some of the richest marine biodiversity in the Southern Hemisphere. Spot majestic whales breaching the surface, playful dolphins dancing in the waves, and New Zealand fur seals basking along the shore. Keep an eye on the skies, where the Snowy Albatross—known for its record-breaking wingspan—soars gracefully above, completing this extraordinary marine tableau. The waters of Kaikōura are also famed for their world-class seafood, including succulent crayfish and paua, offering a true taste of the region.
For travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with the natural world, Kaikōura is a hidden gem that promises unforgettable memories and a profound appreciation for New Zealand’s extraordinary landscape and biodiversity.
From the World to
Kaikoura
Nestled in a remote corner of the South Pacific, Kaikoura is a gem of New Zealand’s South Island. This coastal town is uniquely positioned between the soaring Southern Alps and the vast Pacific Ocean, offering a striking blend of landscapes that captivates all who visit. As part of a country celebrated for its pristine wilderness and unspoiled beauty, Kaikoura stands out as a destination where nature thrives in its purest form, inviting travelers from across the globe to experience its wonders.
from Land to Sea
Kaikoura’s cuisine is a reflection of its rich natural surroundings, offering a true taste of the region. From the ocean’s bounty comes world-renowned crayfish, succulent paua, and freshly caught fish, while the land provides seasonal produce, artisan cheeses, and locally crafted delicacies.
Whether dining at a seaside restaurant, indulging in a private chef’s creations, or sampling the offerings of local markets, every dish tells a story of Kaikoura’s vibrant landscape. Here, food isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that captures the essence of this extraordinary destination.
Kaikoura’s breathtaking geography is a testament to the raw power of nature, where the earth’s forces converge to create one of the most dynamic landscapes on the planet.
The Kaikoura mountains rise dramatically from the coastline, shaped by tectonic activity that is unparalleled in New Zealand. These peaks are growing at an astonishing rate of 10 millimeters per year, outpacing any other mountains in the country and puts them amongst some of the world’s fastest-rising mountains.
Just as the peaks soar higher, the depths below the Kaikoura coastline are equally extraordinary. The Kaikoura Submarine Canyon, part of the Kermadec Trench system, plunges over 2,000 meters beneath the sea and connects to one of the deepest ocean trenches in the world. The Kermadec Trench reaches a staggering maximum depth of 10,010 meters, making it the fourth deepest trench on Earth. This unique underwater canyon drives nutrient-rich currents to the surface, creating a marine ecosystem so diverse and abundant it is unmatched in the Southern Hemisphere.
This rare juxtaposition of rapidly rising peaks and one of the planet’s deepest ocean trenches defines Kaikoura’s unique character, offering visitors a window into the geological and ecological marvels that make this destination truly one of a kind.
Kaikoura offers a world of extraordinary experiences, where the natural beauty of land, sea, and sky converge. Embark on unforgettable adventures like whale watching and dolphin encounters, exploring the abundant marine life in the nutrient-rich waters of the Kaikoura Submarine Canyon.
On land, hike scenic trails through ancient forests, discover rugged mountain vistas, or visit local wildlife sanctuaries. As night falls, the clear, unpolluted skies reveal a dazzling canopy of stars, perfect for stargazing and celestial exploration. In Kaikoura, every moment is an invitation to connect with the wonders of nature and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Explore
Kaikoura
Discover a visual journey through our world
