THE COAST WITH THE MOST

DESTINATION

There are few places on earth like Kaikōura, a small coastal village that has breathtaking views that will stop you in your tracks. The towering snow-clad mountains known as the Seaward Kaikōura’s provide a stunning backdrop over the town centre, which extends out to the Kaikōura Peninsula, where the waves of the Pacific Ocean roll in.

The mountains rise to heights are 2600m, and the undersea canyon plunges to depths of over 1200m very close to shore; these two geological wonders alone make Kaikōura incredibly unique. There are not many places where you can be on top of a snow-capped mountain in the morning, whale watch, or dolphin/seal swim in the afternoon and then take in a gorgeous sunset while feasting upon fresh seafood from the very ocean you are sitting beside.

This place captivates all who visit; you can’t help but be in awe of nature’s wonders both on land and sea.

STAY IN STYLE AT SUDIMA

Located right on the shoreline, Sudima Kaikōura is a brand new 4.5-star hotel with stunning views of the mountains, coastline, and sea, and it is conveniently located just a short stroll from the township centre and main activity and attraction booking offices. As the only full-service hotel in Kaikōura, it features well-appointed rooms, 24-hour room service, a popular restaurant and bar Hiku, an outdoor heated infinity pool, a gym, and two sea-view function rooms perfect for conferences, parties, and events for up to 180 people. With its contemporary fit-out, modern facilities and services, and waterfront location, Sudima Kaikōura is the perfect base for a weekend getaway from Christchurch to explore Kaikōura and its world renowned natural wonders or just to get away, kick back, and indulge for a night or two. sudimahotels.com/en/our-hotels/kaikoura

DON’T MISS A TRIP TO NIN’S BIN

Opened in 1977 by Ronald Clark, 20 minutes north of Kaikoura, Nin’s Bin is still a familyrun business fifty years later. Nin’s Bins philosophy is simple; don’t mess with it! This fresh, local, sustainably-caught crayfish and seafood is cooked onsite with nothing more than fresh mineral water, with the exception of fresh lemon and a little garlic butter if you so desire. It’s a must-visit! ninsbin.co.nz

YOU, THE OCEAN, AND THE DOLPHINS

Kaikōura is one of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in their natural environment. It’s just you, the open ocean, and Kaikōura’s wild Dusky Dolphins. One of the most interactive and acrobatic species of dolphin, they’re thrilling to watch and magical to interact with. Here the encounter is all on their terms. With one of the highest success rates in the world, this bucket list experience is one you will never forget! dolphinencounter.co.nz

THE RICHNESS OF HISTORY

Located in the landmark ‘craypot’ building in Kaikōura’s West End, the award-winning Museum offers a modern and relaxed environment with a contemporary and fun approach to telling the stories of Kaikōura’s natural, social, and cultural journey. Through impressive collections, exhibitions, events, and programmes, the richness of the unique heritage is brought to life, inspiring visitors to explore and enjoy Kaikōura’s diverse and colourful history. kaikoura-museum.co.nz

ON THE TRAIL

The Kowhai suits most riders of average ability, though it does have some roots, rocks, and obstacles, so bike within your abilities. The trailhead starts at the South Bay turn-off by the racecourse on State Highway 1. The trail follows its way along between the road and ocean to the Kowhai Bridge. From there, the trail follows a mix of single track and gravel stop bank riding to the Mt Fyffe car park. The track distance is 17.7km, one way. kaikouracycling.co.nz

TAKE A SURF BREAK

Breaking over a boulder bottom, Mangamaunu is a great spot for intermediate to expert-level surfers. It is a long, righthand pointbreak perched right next to the Kaikōura mountain ranges. The views of the snowcapped mountains in the cooler months are not to be missed! Fun, 200m + rides are the norm. A well-known popular spot, but don’t worry if crowds aren’t your thing. There are other breaks peeling close by. fb.com/kaikourasurfnz

AN ABUNDANT WALK

Walk Kaikōura’s hidden coastline with abundant wildlife, tussock-covered tops and farmland. Relax at lunch shelters with great views while enjoying a refreshing drink. Tramp through bush-filled gullies to views of the Seaward Kaikōura mountains rising out of the vast Pacific Ocean. Meet farming families who have lived in the region for generations. This is a two-day experience on a private, paid track, so come prepared! kaikouratrack.co.nz

Dolphin Encounter

Swimming with & watching Kaikoura’s Dusky Dolphins!

Enter the world of the dusky dolphin and experience the grace and beauty of the most acrobatic of all dolphin species. Kaikoura is the best place in the world to see multiple species of albatross. Enjoy close up views of these majestic wanderers of the Southern Ocean just minutes from shore.

Don’t miss these world-class tours... advance bookings essential.

Albatross Encounter

Summer’s great journey

Make this holiday season a wonderful celebration of Aotearoa, and create new memories on one of three scenic train lines – Picton to Christchurch on The Coastal Pacific, to the West Coast on the TranzAlpine, or Auckland to Wellington on the Northern Explorer. The time for travel has returned, and what better way to do it than by train?

ESCAPE BY RAIL

The scenic rail’s short breaks and packages make life as easy as it can be. Great Journeys New Zealand can organise everything for you, so all you have to do is arrive at the station with your suitcase packed. With various options that include accommodation, scenic train rides, and activities, you’ll find there’s something suitable for a variety of customers and tastes.

AN OPEN-AIR EXPERIENCE

Your short break begins the moment you step aboard the train. Reinvigorate your mind and refresh your body on a great escape by rail. The open-air carriages are your chance to experience all the sights, sounds, and smells of the seaside while travelling along the coast. If you are looking to capture the best of the South Island on camera, this is how to do it. It’s a great spot to make conversations with your fellow travellers.

YOUR WINDOW TO THE COAST

At the heart of all the carriages’ designs are spacious reclined seats, panoramic windows, glass shelves, and skylights. These details bathe the carriages in light and deliver an incredible view of New Zealand’s epic landscapes. They’ve even sacrificed seat numbers to create spaciousness and extra-wide viewing angles. Sink back in your reclined seat and soak up the scenery.

‘TIS THE SEASON

Fun and frivolity abound aboard the trains this December. Addington’s station will be merry and bright, and there will be allaround merriment taking place on board. There are discounted fares for seniors and children, so this one is perfect for introducing the grandkids to the magic of the train ride. Keep an eye out for Santa; he’s often spotted overhead.

FOLLOW THE STORIES OF OUR LAND

Connect with local histories, legends, and myths by tuning into the supplied audio commentary system. Each journey is packed with a seamless stream of stories, narratives, and facts about the places outside your window, which playback as you pass by them. Step off the train with an intimate knowledge of our land, our history, and our culture, and do it at a pace which suits you.

A FRESH FOCUS

The warmer months have meant Great Journeys New Zealand have reinvigorated the food offerings on all three lines, with a fresher food selection and a focus on regional products. A fully licensed bar means you can sit back and enjoy a world-famous New Zealand wine or a local beer. Our tip: make sure you try the braised beef cheek or the Moroccan spiced vegetable salad.