Kaikoura Attractions and Activities

Kaikoura Attractions and Activities

Kaikoura is internationally famous for whale watching and dolphin swimming and  the Anchor Inn Beachfront Motel is ideally located to take advantage of these activities , as well as the many other attractions Kaikoura has to offer. The Anchor Inn Beachfront Motel is superbly located on  Kaikoura's Esplanade with  the best waterfront and Mountain views and  opposite the beach, within close proximity to the town centre and  Kaikoura's best restaurant the Pier Hotel.

Whale Watching Flights

Whale watching by aeroplane offers a unique perspective and the opportunity to view whales and dolphins in their natural environment. From the air passengers can experience the true magnitude of the world’s largest mammal, the whale. These animals can reach an impressive 18 metres in length and weigh up to 60 tonne!

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Kaikoura Kayak

Enjoy the kayaking adventure of a lifetime in Kaikoura!

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Dolphin and Albatross Encounter and Cafe

Encounter Kaikoura specialises in providing an exhilarating experience of swimming or watching wild dusky dolphins in their natural environment off the Kaikoura coast.

Our fully licensed café provides the perfect setting to enjoy great coffee and cuisine. Our extensive dining area is both inside and outside, welcoming you to take time to soak up the sun and enjoy the view. 0.8km from Anchor Inn (short walking distance). 

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The Pier Hotel Restaurant

Sited on the waterfront at Kaikoura, in New Zealand’s South Island. Come and visit Kaikoura’s classic ‘Kiwi’ pub, iconic nineteenth century character hotel guesthouse and restaurant - famous for the freshest seafood and Kaikoura crayfish. 0.9km from Anchor Inn (short walking distance).

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Kaikoura Lookout

The best view in Kaikoura is only 15mins walk from Anchor Inn via Dempsey's track. From here you can see both sides of the peninsula, amazing at sunrise or sunset. 1.0km from Anchor Inn (short walking distance). Watch the one of our beautiful sunsets with Takeaway fish and chips , a real experience.

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Poppy’s Parlour

Kaikoura's famous handmade ice cream, milkshakes, real fruit smoothies and creamy soft serve!

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Kaikoura Town Centre

With a population of approximately 3,800 residents, the Kaikoura township is located on a rocky peninsula, protruding from lush farmland beneath the mountains. 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'.

Kaikoura Town Centre

Seafood BBQ

Outdoor dining at beautiful Jimmy Armers Beach, on the way to the Seal Colony. They offer a Seafood BBQ in a sunny, relaxed outdoor setting, recommended by Lonely Planet. Freshly cooked crayfish, scallops, mussels, crayfish fritter, paua patties, grilled fish, and seafood chowder... lunch by the beach at it's best.

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Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pā and whaling sites and enjoy clifftop views of the sea and mountains. Suitable for families, the whole walkway takes three hours but you can also explore a range of shorter tracks.

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Whale Watch Kaikoura

Whale Watch is New Zealand's only vessel-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the world’s largest toothed predator the Giant Sperm Whale in their natural environment at all times of the year. Whale Watch scheduled tours operate daily.

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Peninsula Seal Colony Kaikoura

Head up the hill from Point Kean car park to the viewing platform for panoramic views of Kaikoura and the seal colony. Carry on along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway to enjoy the best views of the seal colony below you.

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Seal Swim Kaikoura

Join us for a totally unique experience seal swimming with Kekeno (New Zealand Fur Seals) in their own spectacular marine environment on the beautiful East Coast of the South Island!

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Kaikoura Helicopters

Put yourself in the ultimate vantage point and explore Kaikoura and its many natural wonders by Helicopter. See an entire Whale from head to tail as we fly slow orbits above.

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Emporium Brewery and 18 Hole Mini Golf Course

Located in the beautiful seaside town of Kaikoura on New Zealand's south island The Emporium is not only the new home of Emporium Brewing but it is also a fun place to visit for tourists and locals of all ages.

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Kaikoura Fishing Tours

Kaikoura Fishing Tours skipper Tomo, has had years of experience at sea, taking fisher men and women on fishing adventures in the beautiful Kaikoura area.

The main trip he offers is a two hour excursion with the opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including the infamous crayfish (New Zealand lobster) which are plentiful around the Kaikoura coastline. However, three and four hour excursions are also available, as well as a full day trip.

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Strawberry Tree Restaurant

Located right in the heart of town, Strawberry Tree Kaikoura is warm and welcoming, with a cosy fire, a spacious outdoor beer garden, quirky Irish themed décor and live entertainment. Stop in for a meal, soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere in the beer garden, or settle in for a night of music and laughter...whatever the occasion, you'll be glad you did!

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Seamist Fishing Charters

Located on the East Coast of the South Island, Kaikoura is well known to be one of the best fishing spots in New Zealand.

Just offshore is the Kaikoura Canyon, which provides a unique habitat for sea-life, and allows access to an abundance of fish species, and deep sea fishing within minutes of leaving port.

We operate a range of fishing charters, from 2 to 7 hours. for up to 20 people.  So whether you are an experienced fisherman, a first time novice, or just want to enjoy the scenery, Seamist fishing Charters has an option to suit everyone.

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Kaikoura Cycling Club

With a variety of scenic rides that suit a range of skill levels, there is something for everyone at Kaikoura; Leisurely pedalling seaside ambles, meandering single track through native bush and quiet country roads. More ambitious riders can climb mountains and high mountain passes. Ocean and mountain backdrops loom around every corner.

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Coopers Catch

Kaikouras famous award winning Fish and chip Shop. They offer the true Kaikoura seafood experience, enjoying your fish n chips with the views of the mountains and the smell of the sea. Or eat fish and chips on the beach, 2 minute walk from our shop.

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