The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a well-maintained path that winds along the cliffs of the Kaikoura Peninsula, offering stunning views of both the azure ocean and golden fields. The walkway also boasts an abundance of flora and fauna, including a colony of seals and rare birds such as sparrows, titis, and albatrosses. Even on dreary days, this walkway provides an invigorating experience for nature lovers.
Best spot to see lots of seals in close distance! Highly recommended family activity in Kaikoura.
Vincent Wong — Google review
The hike is just incredible. Can see Seals from really close distance. The full hike can take up to several hours. A short return hike is possible from the car park
Alex Sar — Google review
Just walk further close to the end of the ground, trail long the cliffs. Eventually, we arrived at the seal colony. 🦭 most were basking in the sun fast asleep. We managed to catch some who have had enough UV rays and headed to the sea to cool off.
Jansen Chua — Google review
Nice short walk and so many seals! All taking naps in the sun or splashing around in the water. Definitely worth a stop in Kaikoura, we had such a great time. Make sure not to get too close to the seals as they are wild, but they seemed relatively used to humans being around and carried on napping as people were taking photos.
Georgina Bennett — Google review
Went for walk along coast and was amazed at how many seals there were lots of young ones as well all sunbathing on a beautiful day
Bob Gibbons — Google review
Really lovely spot to see seals. Down the road there's another place where you can see the seals and mountains in the background. Just make sure to not go too close to the seals.
Daniella — Google review
If you don't mind the walk, there is hundreds of seals to see along the coastline. They just lie there basking in the sun on the rocks, and they're not bothered by people walking by so you end up pretty close to them. Definitely a highlight of visiting kaikoura.
Albany Bradley — Google review
Watch out your step! There are a lot of seals living here, you might bump into one of them on the way to colony.
Don’t disturb them for respect!
There are some car park at the entrance, just walk around 15-20mins , can get to the colony.
Juanita Huang — Google review
What a beautiful experience to walk past so many beautiful seals just lazing away the day & doing their own thing. You can walk from the carpark on the beach to see them or take the peninsular walkway for great views & then walk down the cliff to the colony. Please keep behind the roped area as they don't like being disturbed
Diana Waines — Google review
Kaikoura
SEALS WALKING ROUTE :
Breathtaking route that takes you through hundreds of seals!
Amazing experience, gives National Geographic vibes.
Follow the route and be prepared & prepared for some scary seals on the way.
Definitely worth a visit!! 🦭
Jonathan Geva — Google review
Great seal colony along the coast. The track is rocky, but flat. A great opportunity to see seal close up with them sunbathing on every rock and even sometimes on the path itself! We really enjoyed viewing these beautiful creatures.
Jade Anastasia Cocurullo — Google review
A place great for fur seal sightings.
Julia — Google review
A great place to see seals for free! Busy in weekends and sunny days, but a little quieter in week days.
Haldoor Honey — Google review
The most popular walk to see seals in their natural environment at Kaikoura, is the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway.
As you do the loop and walk from the beach and then on top of the cliff. Keep a lookout to sea. Dolphins, whales and occasionally even orcas, pass the Kaikoura peninsula walkway and Kean Point.
Yes, I have seen dolphins leaping out of the water in a pod.
W R Edwards — Google review
Very interesting, we saw lots of seals and the walk was quite nice but it was very windy. There also were lots of dead seals and seal bones everywhere.
Kalle Schinger — Google review
Great place to go for a walk with some great views and the chance of seeing seals and other wildlife! Keep an eye on the tide! I'd recommend walking the beach section first if the tide is out to avoid getting caught out.
Kieran Whiteman — Google review
Superb seal colony that stretches around the coast. There is an abundance of seals in the vast area. At some parts, you can watch them play in the pools or laze in the sun from afar. There are two places you can get very close to them, but be mindful mothers are very protective of their babies that wander. You need decent shoes to do this vast area. It also can get a little windy in places. Besides the abundance of seals and birds it is a beautiful walk along this coast.
D Sundance — Google review
There are so many seals! 🦭 so adorable 🥰 however, we recommend stay at least 10M from the seals. Yes there is sign mention about that but we didn’t realise that when we enter🥲 however, there are some dead seals at this colony, if you bring children together, better watch out for that💕
xuan yui lim — Google review
Spent hours watching the seals and their pups playing on this gorgeous bit of coast. You can be quite close to them at certain parts. The coastal walk is stunning . Very unique rock formations.
Michelle Ross — Google review
A fantastic free show given by Mother Nature.
NZ fur seals are actually sea lions and the colony is predominantly bachelors aged between 1 and 4. However there is a small nursery with mums and pups.
Just sit, quietly by the sea and the seals will come happily past you.
Access is rough, wear decent shoes. Keep an eye on the tide.
Ian Mantel — Google review
Great views and an abundance of sea life
Discover a mesmerizing world of seals at our enchanting colony. Witness the playful antics and graceful movements of these captivating marine creatures in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in their fascinating social dynamics and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views. An unforgettable experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike!
