Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikoura, Culture and
Wildlife
Upon arriving in Kaikoura take the chance to get a rare insight
into the spirituality of Maori at the relaxed and friendly
atmosphere of Maori Tours Kaikoura. An
experience rather than a show, you will be invited and encouraged
to participate, while encountering a real cultural exchange.
For lunch relax in the atmosphere of the beachfront at Café
Encounter. This fully licensed café is located within the Encounter
Kaikoura complex, providing a wonderful setting in which to
enjoy great coffee and cuisine.
After lunch make your way to Whaleway Road and get ready to
experience Kaikoura's amazing wildlife with Whale
Watch Kaikoura. During your ocean journey aboard one of the
modern catamaran, you will get up close with Kaikoura's famous
Whale residents. Seeing the whales in their natural environment is
a simply breath taking experience!
Enjoy dinner this evening at The Pier Restaurant. Part of the
new Canterbury Wine & Food Trail, this is the place that locals
and tourists alike rate as one of the best seafood restaurants in
the region. This historic hotel offers a pure "kiwiana"
experience.
Make your stay truly unforgettable by staying at Hapuku Lodge- Nested 30
feet (10m) above the ground in the canopy of a native Manuka grove,
each Tree House is designed to be a contemporary complement to the
environment.
Day 2: Kaikoura, Nature and Sea-life
This morning enjoy Kaikoura's well renowned coastal scenery on
the Kaikoura
Peninsula Walkway. The track offers spectacular views of the
coastline and Kaikoura Mountains, the area is also home to many sea
birds. Information panels explain the views and tell the
peninsula story. Stroll along either a section, or the whole
11.7kms of this beautiful walkway. Allow at least 3 hours to
complete the whole loop.
Next, take some time to explore Kaikoura Township. Check out the local shops,
the arts and crafts scene, and grab a light lunch at one of the
many cafes Kaikoura has to offer.
This afternoon grab your wetsuit and get ready to meet the one
of the most delightfully exuberant characters of the Southern Ocean
- the Dusky Dolphin. Dolphin Encounter offers two options
for visitors wanting to see the dusky dolphins, swimming or
watching - an exciting way to get amongst the varied and vibrant
sea life found off Kaikoura.
For dinner this evening try the Green Dolphin Restaurant. This
restaurant has commanding views across the bay to the Seaward
Mountains. They use fresh quality produce, organic when available
from Marlborough and the local seas.
Day 3: Kaikoura to Christchurch, Wine and
Caves
This morning take the opportunity to sample the delights of the
Kaikoura
Winery. This small modern winery is set on a limestone bluff
just north of the Kaikoura town ship overlooking the Pacific Ocean;
it's New Zealand's closest winery to the sea. While you are here,
take a take a tour through the winery and the underground
cellar.
Before heading back to Christchurch, check out The Maori
Leap Caves, Kaikoura's oldest attraction. Formed by the
ocean, the caves stun visitors with spectacular stalactites and
straw formations.
Key Links
- Being New Zealand's largest independent car rental company,
Apex Car Rentals offers a large fleet of new and late model car
hire options. Contact Apex for car rental
information and booking.