MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Kaikoura

How to Get to Kaikoura

Kaikoura New Zealand Travel Guide

Air Travel to Kaikoura's Region

Nearest Airports

These airports serve as gateways to Kaikoura.

Airport Information

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC): The closest major international airport, about 2.5 hours drive south of Kaikoura.
  • Blenheim Airport (BHE): A smaller regional airport, about 1.5 hours drive north of Kaikoura. Domestic flights connect from Wellington and Auckland.
  • Main Gateway: CHC serves as the main gateway to the South Island.

Flight Connections

Find common airlines and routes for your journey.

Flight Information

  • International (CHC): Major airlines include Air New Zealand, Qantas, Virgin Australia, Fiji Airways. Direct flights mostly from Australia, Fiji, Singapore.
  • Domestic (CHC & BHE): Air New Zealand Link operates regional flights. Jetstar operates domestic from Christchurch.
  • North America: Seasonal direct flights from select cities to Auckland (AKL). Domestic connections onward to Christchurch.

Summer Peak

December-February sees highest demand and prices. Book well in advance for better rates.

Mid-Season Deals

March-May and September-November have moderate prices and good availability. Offers balance of cost and convenience.

Winter Savings

June-August offers lowest prices but fewer flight options due to reduced demand.

Getting to Kaikoura from Airports

From Christchurch Airport CHC

  • Rental Car: Most flexible. Major companies at CHC. Drive approximately 2.5 hours north on State Highway 1.
  • InterCity Bus: Daily services from Christchurch city center to Kaikoura. Airport pickup often available. Book in advance.
  • Private Transfer/Shuttle: Available but can be expensive due to distance.

From Blenheim Airport BHE

  • Rental Car: Available at BHE. Drive approximately 1.5 hours south on State Highway 1.
  • InterCity Bus: Limited services connect Blenheim to Kaikoura. Check schedules carefully.
  • Taxi/Shuttle: Local taxi services available in Blenheim for transfers.

Airport Amenities

Christchurch International Airport CHC

Full range of international airport facilities. Car rental, currency exchange, duty-free, cafes, lounges, free Wi-Fi.

Blenheim Airport BHE

A smaller airport with basic facilities, including a cafe and car rental desks.

Land Transportation to Kaikoura

Coastal Pacific Train

This scenic train service runs between Picton and Christchurch, with a stop directly in Kaikoura.

Train Travel

  • Route: The Coastal Pacific offers stunning coastal views, providing an unique way to experience the landscape.
  • Operation: Typically operates seasonally, usually from September/October to April/May.
  • Booking: Check the official Great Journeys of New Zealand website for current schedules and availability. Book in advance.

Bus Travel

InterCity is New Zealand's largest bus network. InterCity offers daily services connecting Kaikoura to Christchurch (south) and Picton/Blenheim (north).

InterCity Connections

  • Routes: InterCity offers daily services connecting Kaikoura to Christchurch (south) and Picton/Blenheim (north).
  • Booking: Book tickets online in advance for better prices and guaranteed seats, especially for popular routes.
  • FlexiPass/TravelPass: InterCity offers various passes for travelers planning multiple bus journeys across New Zealand.

Driving Your Way

Renting a car offers maximum flexibility for exploring Kaikoura and its surroundings.

Driving Guidelines

  • Driving Side: New Zealand drives on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Driving License: You must hold a valid and current driver's license from your home country. If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an approved translation is needed.
  • Road Conditions: State Highway 1, the main road to Kaikoura, is generally well-maintained. Some roads can be winding, narrow, and unsealed.

Road Safety & Parking

Navigate Kaikoura's roads safely and find convenient parking.

Safety Measures

  • Speed Limits: Strictly enforced. Generally 100 km/h on open roads and 50 km/h in urban areas.
  • Mobile Phones: Do not use a handheld mobile phone while driving.
  • DUI: New Zealand has zero tolerance for driving under the influence of drugs and strict alcohol limits.

Road Conditions and Hazards

  • The coastal section of State Highway 1 leading to Kaikoura offers spectacular views but has winding sections and can be exposed to strong weather.
  • Following the 2016 earthquake, significant roadworks were undertaken to repair and strengthen SH1.
  • Always check for current road conditions via the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency website.
  • Rockfall can be a risk in some coastal sections.
  • Be aware of large trucks and campervans, common on New Zealand roads.
  • Petrol stations are available in Kaikoura. Plan your fuel stops on longer journeys.

Sea/River Arrivals

Sea Connections

Kaikoura's main sea connections are not for general passenger ferries.

Ferry Information

  • Interislander/Bluebridge Ferries: These ferry services connect the North and South Islands between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island).
  • Location: Kaikoura is approximately 1.5 hours drive south of Picton. This is a common route for travelers crossing between the islands.
  • Cruise Ships: Kaikoura occasionally receives small expedition cruise ships, but it is not a major cruise port for larger vessels.

Arrival Procedures

Understand the immigration process and land transport from ferry terminals.

Connecting Travel

  • Immigration: For passengers arriving on international cruise ships, standard New Zealand immigration and customs procedures apply.
  • Land Connections: From Picton (the ferry terminal), travelers can rent a car, take an InterCity bus, or board the Coastal Pacific train south to Kaikoura.
  • Seamless Transition: This provides a seamless transition from sea to land travel.

Road Safety

Pay attention to road signs, especially warning signs for winding roads, sharp bends, and single-lane bridges.

Explore Freely

Renting a car offers maximum flexibility for exploring Kaikoura and its surroundings beyond the immediate town.

Scenic Route

The Coastal Pacific train offers stunning coastal views between Picton and Christchurch, with a stop in Kaikoura.

Departure Information

Departure Guidelines

Plan your departure from Kaikoura carefully to ensure a stress-free end to your trip.

Departure Tips

  • Exit Fees: No separate exit fee or tax that travelers must pay at the airport upon departure. Any departure taxes are typically included in your airline ticket.
  • International Flights: Arrive at Christchurch International Airport (CHC) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at CHC or Blenheim Airport (BHE) at least 1-1.5 hours before your domestic flight.

Airport Amenities

These are the facilities available at departure points.

Departure Point Facilities

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC): Offers check-in counters, baggage drop, security screening, duty-free shops, a variety of cafes and restaurants, and lounges.
  • Blenheim Airport (BHE): A smaller facility with basic check-in and a waiting area.
  • Kaikoura Bus Stop/Train Station: These are basic shelters; they do not offer extensive facilities.

Departure Checklist

Check-in

Check baggage limits and carry-on restrictions for your airline well in advance.

Customs/Biosecurity

For international departures, ensure no prohibited items remain in your luggage, especially any undeclared food or plant materials.

Timing

Arrive at the bus stop or train station at least 15-30 minutes before departure.

Before You Go

Reconfirm baggage limits and carry-on restrictions for your airline. For international departures, ensure no prohibited items remain in your luggage.

← Previous
What to Pack for Kaikoura
← Back to Kaikoura
Next →
Getting Around Kaikoura

Next Up: Getting Around Kaikoura. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Continue to Getting Around Kaikoura