MileHacker Logo
Kaikoura Travel Hacks

Kaikoura Travel Hacks

Kaikoura New Zealand Travel Guide

Money-Saving Strategies

Ways to manage your expenses 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 cafes may have breakfast or lunch specials.
  • Consider InterCity bus or the scenic 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 available 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.
  • Keep devices charged throughout the day.

Local Insights

Gain knowledge from locals to enrich your experience.

Avoid Common Tourist Mistakes

  • Always pack layers and waterproofs; Kaikoura's weather shifts quickly.
  • Not booking 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 generally have 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 rural 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.
  • Pack snacks 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 discounts 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 with planning 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 Expedia are useful for securing accommodations and tours.

Dining & Hiking

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

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 available.
  • 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 family or friends 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 all 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 at least three months beyond 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 traveling 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 required. 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.
  • Pick up 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 local SIM card 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 basic 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