What a beautiful place and an amazing and friendly host. Lavender oil is at an excellent price, especially when you know what you are getting. The owner was really friendly and happy to answer any questions. Had a wonder through the gardens and although the flowers had already been harvested they were still very beautiful and serene. There is also a super cute and friendly lab on site that followed me to the circle of time. What a gem if in the area stop and smell the flowers or at least have a coffee or tea.
Tanja Dunne — Google review
Place is really cool looking from the outside, and had a good set up inside. Products smelt nice of lavender. Have brought some stuff but my skin is super sensitive so it reacted. Did give to someone who did use it without any reactions. I think the downside was I didn’t see any signs at the gate or inside for the price of the lavender gardens and as I had paid for about five or six different things (and didn’t add up the price as I was going around which I’m sure most people don’t count up the price of everything walking around) and I thought I’d go into the gardens. I got charged for the gardens without knowing how much it was going to be and there wasn’t much to see. I didn’t even know I’d been charged for the gardens as I had brought a few things and thought it was the total price for what I brought not including the gardens. A lot was fenced off and looked like maintenance was happening. It was a nice walk around but there was nothing really to see apart from bushes. Would’ve been nice to know beforehand and would’ve been nice to know a price (there might be a sign now but wasn’t when I was there). $10 for two people was quite expensive. I’ve been to other lavender farms and they have said if there was no lavender and haven’t charged and they’ve been in a better state. The chickens were cool though although there was one chicken that was getting bullied.
Kaleigh E. — Google review
5$ per entry per head. Nice little lavender cultivation. But not a massive one. There is a shop where u can shop their products, and a cafe too for some refreshments. An allocated tea room is there to have a sit down and enjoy ur refreshments. But, that room has to be occupied with good facilities. Away from the lavenders, there is another garden too which u can go around and click some photos too.
nirosh gamage — Google review
Had a nice experience here. It was busy around 2pm and the staff were very friendly and patient with all us tourists. $5 entry and $5 ice cream which was reasonable. The staff let us know that the big lavender field wasn’t currently in bloom, but there was still plenty of lavender to admire and take photos. There was no vegan ice cream available the day we went which was a shame because someone in our group was vegan, but the rest of us had the lavender and honey ice cream which was very yummy. It’s not far from Kaikoura, so I would recommend coming here to enjoy nature and take some pretty pictures.
Alice Nixon — Google review
We had a wonderful time visiting the Kaikoura Lavendar Farm, compared to other Lavender farms the cost of entry is really very reasonable. The garden was lovely and well cared for, my kids had loads of fun exploring the lavenders and the circle of thyme. The shop has a wide variety of essential oils, scented soaps and scarves knitted by the owners definitely worth checking out.
We had a fantastic chat with the friendly owners as well with regards challenges faced by the farm with regards the flood and covid. Would definitely look to visit again in the future should we be in Kaikoura
SChan — Google review
Beautiful spot for a side visit - 5 minutes outside Kaikoura. Owner is really friendly, and we didn’t find the (inevitable, and required) requirements re vaccine pass and sanitiser a problem. The gardens are small - you won’t spend hours wandering - but really picturesque, with the sea in the distance and a tonne of bees in the fields of lavender; the smell of which permeates the place. The sheep (which have lots of personality and will eat grass from your hand) and chickens were a bonus. Being able to walk our dog round on a lead was a bonus. Very cheap for what it was - and we didn’t spend time in the shop or cafe.
Peter Brunt — Google review
Cute spot for a quick visit. Best parts were the cute dog, nice garden to stroll through, and ambiance for a tea/coffee. 15-30 mins to see it. Lavender is not always in full bloom, we visited after harvest but still pretty
Sam Lee — Google review
Tuesday 19th September 2023
Very run down, bit of a gruff unpleasant welcome, “do you want anything”?
Mmmm just thought we’d pop in for a wee look and a nibble of lavender infused food.
Cafe not open, and tbh I wouldn’t want to after seeing the place. :( disappointing
Angharad McCormack — Google review
Had a wonderful time at this Lavendar Farm! Lovely owner. A shop with beautiful products, and extraordinary ice cream (try the Honey Lavendar combo if you like it sweet, or Lavendar Earl Gray if you like the tea). Great spot for relaxing. Even had our own little tour guide come meet us at the gate, sniffing us around the garden!
Jennifer Caust — Google review
Lovely place for a wander about the lavender beds. There are a few lovely spots to relax and rejuvenate
Karl Gercens — Google review
$5 entrance fee. $2 if you are over 65 yrs old. The lavender is still young. Listen to the honey buzzing and smell the lavender
Triple K — Google review
We went here on March 2020. I always love lavender and when I saw there was one in Kaikoura, I knew we had to visit. It turned out to be a great experience. Even though we didn't visit the garden because the staff told us there were no lavender bloom at that time but we still had a lovely time in the shop. Bought a huge bottle of lavender soap ( I didn't think too much about our luggage by then 😅 ) and essential oils. There were some beautiful lavender plants in front of the shop. The staff ( or owner I didn't know ) was very nice and friendly.
