Kaikōura Day Tour With Kayak Experience From Christchurch

Show all photos
8 to 10 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023.

You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.

What's Included

WiFi on board
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Famous local Fish n Chips
Kayaking wildlife experience
Local kiwi snacks
100% authentic kiwi experience

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted. Please make sure you have let us know your pickup location. For hotel pickups please be waiting at or Infront of reception.

Please see pick up times below
07:55 Hotel Elms
08:03 Scenic Hotel Cotswold
8:08 Sudima City
08:10 Crowne Plaza
08:12 Novotel City
08:14 Distinction
08:17 Christchurch City Hotel
08:20 Christchurch Bus Interchange (Intercity stop)
08:24 Breakfree
08:27 Rydges Latimer
08:30 Urbanz
08:33 Fino
08:35 The George
08:40 Hotel Give
08:55 Commodore Christchurch Airport
09:00 Sudima Christchurch Airport

OR
Meeting point
Bus Interchange (Lichfield St)

We only pick up from locations we have been notified of. Please make sure you let us know your pick up location will be the bus interchange. Please be waiting at the Intercity Bus Stop on Lichfield Street. It is recommended that you arrive 5 minutes prior to your pick up time.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 10 hours (approximately)
  • Canterbury Region (Pass by)

    We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head north towards Kaikōura, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights and facts about the wider Canterbury region.

    Admission ticket free
  • 1

    Our first stop is in Cheviot, a hidden gem on one of New Zealand’s largest coastal routes. This is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and refuel. After our brief break, we’ll continue through the stunning Hundalee Hills, where you’ll have a chance to spot surfers and local wildlife, including seals! The scenic drive offers spectacular views all along the way.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Kaikoura

    The highlight of the tour! Upon arriving in Kaikōura, our guide will take you for a classic Kiwi fish and chip lunch, before we drop you at your pre-booked Wildlife Kayak Experience. You are guaranteed to view fur seals and take in the sheer cliff faces, craggy tocks and mountain ranges while searching for potential encounters with dusky dolphins and blue penguins - and perhaps even some albatross. This experience is suitable for all abilities and is fully guided, with all equipment provided. *Please note that this product is purely for those interested in kayaking. There will be no time for additional walks or local shopping unfortunately. We will grab some lunch before your Kayaking experience begins. "Experience the excitement of watching seals ducking, weaving and diving around your kayak. Have chance encounters with dolphins, penguins and albatross!" We will drop you off and pick you up from this experience of a lifetime.

    4 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    If Time Allows: Waipara - If time permits, we’ll stop at Waipara, a renowned wine region surrounded by lush vineyards and green hills. Here, you can taste a selection of locally produced wines from a family-owned vineyard. Don’t worry if wine’s not your thing beer and non-alcoholic options are available as an alternative! (THIS STOP IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILTY NO REFUND PROVIDED)

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Christchurch

    After a fantastic day in Kaikōura, we’ll head back to the Garden City. Christchurch, Sit back and where you can relax after a day full of and reflect on a day full of stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

    1 minute • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Only persons over the age of 18 years old will be served alcohol
  • Dietary options are available for lunch. We must be informed of these requirements at the time of booking.
Supplied by Cheeky Kea Tours

Show 1 more

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Kayaking Tours
Water Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Adventure Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more

Likely to sell out
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}
Book Now