Things to Do with Kids in Kaikōura

Nothing burns off energy quite like a whānau hīkoi, and the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway shows off a whole different side of town. Spot seabirds and the fur seals lazing on the rocks at Point Kean, discover historic pā and whaling sites, and take in stunning views across the Pacific. The full loop takes around three hours, but you can easily drive to the Point Kean or South Bay car parks and walk a shorter section with little legs. Just remember to keep a safe distance (at least 20 metres) from the seals.

You can’t visit Kaikōura without heading out to sea. Whale Watch Kaikōura runs tours of just under two and a half hours on the water, searching for the giant sperm whales that live off the coast year-round, along with dusky dolphins, fur seals and albatross. Kids need to be at least three years old to join, and the skipper may raise the age limit if the sea is rough, so it’s worth checking conditions on the day.

Just four kilometres out of town, Wacky Stays & Llama Trekking is home to some forty-odd animals, from pigs, sheep and chickens to alpacas, turkeys and, of course, llamas. Kids will love the taster trek, an hour-long walk with a llama in tow, while keen walkers can take on the half-day trek along the Kaikōura coast. Make a weekend of it by booking one of the quirky glamping stays, from a converted train carriage to a classic Kiwi house truck.

Want to explore the town on two wheels with the entire whānau? Look no further than The Kaikōura Trail, which takes you on a bike ride across the district with stunning views of Mt Fyffe and the seaward Kaikōura ranges. Follow the signs along the trail and choose from various sections to cover a suitable distance for your group. A basic mountain bike is a requirement for making it an enjoyable ride.

Quite possibly the most scenic skate park in the country, if not the world, Kaikōura skate park is a must-hit spot with your wheel-mad moppets. Situated literally at the water’s edge on the Esplanade, you might just get lucky enough to watch a pod of dolphins swim on by, or a whale tail pop up on the horizon as your kids perfect their latest tricks. 

Housed in the landmark craypot building in the centre of town, Kaikōura Museum tells the story of the region’s connection between land and sea. Follow the exhibitions from the creation of Kaikōura through to its marine life and whaling history, and don’t miss the earthquake exhibition. Little ones will love the carpet map of Kaikōura in front of the amphitheatre and the hidden surprises in the seating squares. Kids’ entry is just $6, making it a great rainy day option.

The iconic pink art deco building of Te Whare Tōi ō Kaikōura Mayfair Arts & Culture Centre is impossible to miss on the waterfront. This is the local cinema, art exhibition and event space, rebuilt after the earthquake with purpose-built auditoriums. Events roll through here throughout the year, but if nothing else there’s bound to be a family-friendly film on to keep everyone entertained on a rainy afternoon.

Head to Emporium Brewing for an afternoon of fun for children and adults alike. Its 18-hole mini golf course will keep the kids busy, while the craft beer will have the parents smiling, and Emporium’s famous burgers will hit the spot after a round of hole-in-ones and near misses. For a different kind of family bonding, there are two escape rooms too, but these need to be booked ahead.

Treat your little troopers to a fluffy or hot chocolate at the Beach House Cafe and grab yourself a great cup of coffee while you’re at it. A true local’s favourite, this cafe has plenty of different rooms to discover, wonderful mountain views from its back deck and a great community vibe, plus highchairs to plonk the smallest of the crew in while you enjoy that cuppa hands-free.

Open over the warmer months, Poppy’s Parlour is a must-stop ice cream shop when the sun is out. Homemade real fruit ice creams in all your favourite flavours are scooped here to the kids’ delight, and coffee to keep the grown-ups going can be picked up from Poppy’s too.

What better way to end a day of exploration than grabbing some quality fish n’ chips and heading to the beach to fill those hungry tummies in true Kiwi style, as the light begins to fade? Grab your kai from Coopers Catch, tuck it under the arm, and guide the kids across the bridge over to the oceanfront. Settle down on the rocks, dig in and take a moment to appreciate the stunning simplicity of a day well spent.