Linna — Google review
Amazing place! All the lavender is flowering at the moment and it looks amazing. The ice cream is very tasty and they sell coffee and lemonade as well. Very nice place to chill out for a bit and calm down.
Nick — Google review
I booked for breakfast weeks ago for 10am Sunday morning 24 December and at the owner's request sent an email to confirm. I arrived a little after 10am having got a bit lost on the country roads. On arrival Maira, the owner was making Gelato and when I said who I was and that I had booked for breakfast she looked aghast, obviously having forgot. There was no apology.
She said it would take half an hour as she had to cook bread and in the meantime kept making the gelato. I ordered a coffee and went outside and fortunately had taken a book to read. I really wanted to leave but decided to stay and give her the benefit of the doubt that it would be worth it.
The outside table I sat at was grubby as were the floors in the shop and outside it was obvious it was all rather run down. Weeds everywhere, though some nice lavender bushes.
The breakfast was very very ordinary to say the least! Commercial orange juice which always tastes awful and the muesli, though apparently homemade not toasted, was very dry and unpalatable. I have my doubts as to it being homemade?
The dining room area was tatty and again the floors covered in dirt and grasses and lots of cobwebs. All very slap dash. I suspect the owner is trying to run the place on her own, though there was a girl there making the coffee.
The final insult was a charge of $35!!!!!! for THE MOST ORDINARY BREAKFAST I have ever had out. It says on the website that breakfast is $25, so either they have increased their price and not told visitors, or the girl I paid charged the incorrect amount. Suffice to say I will not be returning. I did not walk about the gardens because I am a bit immobile and find it challenging. Seeing all the weeds and general unkemptness of the place, I suspect they may not be up to scratch either.
Don't bother visiting, it is a waste of time. They are thoroughly disorganised and the place as I said is rather run down. There are better places to go with much better food to spend your money on. I thought it was a complete rip off and $35 for the worst breakfast ever - Never again.
3 January 2024
I did not bother reading the Owner's tirade in response to my review as I had read one she had written recently to another customer who did not find the experienced very satisfactory.
A business owner should take responsibility for their shortcomings and not blame the customer for Covid or the shortage of staff. That is the Owner's problem and does not make for personable interactions with visitors.
I did tell the Owner my name but she turned her back and got back to making her Gelato and did not listen and could not hear me because of the noise of the machine.
The Owner can keep the $10 her staff member overcharged me, after all, it may help towards improving the property?
Incidentally, on the website the pictures for breakfast show a lovely table with fresh fruit, a large bowl of what looks like fairly substantial muesli and what look like pastries and brioche. That was my expectation and of course what I got was far from it.
Putting up pictures that don't relate to what is offered is surely 'false advertising'.
We visited on the last day of the Earthquake exhibition, and we're so glad that we got to see it. Very well done and showed the sheer volume of work that had to be done. The other exhibits were good. My partner especially enjoyed the cell. Well worth a look.
Cindy Crowther — Google review
Lovely exhibit. Wheel chair friendly. Informative
Step into a captivating journey through time at our museum. Immerse yourself in rich history, diverse cultures, and remarkable artifacts. Engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and knowledgeable guides bring stories to life. Explore, learn, and be inspired by the wonders of human achievement. A must-visit destination for curious minds and lovers of culture.
James Hall — Google review
Small collection of local history. $12 per adult. Earthquake presentation was the highlight with detailed info on where and how it played out across the area, causing so much damage. Nice building. Staff are friendly and helpful. Library is upstairs and lift available.
diana roberts — Google review
Amazing! cute local history of Kaikoura. The display on the 2016 Earthquake was comprehensive and touching, while the other displays were also in depth and very interesting to see. The staff were friendly and keen for a chat. They also have a reading area and archive for doing research which i found very cool. We came back the next morning to complete the puzzle (which was missing 3 pieces as we found out) because we’d had such a lovely experience. Thanks!!
lydia tucker — Google review
Definitely a neat little museum that you shouldn't miss.
The fare isn't all that high and there's much on display with books to browse through regarding local history etc.
The front desk was a lovely lady that showed enthusiasm of the museum's history and events that took place of which had great impact on the town and surrounding areas.
R & B — Google review
What a Cool place, Lots of interesting things I loved it .Take your Time but you get all day ticket So you can go back through the day .
Brought back memories of my younger days ..The staff are lovely happy to have a chat .
The earthquake room is So informative ,knowing what really happened that day.
