MileHacker Logo
Kaikoura Travel Hacks

Kaikoura Travel Hacks

Kaikoura New Zealand Travel Guide

Money-Saving Strategies

Ways to manage your spending in Kaikoura.

Smart Spending

  • No specific Kaikoura-only discount passes exist.
  • InterCity FlexiPass for bus travel across New Zealand.
  • Prioritize free attractions like the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway.
  • Visit the Point Kean Seal Colony.

Dining & Getting Around

  • Check local pubs and restaurants for happy hour specials.
  • Some coffee shops may have breakfast or lunch specials.
  • Consider InterCity bus or the picturesque Coastal Pacific train.
  • Carpooling in a rental car shares costs effectively.

Accommodation Choices

  • Hostels offer significantly cheaper lodging.
  • Holiday park cabins are budget-friendly.
  • Camping has a low-cost option.
  • Utilize kitchen facilities for self-catering.

General Savings

  • Keep track of daily spending.
  • Look for bundle deals on activities.
  • Purchase groceries from supermarkets.
  • Avoid impulse buys.

Time-Saving Tips

Maximize your time in Kaikoura, especially if your visit is brief.

Efficient Touring

  • Pre-booking popular marine tours is .
  • Early morning tours often mean calmer seas for marine activities.
  • A rental car speeds travel from Christchurch or Picton.

Planning Excursions

  • Plan day trips logically, like Hanmer Springs or Marlborough.
  • Group nearby attractions to reduce travel time.
  • Pre-book all marine tours, especially during peak season.
  • Pre-book popular accommodation as it fills quickly.

Streamlined Travel

  • Consider flying to a closer airport if time is very limited.
  • Utilize express train services where possible for scenic routes.
  • Pin locations on your digital map for easy navigation.
  • Download offline maps to avoid connectivity issues.

Digital Efficiency

  • Keep all confirmations on your phone.
  • Set reminders for tour departures.
  • Use reliable Wi-Fi for planning updates.
  • Make sure your devices are charged throughout the day.

Local Insights

Gain knowledge from locals to enrich your experience.

Avoid Common Tourist Mistakes

  • Always take layers of clothing and waterproofs; Kaikoura's weather shifts quickly.
  • Not making a reservation tours in advance leads to disappointment.
  • Maintain at least 20 meters (60 feet) from seals; never get between a seal and the ocean.
  • Use repellent diligently, especially near water, for sandflies.

Cultural Notes

  • Kiwis typically possess a laid-back, friendly, and direct approach.
  • Politeness is appreciated.
  • Queuing is generally observed and respected.
  • A simple "Kia Ora" (hello) shows respect for Māori culture.

Local Etiquette

  • Respect local conservation efforts.
  • Expect a relaxed pace of life.
  • Small talk is common and friendly.
  • Drive cautiously, especially on country roads.

Impress Local People

  • Using "Kia Ora" (hello) is appreciated.
  • Using common Kiwi slang like "chur" (cool/thanks).
  • Saying "sweet as" (great) can bring a smile.
  • Engage with locals about their region.

Traveler-Specific Advice

Tailor your approach based on your travel companions.

Solo & Family Travel

  • Kaikoura is safe for solo travelers.
  • Hostels offer good opportunities to meet others.
  • Tours are excellent for socializing.
  • Choose family-friendly accommodation, like holiday parks.

Kid-Friendly & Group Logistics

  • Whale watching tours are suitable for most ages.
  • Check minimum age for dolphin swimming.
  • Have snacks with you and entertainment for car journeys.
  • For groups, book accommodation and tours well in advance.

Accessibility

  • Contact providers directly about specific accessibility needs.
  • Confirm capabilities before booking.
  • Refer to official tourism information for accessibility details.
  • Check signage for accessible routes.

Group Travel

  • Consider renting a multi-passenger van for groups.
  • Group rates may be available for tours; inquire when booking.
  • Keep all group reservations organized.
  • Communicate plans clearly within the group.

Smart Tip:

Explore language learning before your trip with resources like Babbel to engage more meaningfully with the local culture. Consider a VPN service such as NordVPN for secure browsing while traveling.

Resources & References

These online tools and platforms assist in arranging and on-the-ground navigation.

Digital Guides

Google Maps and MetService NZ are indispensable for navigation and weather updates.

Travel Platforms

Bookit.co.nz, Booking.com, and Sites like expedia are useful for securing accommodations and tours.

