Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway

The Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway has it all; the wild ocean, rugged cliff tops and mountain views capped with snow throughout winter, and an abundance of marine wildlife. To experience all this, you can simply drive to Point Kean or South Bay car park and wander around the rocks and shorter tracks, searching for seals and many other surprises. For those looking for more of an expedition, tackle the full loop track which takes just over three hours.

Once you hit the track, the coastal loop provides two stunning options. You can start with the high ground, which offers uninterrupted views over the ocean, rolling rural hills and Kaikōura mountain ranges. Or down low along the ocean edge where you can get up close and personal with the range of wildlife calling this dramatic landscape home. The beauty of the loop is not having to return the same way you came. Keep an eye on the tides as a high tide can push you pretty high on the bank’s edge, where you’ll share the path with many seal friends. 

At times, it feels like you could be exploring another planet.  A range of different shapes and sizes of the brittle white rock, endless kelp and flotsam and jetsam that makes this walk feel like a bit of an adventure. The earthquake has played a part by revealing more of the ocean floor than previously seen. At times, the land is teeming with seals and seabirds, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins or whales on rare occasions. There’s signage featuring historical information and facts on the marine life occupying the land and sea. Closer to Point Kean, you’ll also see divers setting out with catch bags on the hunt for crayfish and butterfish. 

Another spot to pop into is Fyffe House, located before Point Kean car park. Erected in 1844, this pretty in pink house is all that’s left of Waiopuka Whaling Station. It acts as a historic site with plenty of information about Maōri history, whaling and settlers.