This town of yesteryear is Amazing as is it's History
A must see Enjoy
michele keesing — Google review
It is not free as in CHC. They charge 12$ per adult, 10$ per student ID and like wise.. as it is a self funded museum. So if u expect it is free, u need not to visit. It is inside Kaikoura district council. On the left hand side it is the museum which recalls the earth quake. On the right hand side, it is the general museum. The museum spreads along the ground floor only. It would not take more than 30-40mins to finish it all. The place it kept nice and tidy. You have a visitos' toilet too. My honest opinion is , I am doubtful whether it worth the price u pay.
nirosh gamage — Google review
Well laid out and informative musuem for all ages. ESPECIALLY, the earthquake exhibition
sallyre74 — Google review
Great experience. Lots of things from my childhood here. Great depiction of kaikoura earthquakes.
Bronwyn Yarrall — Google review
We arrived at 10am on a weekday as soon as the museum opened and we had the place to ourselves for about 30 minutes. It's well worth a visit, small but interesting. Information is provided about a few different topics concerning the local area (immigration, whaling, dairy industry, sea creatures etc.). We spent about an hour there in total, but the entry fee includes an all day ticket so you can come and go if you wish to.
It is located on the ground floor of the building below the library. There is a pay and display carpark ($1 per hour) directly across the road.
G S — Google review
A small but packed with information and displays. Great exhibits and collection of local and NZ history. Interesting quake exhibit and some fun and quirky items as well. This spot is worth a visit!
c “cfl” lane — Google review
Firstly beautiful building. Lovely place to wander around. I really appreciate learning more about the town when the earth quacks happened and how everyone came together. What a beautiful community.
Megan Anderton — Google review
Kaikoura had a good museum pre-earthquake. As good exhibits and curation as you would find in any museum, anywhere. Now they've got one with REAL heart, and it's worth a trip for the pop-up exhibition on the earthquake and its effects, physical, social, and psychological, on this iconic seaside community.
Kaikoura has always been on the edge, and a little bit isolated. The mountains surrounding it on the land side, and the sea bashing up on the front porch, have made sure of that. And that's how the locals like it. They love their place, its wild weather, its wild whaling and fishing history, its small community, its being on the edge of things. This is reflected in the community feel of the museum, and the warmth of the whole place. The exhibits are of very high quality, and give you a real insight into the history of the town and area.
The quake exhibit is moving and very personal. Highly recommended.
Andrew Johnson (AJ) — Google review
So much to see. A real trip down memory lane in some displays. The earthquake display and the details of it are very interesting.
Wendy — Google review
Small and very informative place. It made you feel about how the Kaikoura community and it's surrounding residents were able to rise up and get back to normal and promote it to be one of the most nature friendly tourist spot of the south island
Wonderful place to freedom camp in a motorhome or campervan. 5.30pm until 8.30am only 10 parks available each night. Toilets available at the end of the carpark.
Leeanne Pollard — Google review
They open at 10 am which was bit of an inconvenient to us. We needed some quick information but the i-site was closed. There is lot of parking available. You can book tickets for whale watching at the beach i-site (According to the advertisement outside).
Ravi Lal — Google review
My husband and I had four nights in Kaikoura.The drive up from Christchurch was very enjoyable with a few short stops for roadworks. We were amazed at all the engineering that had gone into replacing road, rail and enormous areas of mountainside that have been retained with wire mesh to stop future falls by the earthquake of three years ago. The weather was fine and we visited most areas of interest including a rugby game on Saturday afternoon.
Toni Porter — Google review
Really helpful people. Thank God to them, if they weren't there I wouldn't have discover a 4x4 track
Leon J — Google review
Good information and helpful staff... and still amazing views right outside the doors
Michael Ekins — Google review
Lots of information and helpful staff. Def worth checking out before you check out some of Kaikoura.
Grant Riddell (K1W1) — Google review
Many thanks for i-SITE. A Chinese lady named Ivy has offered so many information and tips for us. She is amazing and helpful. Her help makes our trip more colorful and easier. We will remember this lovely town in our New Zealand travelling.
Janet Hu — Google review
Stunning view of Creek meeting the ocean nice little shelter to have your lunch
PAUL RICHARDS (LEEOTA) — Google review
Great great place. Awesome stuff to buy and the staff is awesome. She was so helpful abd informative. We spend good money buying lots of stuff
Patrick JN — Google review
Friendly and helpful. Out back door is a fab place for ocean and mountain photos.
The Point Bed & Breakfast is a tranquil accommodation situated in close proximity to the popular tourist spots in Kaikoura. It offers breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean, along with complimentary chocolates. The RV parking area is flat and surrounded by grazing sheep, while the cows from a steep hill behind often come down for a visit. One of its main attractions is the entertaining sheep shearing demonstration that provides informative insights accompanied by humor.
We were so pleased to stay at The Point bed and breakfast. You cannot get a more spectacular view of Kaikoura. The accommodations are comfortable and we slept well. Our favorite part of staying here was meeting the lovely family that own the b&b. Thank you Pete & family!
Bill Pritchard — Google review
We stayed a night at the campgrounds. Very nice view of the sea. Not too far from the seal colony. A convenient self contained camping spot close to Kaikoura at a low cost. Fresh water and rubbish area on site. No dump Station.
