Pre-Trip Checklist: Kaikoura

Required Preparations

Travel planning helps ensure you cover all important aspects.

Your Planning Timeline

A chronological approach for a smooth trip.

-6 Months Before

Itinerary Research

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

Flights & Visas

Apply for NZeTA or visa if required. Book international flights.

Major Bookings

Book major tours like Whale Watch Kaikoura, as they fill quickly.

-2 Months Before

Accommodation & Transport

Secure all accommodation for your trip. Arrange your rental car if you plan to drive.

Internal Travel

Book domestic flights, trains (like the Coastal Pacific), or inter-island ferry services.

Insurance & Detail

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Plan your daily activities in detail.

-4 Weeks Before

Health & Permits

Get any required or recommended vaccinations. Arrange an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Financial & Confirmations

Inform your banks of your travel plans. Confirm all your bookings and save digital copies.

Packing & Apps

Pack your bags with climate-appropriate clothing. Download offline maps and other useful apps.

Essential Bookings

items to secure in advance.

Travel Essentials

NZeTA/Visa (if needed).
International and domestic flights.
All accommodation.
Major marine tours (Whale Watch, Dolphin Encounter).

On-Ground Logistics

Arrangements for your movement and safety during your stay.

Getting Around & Protection

Rental car (if driving).
Inter-island ferry (if connecting to the North Island).
Coastal Pacific train (if using this scenic route).
Comprehensive travel insurance.

Preparation Insights

Gaining knowledge before your journey.

Driving Rules

Read up on New Zealand driving rules.
Drive on the left.
Specific road conditions.
Understand speed limits.

Marine Environment

Understand Kaikoura's unique marine environment.
Familiarize yourself with species you hope to see.
Learn about local conservation efforts.
Respect wildlife viewing protocols.

Cultural Norms

Familiarize yourself with basic Māori greetings.
Learn about local customs and etiquette.
Understand social norms.

Home Preparations:

Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts. Arrange pet care, mail collection, and house-sitting if required.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist you in settling in quickly upon reaching Kaikoura.

First Steps

1
Clear immigration and customs efficiently.
Expedite your entry process.
2
Collect your luggage.
Retrieve your belongings from the baggage claim.
3
Pick up a local map.
Obtain one from the airport or the Kaikoura i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

Orientation & Connectivity

Locate your accommodation.
Pin your lodging on your map for easy access.
Currency & Purchases.
Withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange currency for immediate expenses.
Local SIM Card.
Purchase one at the airport or in town for connectivity.

Arrival Logistics

Ground Transportation

Follow your pre-booked plans for rental car pickup, bus transfer, or shuttle service.

Reach your lodging efficiently.

Local Orientation

Utilize the local map to orient yourself within Kaikoura.

Pin points of interest.

Immediate Connectivity

Ensure your phone has local service for emergencies and navigation.

Stay connected with ease.

Essential Arrival Tip:

Ensure your travel money card is loaded with NZD or withdraw cash from an ATM upon arrival to cover immediate expenses.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure from Kaikoura and New Zealand.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Check your luggage weight limits for your return flight.
If you plan to ship items, inquire about customs regulations and costs early.
Consider Eagle Creek for travel organization products.

Tax & Timing

New Zealand does not have a general VAT (GST) refund scheme for tourists.
Allow ample time for airport transfers and check-in.
2-3 hours for international flights; 1-1.5 hours for domestic flights.
Road conditions can affect travel times, factor this in.

Travel Document Check

A final review of your essential papers.

Pre-Departure Confirms

Confirm return flight detailsChecked
Passport and necessary travel documents accessibilityReady
Dispose of any prohibited biosecurity itemsDone
Confirm airport transfer arrangementsArranged

Last-Minute Tips

Road conditions can affect travel times; factor this in.
Reconfirm any tour departures directly with operators.
Charge all your electronics before your journey.
Say 'Ka Kite' (goodbye) to Kaikoura.

Seamless Departure Tip:

Ensure a stress-free exit by organizing your travel documents and knowing your airport transfer options.

Double-check road conditions if self-driving to the airport.

Pre-Trip Checklist