Kaikoura Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Required Apps for the Destination

Navigation & Weather

Google Maps:
Indispensable for navigation, finding points of interest, and understanding distances. Download offline maps.
MetService NZ:
For accurate and current weather forecasts. New Zealand weather changes quickly.
NZ Topo Map:
For detailed topographic maps, notably useful for extensive hiking or backcountry exploration.
Booking Platforms:
Bookit.co.nz, Booking.com, Expedia are popular platforms for booking accommodation and tours.
HappyCow:
For finding vegetarian and vegan dining options.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

Kaikoura i-SITE:
Kaikoura.co.nz (official local tourism site).
Whale Watch Kaikoura:
Whalewatch.co.nz (official operator site).
Dolphin Encounter:
Dolphinencounter.co.nz (official dolphin tours site).
New Zealand Tourism:
Newzealand.com/int/ (broader national information).
NZ Transport Agency:
Journeys.nzta.govt.nz (real-time road conditions).

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

General New Zealand guidebooks include sections on Kaikoura. Regional maps (e.g., from AA New Zealand) aid self-driving.

Local Literature

Books on New Zealand's natural history, marine life, or Māori culture enrich your appreciation.

Local Publications

Local newspapers or visitor guides are often available at the Kaikoura i-SITE. These provide current event listings and community news.

Emergency & Medical Information

Important Contacts

111: Police, Fire, Ambulance (national emergency number).
105: Non-Emergency Police.
Report lost passports or visas to local police immediately.
Contact your embassy or consulate for replacement documents.

Health & Safety

Kaikoura Healthcare (Medical Centre): 21 Churchill Street, Kaikoura (urgent care).
Nearest Major Hospital: Christchurch Hospital for serious emergencies.
Familiarize yourself with earthquake procedures (Drop, Cover, Hold).
For tsunamis, evacuate to higher ground if warning or strong quake.

Further Exploration

Documentaries & Films

Look for documentaries on New Zealand's marine life.
Many productions feature the unique environment of Kaikoura.
These can provide insights and excitement.
Explore films set in New Zealand.

Music & Art

Explore contemporary New Zealand music.
Discover Māori artists and independent bands.
Look for art inspired by the country's unique landscapes.
Experience cultural heritage through creative works.

Online Communities

Participate in online travel communities.
Reddit's r/travel or New Zealand-specific travel forums.
These can offer peer advice and recent traveler experiences.
Language learning apps, like Babbel, assist with basic Māori phrases.

Emergency Information

Safety Protocols

Emergency Contacts

111 for Police, Fire, Ambulance.
105 for non-emergency Police.
Kaikoura Healthcare for urgent medical needs.
Your Embassy/Consulate contact details.

Natural Disasters

Earthquake: Drop, Cover, Hold.
Tsunami: Evacuate immediately if long or strong quake.
Follow local authority instructions.
Know emergency assembly points.

Lost Documents

Report lost passports/visas to local police.
Contact your embassy for replacement assistance.
Keep copies of important documents.
Note emergency helpline numbers.

Environmental Care

Wildlife Interaction

Maintain respectful distances from all wildlife.
Never disturb their natural routines or feed them.
Support local businesses with ethical and sustainable practices.

Resource Preservation

Dispose of waste responsibly, use recycling bins.
Minimize your environmental footprint by conserving water and energy.
Choose tour operators prioritizing wildlife welfare.

Cultural Appreciation

Māori Cultural Values

Embrace Māori cultural values during your visit.
Learn simple greetings like "Kia Ora".
Understand the significance of land (whenua) and sea (tangaroa).

Community Engagement

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

Travel Essentials Checklist

Prior to Departure

Research itinerary and desired activities.
Confirm passport validity and visa requirements.
Book international and domestic flights.
Secure all accommodation.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Closer to the Trip

Arrange rental car or other transport.
Book major tours (e.g., Whale Watch, Dolphin Encounter).
Get any required vaccinations.
Arrange International Driving Permit (IDP) if necessary.
Inform banks of travel plans.

Arrival & Departure Pointers

First Steps

Clear immigration, collect luggage, and head to the i-SITE for local maps.

Initial Needs

Withdraw local currency or exchange money. Purchase a local SIM card for connectivity.

Departure Prep

Confirm return flight details and dispose of any prohibited biosecurity items.

Important Reminders:

New Zealand does not have a general VAT (GST) refund scheme for tourists. The price you pay is the final price.

Planning Your Journey

Detailed Planning Timeline

-6 Months Before

Research Itinerary:
Decide on your overall route and specific interests.
Check Passport Validity:
Ensure validity for at least three months beyond your departure.
Apply for NZeTA/Visa:
Submit applications well in advance if required.

-2 Months Before

Book International Flights:
Secure flights, especially if traveling during peak season.
Book Major Tours:
Whale Watch Kaikoura and other popular tours fill quickly.
Arrange 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 Tasks

Preparations 2-4 Weeks Before

Get any required or recommended vaccinations.
Arrange an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Inform your banks of your travel plans.
Confirm all your bookings and save digital copies.

Final Touches 1 Week Before

Pack your bags, including climate-appropriate clothing.
Assemble all required documents in an accessible location.
Purchase some local currency (NZD) or top up your travel money card.
Download offline maps and other useful apps.

Arrival and Departure Steps

Arrival in Kaikoura

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

Departure from Kaikoura

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.

Seamless Travel Tip:

For smooth transitions, check road conditions via the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency website if driving to the airport. Reconfirm tour departures directly with operators 24-48 hours before.

Kaikoura Travel Resources