Yang Kheem Seah — Google review
We only did three sheep shearing show. Was great to see up close. Good interaction with the sheep, the dogs and the shearer.
Andrew Brown — Google review
The Point is a fantastic location. It's a rural farm on the coastline with fantastic views of mountains and coastline. Peter is a wonderful host and the location also offers sheep shearing shows. Only 5mins to the seal colony, we were in a wonderful location. Recommend.
Lisa Beahan — Google review
This was one of our highlights on our Australia then New Zealand trip. We had so many people ask how we ended up with our RV in a field with a million dollar view of the ocean. So close to everything you need to see in kaikoura. The parking place for RV is flat and you're surrounded by grazing sheep. The cows come down from a very steep hill behind you to say hello. Seeing them come down that hill was a thrill. To top it all off is a great sheep shearing demonstration filled with lots of facts and some great humor. We would definitely book this again. Book through Campable app. Thanks Peter.
Mike M — Google review
Sheep Shearing Show was great fun and so informative!
Bill Smith was amazing-did a whole sheep shearing show just for me! Very informative about the sheep and wool. Was great to meet Beau-the sweetest huntaway dog. A must do if you're in Kaikoura!
40tine filter — Google review
Outstanding hosts, equalled with outstanding views and location.
Shelley is a real asset to Fyffe House, we got a wonderful informative talk before walking around the house that gave us a much deeper appreciation for what we were seeing. It was lovely to be able to visit as last time we were in Kaikoura the house was under repair, seeing the sympathetic restoration was a real treat.
Louise Marriott-Hanson — Google review
I have spent months here renovating Fyffe House Whaling Station after it was damaged by the 2016 earthquake. I can say it's my favorite spot in New Zealand. Beautiful views of the sea and snow-capped mountains.
It's a very interesting museum with a lot of historical information and value.
The staff are very friendly and informative.
MC Jackson Plastering — Google review
This is a wonderful historical building well preserved and the stories given by Ann bring to life the history of whaling and Robert Fyffe who had this built on whale vertebrae. A must visit to hear the story of early life and whaling in Kaikoura.
Will Parsons — Google review
Its history is more interesting than the physical building. It was built by a Scottish whaler who used whale vertebrae as its foundation.
Allan Connor — Google review
Such a wee gem! I have driven past to the seafood caravan many times, and wish I had popped in earlier!
I spent about an hour going through from the foundations made of whale vertebrae, the beautiful wildflower garden, to the original Coopers Cottage.
There was a fantastic overview of the history of local Maori from Maui to just pre-European times; alongside the Fyfe cousins and additional European families who have occupied the site.
The grounds are worth a little look around - take time to see the Pou, the “dinghy”, original foundations from the Pier Hotel and chat to the knowledgeable friendly staff.
Jeannie Milne — Google review
Beautiful place
The view of the mountain in the morning is an absolute stunner !
The light there is perfect.
?Emma — Google review
Quirky old residence, detailing hard life of early white man in area. They had it hard then, indeed. Lots of house of amazingly original. Right near a seal watching spot so worth a visit.
Martin Connor — Google review
The jaggered rock formations in this area and the view of the mountains across the water were very spectacular and easily accessible parking.
There was a rolling wispy sea mist above the water which further enhanced the serenity and mystique to bring a kind of magical feeling to the place.
Ben Drury — Google review
Loved it. So different and unique. The lady running the place was fantastic.
Tim Ross — Google review
What an unexpected gem! Brought my elderly friend to visit. So interesting, and well laid out so you can read as much or as little as you like. Staff were super helpful and the gift shop has some nice and unusual finds. Well worth popping in.
Sarah Clarke — Google review
This is one of the hidden gems of New Zealand. I must warn that it is not a location for somebody who is looking for a cookie cutter experience. This is a genuine whale hunter house. Though the hunting has stopped in 1964, the house still feels as if the owners has never left it. You will learn an abundance of fascinating stories, such as the foundation being made of actual whale bones, which you can see and touch! As if the house itself wasn’t a great reason to visit it, the lady who runs the place has THE best souvenir shop in the region. Everything is ocean themed, great quality and unbeatable price. We sometimes stop at Kaikoura just to get souvenirs from that shop.
Simona Galdikaite — Google review
It was an amazing piece of history. It was just a look back at the wee towns past and where it came from. Make time to go and have a look around at the Fyffe House.
The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a scenic path that runs along the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean and clifftops. Visitors have the opportunity to witness various marine animals such as seabirds, seals, and whales. The walkway can be accessed by taking a right from the carpark, descending down stairs to reach the Seal Colony area. Recognition of being on track is when one reaches the white stone path.
A great free activity to see a decent length of the coast and some seals up close. We walked the beach / low track first and then back along the top because we started quite late in the afternoon and this was the best option for us. It's a leisurely walk with stairs. A good walk with great views totally worth it.
Kristy Wei — Google review
Generally a easy hike with good scenic views in good weather conditions, a round trip would take no more then 3hrs.
