Kaikōura Holidays

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Your Kaikoura Holiday

Its coastal scenery, wildlife and spectacular views are only some of the reasons to book a holiday package to Kaikoura. No matter your reason for coming to this mountainous city, you're sure to have a fabulous time. Fill your itinerary with tours of Kaikoura Beach, Peninsula Walkway and Point Kean Seal Colony, some of the top attractions you shouldn't miss during your trip to Kaikoura. A few clicks is all it takes to put together your ideal Kaikoura holiday on Expedia.

Where to stay in Kaikōura

Find the best Kaikōura areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kaikōura
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Kaikoura Flat

2 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While visiting Kaikoura Flat, you might make a stop by sights like Mount Fyffe and Kaikoura Beach.

Find hotels in Kaikoura Flat

Things to do in and around Kaikōura

Kaikōura, nestled in Canterbury, New Zealand, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as rejuvenating body treatments, skiing, and hiking along scenic trails. Essential experiences include day tours, exploring the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, and embarking on a kayak tour. Don't miss the chance to join Kaikōura Boat Tours for memorable sightseeing adventures amid breathtaking landscapes.

Shopping

In Kaikōura, explore local shops along the main street for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, the nearest larger shopping centre is Westende Shopping Centre in Blenheim, offering a variety of stores including fashion and homeware.

Recreation

Kaikōura Golf Club, located 3.2km from Kaikōura, offers a tranquil outdoor atmosphere perfect for relaxation and recreation. Enjoy stunning coastal views while playing a round of golf amidst beautifully maintained greens, surrounded by the natural beauty of the region that promotes wellness and serenity.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park, where family-friendly activities abound. Wander the scenic Peninsula Walkway, perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Don’t miss Ohau Falls, located 20.9km from Kaikōura, offering stunning views and adventurous trails.

Nightlife

Kaikōura offers a charming nightlife with a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy local wines at The Whaler, or head to the Kaikōura Club for a friendly community vibe. For live music, check out the local pubs where you can mingle with both locals and fellow travellers.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Kaikōura

Kaikōura, situated on the picturesque eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the majestic Kaikōura Mountains, embark on thrilling whale watching excursions, and delve into local history at the Kaikōura Museum. With its stunning beaches and the Seaward Kaikōura Range, this charming destination offers a perfect blend of nature and adventure for all types of travellers.

  • Kaikōura Beach: just 1.6km from the town centre, Kaikōura Beach offers a picturesque setting with stunning ocean views and a relaxed vibe. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the sandy shore, admire the dramatic cliffs, or indulge in a picnic while listening to the soothing sound of waves.
  • Mount Fyffe: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Mount Fyffe provides a rewarding hiking experience with breathtaking scenery. The trail offers various levels of difficulty and culminates in panoramic views of the Kaikōura coastline and surrounding mountains, making it an adventurous day out.
  • Kaikōura District Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Kaikōura at the District Museum. This treasure trove of local history showcases artifacts, stories, and exhibits that highlight the region’s heritage, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs.

Best time to go to Kaikōura

The best time to visit Kaikoura can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kaikoura falls in January, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kaikoura falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
February63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
March60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
June48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
July46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
September50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Kaikōura

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically May to June and August) for more affordable package holidays to Kaikōura.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Kaikoura Beach Holiday

Escape the stresses of daily life and let your mind, body and soul completely relax on your Kaikoura holiday. Few things are more invigorating than the smell of salty sea air and the soothing sound of waves crashing onto the shore. Organise your trip to Kaikoura the quick and easy way by choosing one of our Kaikoura holiday packages. Many visitors choose to base themselves near Kaikoura Beach, a must-see just 1 mile from the downtown area.

Things You Should Know About Kaikoura

  • Check into one of our Kaikoura beach hotels and experience the best this destination has to offer. Wander along the shore and be inspired by the stunning sunrises just steps from your doorstep.
  • Our private holiday homes, including Protea House and Middle Creek House, are a hit with visitors of all sorts. Consider the amenities and get set for your holiday in Kaikoura!
  • Kaikoura is home to around 690 people and offers lots to keep everyone busy. Ready to start planning some fun activities? Have a look at our Kaikoura things to do page.
  • Don't head home without checking out Kaikoura Beach, Peninsula Walkway and Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park. With the cash you save through our Kaikoura holiday deals, you can see more top attractions like these.

Kaikoura Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
New Zealand dollars
Population
690
Max Temp Winter
10ºC
Max Temp Summer
18ºC
Top Sights
Kaikoura Museum, Kaikoura District Museum and Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park

Top hotels in Kaikōura

Sudima Kaikoura

Sudima Kaikoura

5 out of 5
Esplanade, 114, Kaikoura, Canterbury
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £76 per night from 3 Aug to 4 Aug
£76
3 Aug - 4 Aug
includes taxes & fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (399 reviews)
"An incredible hotel, excellent staff, the rooms are fantastic. The food in the dining room was delicious. I don’t think I can fault this venue. We will be back."