Dining & Hiking

HappyCow assists in locating vegetarian options, and NZ Topo Map for detailed trails for hiking.

Online Resources

Essential Websites

National & Transport Links

Community & Inspiration:

Search for official Kaikoura tourism social media for updates. Explore travel podcasts or marine life documentaries about New Zealand for insights.

Important Reminders

Safety & Planning Points

Road Safety

  • Drive on the left.
  • Watch for wildlife on roads.
  • Adhere to speed limits.
  • Take breaks on long journeys.

Weather Readiness

  • Pack layers.
  • Conditions change rapidly.
  • Carry waterproof clothing.
  • Check forecasts daily.

Wildlife Respect

  • Keep distances.
  • Never feed animals.
  • Do not disturb nesting birds.
  • Observe from a distance.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Waste Disposal

  • Dispose of waste responsibly.
  • Use recycling bins where possible.
  • Minimize your environmental footprint.

Resource Conservation

  • Conserve water and energy.
  • Choose ethical tour operators.
  • Support local businesses with sustainable practices.

Cultural Sensitivity

Māori Greetings

  • Learn simple greetings like 'Kia Ora'.
  • Understand significance of 'whenua' (land) and 'tangaroa' (sea).
  • Embrace Māori cultural values.

Community Engagement

  • Your visit can contribute positively to economic well-being.
  • Preserve natural and cultural treasures.
  • Leave only footprints, take only memories.

Travel Safety

Emergency Contacts

  1. Police, Fire, Ambulance: Dial 111 (national emergency number).
  2. Non-Emergency Police: Dial 105.
  3. Kaikoura Healthcare (Medical Centre): 21 Churchill St.
  4. Nearest Major Hospital: Christchurch Hospital.
  5. Contact your country's Embassy/Consulate.

Disaster Preparedness

  1. Earthquake: Drop, Cover, Hold.
  2. Tsunami: Evacuate to higher ground if a warning is issued or a strong quake occurs.
  3. Follow local authority instructions.
  4. Emergency assembly points are signposted.
  5. Inform your emergency contact of your itinerary.

Before You Go

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (3 months beyond departure). Apply for NZeTA or visa well in advance.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international and domestic flights early. Secure everything accommodation for your trip.

Insurance & Driving

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads). Arrange an International Driving Permit if needed.

Important Note:

New Zealand does not have a general VAT (Goods and Services Tax, or GST) refund scheme for tourists. The price displayed is the final price.

Planning Your Journey

Pre-Trip Planning

Initial Steps

  • Research itinerary (3-6 months before).

    Decide on your overall route and what you wish to see.

  • Check passport validity.

    Ensure validity for valid for a minimum of three months after your departure date.

  • Apply for NZeTA or visa.

    Submit applications well in advance if required for your nationality.

Closer to Departure

  • Book international flights.

    Secure your flights, especially if you go during peak season.

  • Book major tours.

    Whale Watch Kaikoura and other popular tours fill quickly.

  • Arrange your rental car.

    Secure your vehicle if you plan to drive around the region.

Essential Bookings

NZeTA/Visa & Flights

Secure your NZeTA or visa if necessary. Book international and domestic flights.

Accommodation & Tours

Confirm all accommodation reservations. Book major marine tours in advance.

Transport & Ferry

Arrange rental car. Book inter-island ferry or Coastal Pacific train tickets.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Final Checks

  • Inform banks of your travel plans.
  • Confirm all your bookings and save digital copies.
  • Pack your bags with climate-appropriate clothing.
  • Assemble all required documents in an easily accessible location.

Connectivity & Cash

  • Purchase some local currency (NZD) or top up your travel money card.
  • Download offline maps and other useful apps to your phone.
  • Check your flight status and confirm departure times (24-48 hours before).
  • Charge all your electronics.

Arrival & Departure

Upon Arrival

  • Clear immigration and customs efficiently.
  • Collect your luggage.
  • Grab a local map from the airport or Kaikoura i-SITE.
  • Locate your accommodation on the map.

Before Departure

  • Withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange currency if needed.
  • Purchase a a LOCAL sim at the airport or in town.
  • Confirm your return flight details.
  • Dispose of any prohibited biosecurity items.

Important Planning Note:

Pre-trip research on New Zealand driving rules, the marine environment, and fundamental Māori greetings truly enriches your visit.

← Previous
Kaikoura Itineraries
← Back to Kaikoura
Next →
Kaikoura Travel Resources

Next Up: Kaikoura Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Continue to Kaikoura Travel Resources