Was able to sight seals sunbathing along the coast.
However it does get extremely muddy and slippery at certain sections after rain, especially at sections where the trail takes you across cow pastures.
Wesley Soh — Google review
Gorgeous! Clear blue sea color even under this cloudy day. Wild animals all around, fur seals sometimes pop up in the bush! Definitely worth to come and have a visit. Walk along the seashore and climb up the hill to enjoy the whole picturesque view.
Angelia Du — Google review
Take a right at the carpark, down the stairs and around the coastline to see the Seal Colony. Once you hit the white stone path, then you know you are on the right track. Beautiful spot for photos, the rocks look out of this world and the colours are amazing. There is also the lookout track, which is a lot longer
William Lin — Google review
One of the more popular attractions in Kaikoura and one should cater about 2hrs to complete the tracks. The view is even better on top, however the path was quite steep and the tracks were muddy after the rain. Ample free parking with a toilet at the start of the track. Great driving view on the way to the walkway.
We got to see seals too and be mindful that they may venture inwards away from the beach, as we saw one at the walkway like in the photo.
ZY — Google review
The Kaikoura Peninsula is truly stunning. Its breathtaking landscapes, with majestic mountains meeting the deep blue ocean, create a picture-perfect setting. The rich marine life and the opportunity for seal watching makes it even more special. Parking is easy.
Nikita — Google review
This is a fabulous walk, provided you skip most of it.
Much of the full circuit is a concrete footpath, or boardwalk, alongside the road, with nothing to see apart from the ocean (which is lovely, but doesn’t change until the very end of the road).
The best way to do this is drive to the very end of the road, park in the car park, walk along the rocks below the cliff until Whalers Bay, then follow the path and steps up to the headland and access the proper walk all the way back to the car park.
This will take you a couple of hours at most, and bring you right up close to the seals, and then give you the wonderful views all the way back. (Or vice versa, cliff then reef is fine).
Stop off at the crayfish van on the way there or back for lunch, and you’ve done the best of Kaikōura without the 2 hour slog along the road.
Stephen Spencer — Google review
Well managed place but it would be nice if there was some shelter for resting. Tracks are marked well and finding a car can be challenging. This is a popular spot to park your vehicle and for your hike. This snow one free activity you can do in Kaikoura.
Ravi Lal — Google review
This is arguably the best walk we’ve done in New Zealand. Varied landscape: from low down near water level, to high up on the cliffs. Well-maintained pathways, both man-made and organic. Viewing platforms and information boards.
Toilets at beginning and end. About an hour and a half to two hours depending on how many stops. A further thirty minutes back to Kaikoura. Or longer if you stop for sustenance at the road-side BBQ and drinks stall.
Hamish & Vivienne Pringle — Google review
Loved this walkway. Amazing views from the top of the cliffs & you can watch the seals below or walk back on the bottom & see them up close & personal! There's a small yellow lighthouse at the start of the walk at the top of the hill & after that, theres rural views & a grassy track on the cliff top with seats placed strategically for the views.
Diana Waines — Google review
📍 Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
You can Google the location here for parking. In fact, you can see many seals here, and on a clear day, you can even glimpse distant snow-capped mountains. Capture stunning shots as you like!
彭笙瑞 — Google review
Crazy beautiful walk and the seals were awesome 🤩
Wear sensible shoes 👞 cause of rocks on the path.
Tenna Sigvardt — Google review
One of the best walkways in New Zealand, if not the world! Seeing seals up close and in their natural habitat was spectacular. The walk up to the top gives unreal views all around. Take your time here, lots of exploring to do and a decent sized car park with washrooms. I'd say 2-3 hours is good. The trail is a loop if you keep going.
Brittany Gagne — Google review
Not a difficult walk. Amazing views south over the Pacific Ocean and stunning rock formations. Recommend doing the walk towards the end of the day as the sun is setting.
Huntley Fisher — Google review
Some interesting rock formations and patterns to see just a 5 minute walk from the car park.
Plus you should spot a few seals around as well.
Nigel — Google review
A nice trail to see ocean, mountain, and many wildlife like seals, really enjoy all of the amazing scenes here.
Eric Lee — Google review
We saw so many seals, and some were very young. The walk is beautiful and easy.
The Mt Fyffe Carpark area in Canterbury, South Island offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. The trail is continuously uphill with limited flat sections and descents, but the breathtaking views of the Kaikoura plains and peninsula make it worth the effort. The route follows a wide road until reaching the Mount Fyffe Hut which provides an option for overnight stays. Hikers are advised to ensure their knees are strong enough for descending and consider using walking sticks.
