Sperm whales are perhaps the most famous residents here, living with dusky dolphins, fur seals and albatross.

There's something captivating to see year round, with migrating species making themselves known as the seasons shift.

Explore wildlife by boat, kayak, plane or helicopter, or for a much closer encounter, swim alongside seals and dolphins.

View New Zealand fur seals at Point Kean or at the Ōhau Point seal colony lookout.

Kaikōura has a captivating history and remnants of early Māori and European settlement remain throughout the region.

Visit Kaikōura Museum or the historic Fyffe House to learn about Kaikōura's whaling history. 

For the more active, the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway is a great way to explore the area. Information panels along the walk highlights the history of the local people, geology and marine environment that makes Kaikōura so unique.

Kaikōura's beautiful environment is a massive source of pride, and locals are committed to protecting it for future generations.

Kaikōura is unrivalled in its seafood culture, offering visitors a chance to eat like a local. Be sure to sample the ocean larder while in town.

Crayfish is a local specialty, served from roadside stalls, beachside caravans and the township's various restaurants.

Grab an iconic fish and chip parcel and chow down by the seaside, perhaps with a local vintage to wash it all down. This is seaside living at its best.