What to Pack & Bring: Kaikoura

Essential Layers

Dress in layers for changeable weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer.

Layering Guide

Base Layer: Moisture-wicking merino wool or synthetic fabrics regulate temperature and dry quickly.
Mid-Layer: Insulating fleece jacket or a lightweight down vest for warmth, easy to remove.
Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket. Essential for marine tours and all general outdoor activities.

Specific Attire

Pack clothing relevant to your planned adventures.

Activity-Specific Attire

Marine Tours: Warm, waterproof, and windproof outer layers. Wetsuits typically from operators for swimming.
Hiking: Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots and moisture-wicking socks.
Dining: Casual, practical clothing accepted everywhere. Smart casual for nicer eateries.

Footwear Recommendations

Everyday Comfort

Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for general town exploration and short strolls.

Essential for general wear

Trail Exploration

Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes for the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway and other trails, which can be uneven or muddy.

Good for varied terrains

Water Activities

Sandals or flip-flops are good for general wear around town. Water shoes are useful for kayaking.

Useful for wet conditions

Essential Documents

Documentation Check

Carry these items with you and keep copies separate from the originals.

Passport and Visa/NZeTA: Carry your original passport. Keep printouts or digital copies of your NZeTA or visa confirmation.
Travel Insurance Policy: Have a printout and digital copy of your policy details, including emergency contact numbers and policy numbers.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Required if your national driving license is not in English. Carry your original license as well.
Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Helpful for personal reference if medical attention becomes necessary.

Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Keep copies of accommodation, flights, and tour bookings.
Emergency Contact Information: Have a clear list of family or friends to contact in an emergency.
Student/Senior IDs: If applicable, carry these for potential discounts at attractions or on transportation.
Backup Copies: Store copies in different, secure locations (e.g., cloud storage, email, a physical folder in separate luggage).

Technology & Electronics

Tech Essentials

Stay connected and capture your memories with the right gear.

Connectivity & Power

Power Adapter: New Zealand uses Type I electrical outlets (three flat pins, two angled). Voltage is 230V at 50Hz. A Universal Travel Power Adapter with USB Ports is ideal.
Mobile Phone Compatibility and SIM Card Options: Your mobile phone should be GSM network compatible. Local SIM cards are available from Spark, Vodafone, and 2degrees.
Portable Chargers and Power Banks: Useful for keeping devices charged while out on tours or long hikes, especially where power outlets are unavailable. The Anker PowerCore Portable Charger is a reliable option.

Capturing Memories

Bring the right equipment to document your Kaikoura experience.

Camera Gear & Apps

Camera Equipment Recommendations: For marine wildlife, a camera with a good zoom lens is highly recommended. Consider a waterproof or water-resistant camera for activities on the water.
Binoculars: A pair of binoculars will greatly enhance your wildlife viewing experience (e.g., Nikon Aculon A211 10x42).
Recommended Apps for Navigation, Translation, and Local Services: Google Maps for navigation, MetService NZ for accurate local weather, Google Translate for quick translations.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox) for backing up photos and important documents.

Portable Hard Drive

Carry a portable hard drive for backing up photos and important documents for offline access.

Security Accessories

A small padlock for hostel lockers provides peace of mind. An RFID Blocking Travel Wallet protects your cards.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

Prepare a basic health kit for common travel ailments and specific Kaikoura conditions.

First Aid & Meds

First Aid Kit: Include basic pain relievers, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze, medical tape, blister treatment (e.g., Compeed), hydrocortisone cream for insect bites, and any personal medications.
Prescription Medications: Carry these in their original packaging. Include a copy of your prescription and a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances.
Over-the-counter medications: For common issues like colds, allergies, stomach upset, and pain relief.

Outdoor Safety

Stay protected from natural elements during your activities.