Happy new year 🎊🥳🎄 we watched the fireworks in the lookout Kaikoura and after we wanted hiking. We came here 1am. And we started hiking with 3 friends. It was amazing dark but we used phone light we listened musics. And it was really warm. We didn’t cold. After 4 hours we went to top and it was early to see sunrise. We sit and we waited for 1 hour on the top for sunrise. It was very cold on the top. We ate some snacks. We drank coffee. And we saw very beautiful sunrise. It was cloudy but very beautiful view. We love it. We really enjoy a lot. After we started go back and it was 3 hours. Totally we did hiking 8 hours. It was tough but we love it we really enjoyed it 😍🥳🎊🎊🎄🎄 for new year for new hours we started with tough hiking 😂🙈 welcome 2024 😍🥳🎊🎊🎄
gosmami — Google review
So when you reach the car park the track is well signed for the mt fyffe up hill and very fast down hill track 👣 🤔 🙄, it's one of them bike tracks that I think everyone will have an option on grade level, it's definitely not intermediate! I would say advanced as it's a 7 ks vertical 5 % climb, dosen't sound hard but on a hot day your going to need plenty of water ! The top is a stunning veiw of kaikoura and then the fun begins on the down hill side that is a 3 ks very fast run 🏃♂️! So all up yes it's hard and yes it's fun.
wayne rhodes — Google review
Unrelenting climb along rough track for 3-4 hours with views along the way. No water at the hut in January so you need to carry 3 litres minimum (although you can stash some on the way up) 2 hrs down if you jog the less steep and rocky bits
ian chapman — Google review
I did the MTB trail. When you get near the car park go to the left carpark- this is the start of the biking trail. Its rated a 3, intermediate for both up and down. Up is basically a climb up with constant switchbacks going back and forth. Its not a terrible climb as they have you climbing gradually. The KM’s are marked out as you go. You do need to be a good bike climber, while its not technical- its alot of up. It took me, with a few water breaks about 55 minutes to climb. The down is a sweet flow and took less than 10 minutes back down.
Side note, I had some drop me off at the parking lot and then I road a trail back to town. Its clearly marked, its trail some of the way and then dirt road some of it. Just follow the bike signs, its nicely signed. Once you finish the main ride and get back to MT Fyffe parking lot, you need to the ride the dirt road for maybe 5 minutes to get to the first bike trail sign- you will take a right of the dirt road.
T Smith — Google review
It is hard rewarding track.... constantly up (almost no flats) and then constantly down. The breath taking views are worth the effort though.
Make sure your knees are good enough for the descending part.
Perhaps bring a pair of walking sticks
Daniel Mladek — Google review
There are 1003 named mountains in Kaikoura Ranges.
New Zealand’s mountains and the Chilean Andes are the only significant barrier to the moisture-laden westerly winds that circle the Southern Ocean. The Kaikoura ranges only emerged within the last five million years, during the
Pliocene Epoch, so they are relatively geologically young and very dynamic.
For this reason, Mt Fyffe is right in the firing line for wild weather. The summit is at 1602 metres but Seaward Kaikoura's are exposed to wind and and heavy amounts of snow. Be prepared for adverse conditions at any time.
The mountain was covered in mist / fog and proceeded to turn around and go down. The whole ideal, is to see spectacular views on a clear day. You are rewarded with superb views of the Kaikoura plains and peninsula, including views of Banks Peninsula and the North Island.
The 8km steep climb from carpark to summit is a massive 1400 metres!
A 4WD road goes right to the summit; a return journey of about 8 hours. Those wanting a shorter journey could go as far as Mt Fyffe Hut (5 hours return) or the lookout point near a firepond, which is just an hour above the carpark.
The most common approach is from the Hinau picnic area at the end of Postmans Rd, over a locked gate and up the 4WD road.
W R Edwards — Google review
The hike up to the Mt Fyffe lookout is gruelling as it is a relentless uphill slog. Be prepared for a workout and bring plenty of water. Well worth the views though!
The carpark is easily accessible via a gravel road and a toilet is located nearby, along with some picnic benches.
Graeldon — Google review
Very tiring uphill climb. Best views are between the hut and summit, so I personally wouldn't just hike to the hut and back. Start early if planning to go to the summit as a day trip. Would have stayed at the hut though if I had more time, to give my legs a rest, plus the opportunity for stargazing and sunrise. Recommend to go on a clear day to have the best views. Went in mid-May, temp 2-7 degC, minimal frost.
Beautiful, heavenly, out of this world. Words cannot describe the beauty of this place. Magnificent views of the mountains and the sea. Do not miss this beautiful place. Awesome views of sunset with beautiful colours changing in the sky. Loved and privileged to be here.
sanjay pandit — Google review
It’s easy to get here, the views are still amazing even it’s cloudy days.
No need to walk, there are some carparks here.
Juanita Huang — Google review
I sincerely recommend that it is a perfect place to stay and wait for sunlight of the sunset. I like the wind, the light, and the atmosphere once the gorgeous appeared in my vision.
Skynard Yu — Google review
Kaikōura township is located between the sea and the foot of the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, which has more than half a dozen peaks over 2,000 metres.
The Seaward Kaikoura Range rises up almost directly out of the sea in places.
