Kaikoura Visitor Centre

13/06/2026

Well… that wasn’t quite the travel plan! 🚐😅

Christian Hull got unexpectedly stuck in Kaikōura for an extra night after poor old Patsy had a few issues (not any fault of Christian’s) and sadly had to be towed away. 🚛💔

But every adventure has a new chapter… and Saffie has officially entered the story! ✨🚐

With a new set of wheels sorted, Christian was back on the road yesterday afternoon and ready to continue his travels. Safe travels, Christian — we loved having you in Kaikōura (even if it was an unplanned extended stay 😉).

Bye Patsy… you served well! 👋💙 Welcome Saffie!

11/06/2026

We are incredibly grateful to Lisa Bond from Kaikoura NZ for her generous donation of a bike rack to the Visitor Centre.

This fantastic addition will allow cycling enthusiasts to safely park their bikes while they explore the centre, learn more about our region, and plan their next adventure.

Community contributions like this make a real difference, and we are thankful for Lisa's generosity and dedication to enhancing the visitor experience in Kaikōura. We appreciate everything you do for our community and the positive impact you continue to make.

Thank you, Lisa and Destination Kaikōura, for helping make Kaikōura an even better place for both locals and visitors alike. 🚴‍♂️💙🚴‍♂️💙

Helping make Kaikōura even better, one bike rack at a time. 🚲

11/06/2026

Looking for something fun to do with the kids this weekend?

Why not head along to the Family Fun Day at Emporium Brewing this Sunday from 11am–2pm!

There'll be plenty to keep the little ones entertained, including:
🎈 FREE bouncy castle
⛳ FREE mini golf
🐋 Whale-themed crafts and activities

It's the perfect opportunity for the kids to have some fun while the adults relax and enjoy the great atmosphere.

Bring the whole family along for a fantastic day out – there's something for everyone!

11/06/2026

If you know, you know... 👀✨

Australian comedian and social media personality Christian Hull has been travelling around the South Island for the past five weeks and chose to spend the night in our beautiful town last night!

As a BIG fan, Vicki was absolutely thrilled to meet him yesterday and chat about Kaikoura. 🌊🐋🏔️

But the story doesn't end there! While sitting at work later today, Vicki noticed Christian had the bonnet up on his campervan and looked like he might be having a few vehicle troubles. Being the helpful local she is, she wandered over to see if he needed a hand. After a quick chat, she called her good friend, who came down to take a look and was able to give Christian the advice and direction he needed to get things sorted.

Just another example of the friendly community spirit that makes Kaikōura such a special place to visit and another reason for him to love our wee town. 😊

Safe travels for the rest of your South Island adventure, Christian – and thanks for stopping by Kaikōura!

11/06/2026

⭐CELEBRATE MATARIKI 2026 IN KAIKŌURA ⭐

Here in Kaikōura, Matariki is a time of celebration of life and community, a time of remembrance, a time of reflecting on the past and planning for the future. It is a time of coming together to kōrero, share kai, and waiata, A time to show Manaakitanga (hospitality, kindness and care for others).
Come and celebrate Te Wa o Matariki with a range of wonderful community events for locals and visitors alike.

⭐ Matariki 2026 – Kaikōura Community Morning - Moana Skies

Friday 10 July, 6.30am – 8.30am (before sunrise) at Wakatū Quay

Wrap up in your winter woollies and join us for a relaxed community celebration featuring stargazing, telescopes, kai, kōrero, and more.
There is no charge to attend. Donations to the Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust are greatly appreciated and help support future community astronomy and dark sky initiatives.
For more information: 🌟 MATARIKI 2026 - Kaikōura Community Morning 🌟, Kaikoura, New Zealand, 10 July 2026 | AllEvents

⭐Puanga mā Matariki Mākete

Thursday 25th June, 3pm – 6pm, at the Memorial Hall.

What a great way to kick start matariki 2026. Head down to the Memorial Hall where you’ll get to enjoy local market stalls, kai, entertainment, activities for tamariki, and Matariki education and giveaways.

⭐ Te Whanau Whakaoranga would like to celebrate Te Wa o Matariki, the season of Matariki, with you……. for everyone, locals, and visitors.

Saturday 11th July. Doors open at 1pm at the Scouts Hall

Come and experience kai Māori (and other food varieties, waiata (singing), kōrero (sharing talk), mahi harakeke (flax art) and manaaki (hospitality).

⭐ Kaikōura Star Flight – Eco Zip

Experience an unforgettable small group ziplining and stargazing adventure beneath the internationally recognised Kaikōura Dark Sky Sanctuary.
EcoZip Kaikōura and astro-photographer Rachel Gillespie have partnered to create this unique experience under the stars.
More information on bookings: https://www.ecozipadventures.co.nz/kaikoura/kaikour-combos/

⭐Matariki Rail Experience – Great Journeys NZ

Saturday 11 July 2026:

Enjoy a special return rail journey from Ōtautahi Christchurch to Kaikōura for an evening of stargazing, cultural discovery, and historical storytelling beneath Te Waipounamu’s spectacular winter skies. The experience includes a four-course winter-themed dining experience with beer and wine served throughout the journey.
For more information on booking: https://www.greatjourneysnz.com/short-breaks-and-packages/matariki/

10/06/2026

This is absolutely amazing for Kaikoura. Thank you to all of the wonderful people that have made this possible, you are truly amazing. 🚲

https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/06/10/people-power-drives-magical-stretch-of-whale-trail-in-kaikoura/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASWCaBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEebB0XweHYqWAE-uXCIo4hIkHlcnBKMmwRS7dcTdH1m-x9f3hCSZFO9ezl-C8_aem_vUh1jYIc5Wfg3TIo-Uo0Yw

Kaikōura community have stepped up with funding for three cycle and foot bridges on a 2km stretch in the north of Canterbury region.

10/06/2026

🍩☕ Restaurant of the Week ☕🍩

This week's Restaurant of the Week spotlight shines on Kylie’s Kitchen – a popular local food truck serving up a delicious range of fresh and tasty treats.

Whether you're craving warm cinnamon donuts, freshly baked muffins, buttery croissants, sandwiches, hearty hot food, or a refreshing hot or cold drink, Kylie’s Kitchen has something to satisfy every appetite.

Conveniently located outside Whale Watch on Whaleway Station Road, it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee, snack, or meal before heading off on your tour or to relax and refuel afterwards.

And let's not forget one of the best parts – the stunning view! You can sit back, enjoy a hot coffee, and take in the beautiful Kaikōura scenery while watching the world go by.

Next time you're passing by, be sure to stop in, say hello, and treat yourself to one of the many delicious options on offer. Supporting local never tasted so good!

📍 Outside Whale Watch, Whaleway Station Road
☕ Great coffee, delicious food, and incredible views
🌟 Friendly service with something for everyone

10/06/2026

The sky is the most beautiful piece of art — painted fresh every single day.

No two sunsets are ever the same, no two clouds tell the same story, and every moment brings a new masterpiece. From soft morning colours to dramatic evening skies, nature reminds us to pause, look up, and appreciate the beauty all around us.

Sometimes the most breathtaking artwork isn't found in a gallery... it's right above our heads. ☁️✨🌅

09/06/2026

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09/06/2026

Something fun to put in your calendar 🐋