Outdoor Protection

Motion sickness remedies: Motion sickness medication (e.g., Dramamine, Bonine) is highly recommended for marine tours, as the ocean can be choppy.
Insect repellent and sun protection: Bring high SPF sunscreen (minimum SPF 30+, preferably 50+) and strong insect repellent for sandflies. These are both very important.
Water purification options: Not generally necessary as tap water is safe throughout New Zealand. For extended multi-day backcountry hiking, a LifeStraw Personal Water Filter could be considered.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness

Ocean swells on marine tours can cause motion sickness.
Consider medication (e.g., Dramamine) or natural remedies (ginger) before tours.
Sit near the middle of the boat for better stability.

Sun Protection

New Zealand has very high UV levels due to a thinner ozone layer.
Sun protection is always needed, even on cloudy days.
Apply high SPF sunscreen frequently, wear a hat and sunglasses.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

A small daypack for water and snacks. A reusable water bottle. Trekking poles are optional for longer or steeper trails.

Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Moisture-wicking socks
Lightweight rain jacket
Sun hat and sunglasses

Marine Tour Kit

A waterproof dry bag for electronics and valuables. Binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing.

Waterproof dry bag for camera/phone
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Warm layers (even in summer)
Swimwear (for dolphin/seal swims)

Cycling Needs

Bicycle rentals are available from several local businesses and accommodations. Cycling is a pleasant way to explore the peninsula.

Helmet (compulsory in NZ)
Comfortable cycling clothing
Water bottle
Small backpack for essentials

Equipment Rental Advice

Consider Renting These

Wetsuits: Typically provided by dolphin or seal swim operators. No need to bring your own.
Ski/Snowboard Gear: Rent locally if combining with a ski trip. Easier than bringing from home.
Rental Cars: Rent from major cities for better availability and deals.

Consider Bringing These

Portable Chargers: Keep your devices powered on long outings.
Specialty Camera Gear: If you have specific lenses or equipment for wildlife photography.
Wildlife Guides: For passionate birders or marine life enthusiasts.
Reusable Utensils: Reduce single-use plastic waste on the go.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort and Security

Do not forget these small but helpful items that improve your travel experience.

Everyday Essentials

Comfort items: A neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs can make long bus or train journeys more comfortable.
Security items: A small padlock for hostel lockers provides peace of mind. A money belt for valuables or a RFID Blocking Travel Wallet protects your cards.
Reusable items: A Hydro Flask Water Bottle allows you to refill with safe tap water and reduces plastic waste. A reusable shopping bag is useful as New Zealand has a plastic bag ban.
Region-specific items: A basic phrasebook for Māori greetings (like "Kia Ora" for hello, "Ka Pai" for good) can show respect and interest.

Conscious Packing

Support sustainable tourism and reduce your environmental footprint.

Eco-Friendly Travel Gear

Sustainable Choices: A Hydro Flask water bottle reduces plastic waste. A reusable shopping bag is useful as New Zealand has a plastic bag ban.
Minimize Waste: Consider reusable utensils to cut down on single-use plastic.
Difficult to find: Specific brands of toiletries, specialized camera gear, or particular dietary items may be harder to find or more expensive locally. Consider bringing these.
Health Preparedness: A compact first aid kit. Any personal medications in original packaging.

Departure Reminder

Final Check

Before you depart, ensure all your essential documents are organized.

Reconfirm Times

Reconfirm flight or bus times and allow ample time for check-in.

Specialty Items

Warm Hat & Gloves

These items are recommended for marine tours, especially in cooler months or if you are sensitive to cold.
The wind chill on the water can be surprising.

Swimwear & Towel

Pack swimwear if you plan on water activities like dolphin swimming or kayaking.
Bring a towel for after water activities.
Wetsuits are typically from tour operators.

Packing Pro Tips

New Zealand weather changes quickly, especially on the South Island. Layering your clothing works best for adapting to different conditions throughout the day.

Carry copies of important documents separately from originals. Consider cloud storage for digital backups.

What to Pack & Bring