Reviewed on 27 Jul 2025

Sudima Kaikoura
Alpine-pacific Holiday Park

Alpine-pacific Holiday Park

3 out of 5
69 Beach Road, Kaikoura
8.4/10 Very Good! (409 reviews)
"Beautiful view. Great front desk service. Clean tidy and great facilities Will stay again"

Reviewed on 20 Jul 2025

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Alpine-pacific Holiday Park
Kaikoura Quality Suites

Kaikoura Quality Suites

3.5 out of 5
154 Beach Road, Kaikoura
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
9/10 Wonderful! (315 reviews)
"Very enjoyable stay. Would definitely stay again."

Reviewed on 5 Jul 2025

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Kaikoura Quality Suites
See all 178 properties in Kaikōura
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
All Inclusive Holidays
All Inclusive Holidays
Beach Holidays
Beach Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays

Popular places to visit

Kaikoura Museum

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Kaikoura Museum during your travels in Kaikōura. Wander the seaside or discover the area's mountain views.

Kaikoura Museum

What to do in Kaikōura

Whale watching in Winter

Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

£80
per adult
78% of travellers recommend
Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight

Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight (Extended)

£103
per adult
Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight (Extended)
Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

£89
per adult
Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip
See all activities in Kaikōura

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my Kaikoura holiday with Expedia?
Choose Expedia to arrange your next big break easily and all in one place. Our insider tip for bagging a great deal on a Kaikoura retreat? Bundle your hotel, flights and/or hire car into a package holiday. Then throw in a few awesome tours and activities. Many bookings also come with flexible cancellation policies, so there's no need to stress if you have to change your travel plans. Round-the-clock assistance with making changes to your trip is available via our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Kaikoura?
If you're eager to experience the excitement of Kaikoura in the peak season, plan your adventure for January, September and October. February, March and November are generally the quietest months of the year. Organise your visit to Kaikoura based on what type of holiday you want. June is the coolest month, when average daytime temperatures are 8ºC. In January, the warmest period, you'll experience averages of 17ºC during the day.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Kaikoura?
Many travellers choose to stay at Mediterranean Motel Kaikoura in Kaikoura Peninsula. If it's your first visit to Kaikoura, you'll get a warm welcome here.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Kaikoura?
Creating your own Kaikoura holiday with Expedia is an easy way to save. We have more than 400 airlines and 321,000 hotels all over the world. With such an amazing range to select from, you'll have no issues putting together your dream escape. Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you bundle your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my Kaikoura holiday?
There are plenty of things to see and do while on a holiday in Kaikoura. Kaikoura Beach, Mount Fyffe, Peninsula Walkway and Kaikoura Visitor Centre are just some of this city's best attractions.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Kaikoura?
Kaikoura has a number of popular places to discover, such as Kaikoura Beach. Book accommodation close by and make sightseeing stress-free.
Do I need a visa for my Kaikoura holiday?
Look up the most up-to-date information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're visiting for leisure, business or study will determine if you require a visa for Kaikoura. Make yourself familiar with the application process, including the required documentation, turnaround times and fees. Submit your application well in advance to allow enough time for processing. Some visas may take weeks or even months to go through, depending on the country and time of year.
What should I wear on my Kaikoura holiday?
Although everyone's fashion style differs, it can be useful to have some guidelines for what type of clothes to wear during your holiday in Kaikoura. Consider browsing social media before you head off so you can blend in like a local. Be sure to check the weather forecast so you can pack appropriately. The warmest month in Kaikoura is January, with average daytime temperatures of 17ºC. If you're visiting during the coolest month of June, the mercury averages 8ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Kaikoura holiday include?
It all comes down to what type of getaway you have in mind. Kaikoura travel deals can include car hires, flights and hotels. You can mix and match to create the bundle that works for you! You can also add on activities and experiences after you've booked to pick up even bigger discounts. Private holiday homes and apartments are a couple of the most highly sought-after property types in Kaikoura. Whatever your preference or size of your group, you can count on Expedia for the flexibility and freedom to tailor your escape.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Kaikoura holidays?
Your bank balance shouldn't stop you from going on holiday, so Expedia has worked out a solution to help. Now that we've formed a partnership with online lender Klarna, it's easier than ever to book a terrific getaway without making a dent in your savings. Klarna offers flexible payment options during the checkout process that take the stress out of budgeting for your trip. Check out these flexible payment options:

  • Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers payments in multiple instalments that suit all budgets, so you can book that well-deserved holiday now.
  • No-deposit holidays: Clicking on the "book now" button is much easier with this payment plan. With no upfront fee for your holiday, you can Book Now, Pay Later and get on your way.

Can I choose my airline with a Kaikoura Expedia holiday?
Yes, and with more than 400 airlines to pick from throughout the world, you're spoiled for choice. Look through the available options and find out which airline best suits your budget and needs.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.