The Kaikoura Ranges are an impressive sight, visible for quite some distance. On a clear day you can see the ranges from the southern coast of the North Island.
W R Edwards — Google review
First time there. Great view would be great on a blue sky day.
Warrick Jones — Google review
It's a beautiful place took look at the oceans and Kaikoura town. Good weather conditions you can see beautiful sunset.
Gilbert Tan — Google review
A cool lookout on a water reservoir on the top of the hill above Kaikoura township. It provides stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura ranges and the Kaikoura coastline to the North and South. It's an easy walk to get to the lookout from the town of Kaikoura or alternatively you can drive right there.
Anthony Cross — Google review
So beautiful and mesmerizing. The view is just out of this world. We got very lucky and had clear skies. It was amazing!
Janine Barthel — Google review
Definitely the best place to visit in town as a tourist or someone who just wants to appreciate God's given gift of nature. I almost cried when I got here.
Tara.Czhatz — Google review
It is an amazing spot to have a break at.
The view is outstanding. There are seats there to sit on.
The car park there fits like 5 cars only. And there aren't any bathrooms there.
The Fairways Luxury Accommodation in Kaikoura is a modern hotel that boasts subtle yet sophisticated lodgings equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi and serene gardens complete with seating areas. The one-bedroom apartments are spacious and well-appointed with an extensive array of kitchen utensils. Guests can enjoy breathtaking sunsets at the nearby pond while watching beautiful fantails flying around. The studio rooms offer pristine, air-conditioned spaces with ample room to relax, while the bathrooms and showers are generously sized for added comfort.
The second time I’ve stayed here and it was excellent again. The one bedroom apartment we stayed in was gorgeous. Everything you needed and plenty of space to spread out. I was impressed with how many utensils they had in the kitchen drawer! Took a walk after dinner to the pond across the road and watched the sunset and fantails.
Zoe Wilson — Google review
Magnificent welcome, availability and kindness. Ideally located, the fairways make you feel at home with an exceptional panorama.
Everything is new and clean, and the value for money is exceptional.
You can book with your eyes closed, you'll be welcomed like a member of their family.
Thank you, thank you and thank you again
thierry calvo — Google review
Studio room was excellent - our room was air conditioned and pristine. Bathroom / shower was spacious!
Jacky Tsao — Google review
We had an apartment unit with a gas fireplace, jacuzzi tub and WD. Very spacious, clean, quiet and comfortable. One of our top 5 in NZ! Highly recommend!
Lynn Johnson — Google review
I could not state how hospitable and generous Deka, property manager , at the Fairway of Kaikoura was.. Studio was clean , functional and great. The parking was right outside the door . Great for bringing in luggage. Parking had been an issue throughout New Zealand , so it was great assigned parking , and a great management team , Thanks to all . Will highly recommend.
Suzanne Steier — Google review
1. Small studio which only fits the bed.
2. Can't open cupboard which contains the fridge fully as it hits the bed, fridge also had broken tray arm.
3. No view of any of the amazing surroundings.
4. Paper thin walls, truly you can here the quietest conversation in the next studio.
5. I personally will not come back, 4 star not on your life!
Paul Haigh — Google review
Excellent rooms, clean, spacious and friendly owners.
Had a fantastic time in a beautiful site. Would love to come back for longer.
Joe Morrice — Google review
One of the best accommodations that I have stayed at kaikoura. The studio that we stayed in was spacious, clean, comfy, well equipped and maintained. The staff at the counter was also very helpful and friendly! A greta place to stay!
Hongyao Zhuang — Google review
Fairways is lovely - the rooms are clean, modern and spacious and within a 5 min drive of town centre/activities. The staff are awesome, really nice hosts with great recommendations.
Bhavini Panchmatia — Google review
My wife and I are regular guests and always enjoy our stay. Well presented clean apartments
Paul Anderson — Google review
This was a nice place to stay. The room (we had a studio, all that was available) was small, but very clean, updated and well furnished. There was a small fridge and coffee maker, with supplies for coffee, tea, and chocolate. The grounds right ouside (part of a development?) were very well kept.
Fabiola Byrne — Google review
Such a shame luxury accommodation in New Zealand is way behind anywhere else. They still continue to put polyester bedding in their rooms. It is horrid to sleep under and doesn't rot so will remain polluting our earth for generation after generation. Sometimes you get lucky and get cotton sheets - even the sheets in this place had polyester in them. Disappointed.
The website doesn't work to contact them hence the review on here. Just get an ad to book three night stay.
Caroline O'Reilly — Google review
Spent 2 nights here with my family in a 2 bedroom apartment.
The accommodation was lovely and well appointed.
The only issue we had was that it was a little hot in the main bedroom and living room. There was a split system A/C in the kids room (which was comfortable) and one in the main living room but none in the master bedroom. With the high, floor to ceiling, west windows in the living room, the A/C was unable to cool the living room or the main bedroom. That said, I think the weather was particularly warm for this area during our stay.
The staff were helpful.