Free & Cheap Things to do in Kaikoura, New Zealand
Located on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, Kaikoura is the place where the mountains meet the sea in a spectacular setting.
A perfect destination for a day trip from Christchurch, Kaikoura is most famous for its incredible wildlife experiences – such as whale watching and swimming with wild dolphins.
While some of these key Kaikoura attractions don’t come cheap, there are still plenty of activities that come with a price tag of zero! From coastal walks to seal encounters, here are some of the best free things to do in Kaikoura.
How to Visit Kaikoura on a Budget
For those travelling New Zealand on a budget, seeking out some free activities during your trip is key to keeping costs down.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking to soak in the breathtaking scenery, Kaikoura has something for everyone
Spot Seals at one of the South Island’s Largest Colonies
Kaikoura is one of the best, and most accessible places in New Zealand to watch seals in their natural habitat. Home to a major fur seal colony, the seals can be seen year-round at Point Kean, which is just a short drive from the town center.
Here, visitors can enjoy watching these playful creatures are they bask on the rocks, interact with each other, and frolick in the ocean. Come at low tide to see them in abundance.
While these animals are quite used to human company, do remember to keep your distance (at least 10m is advised). And never disturb a sleeping seal.
Hike the Peninsula Walkway
The Peninsula Walkway is probably Kaikoura’s most popular short hike and for good reason. This stunning coastal walk offers unbeatable vistas of the surrounding mountains, the coast, and the wildlife populating the area.
It’s accessible to all, but be aware that there are steep cliffs to be wary of if walking with children, and dogs are forbidden on most of the track.
You can start the track in Point Kean, right after you’ve visited the seal colony, or from the other side, in South Bay.
Walk the track along the coast one way and join the clifftop when you return. You’ll get fantastic views of both the coast and the headlands, with many places to stop and enjoy the area. The track takes around 3 hours to complete.
Brew up some fun at Emporium Brewing
Emporium Brewing is famous in Kaikoura for its amazing craft beers. But there’s a lot more to this locally-owned brewery. At the Emporium, you can play a round of mini-golf with your kids, or have some fun with friends in one of the escape rooms.
Despite being a brewery, this place is perfect to visit with kids, and at the end of the day, you can reward yourself with one of their delicious beers. If you’re visiting Kaikoura on a rainy day, head to the Emporium, you’ll love it.
Though not free, a round of mini golf will cost you $12 per adult, and $6 per child. However, you can also buy discounted family passes. The escape games are a little more expensive, but they provide an hour’s entertainment.
Hit the Beach
Kaikoura is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand, and they are 100% free! Not far from the township, you’ll find Kaikoura beach which offers incredible views of the Alps in the background.
Going north, you can take a stroll along Black Pebbles Beach, a very quiet beach where you can sometimes spot seals sunbathing on the shore.
Whether you want to enjoy a stroll, a picnic, or watch the sunset, the beaches of Kaikoura are not to miss. In the summer months (or in winter if you’re brave!), take your swimsuit for a dip in the ocean.
Take a Tour of Fyffe house
Fyffe House is Kaikoura’s oldest building and was, in the past, a pioneer whaling station.
Established in 1842, Fyffe house retraces Kaikoura’s whaling history as well as the history of the three families that lived there. The pink house is an iconic sight in Kaikoura, and holds a place on the list of Heritage New Zealand properties.
Fyffe House lies along the shoreline and offers stunning views of the sea and snow-capped mountain. In the museum housed within, you can see many artefacts and furniture from the time the house was built.
From Kaikoura city centre, you can reach the museum by following the coastal walk that goes to Point Kean. It takes about 45 minutes to walk.
Admission is $10 for adults, but it’s free for children.
Stroll among Kaikoura’s Fragrant Lavender Fields
Lavendyl lavender farm is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kaikoura. For only $5 (free for kids), you can walk around the big lavender field, enjoy the beauty of nature, admire the landscapes, and take as many photographs as you please.
As you wander around the infinitely Instagrammable farm, you’ll get to see bees hard at work (don’t worry – they’re generally too busy to bother passers-by). Try some lavender ice cream before you go, and buy some lavender-flavoured honey to take home too.
The souvenir shop is also the perfect place to find unique gifts from Kaikoura. The best time to visit this beautiful farm is from mid-December until March when the lavender is in bloom.
Learn About the Town’s History at the Kaikoura Museum
Kaikoura is a small town, but it’s home to one of the most stunning museums in New Zealand. For only $12 (half price for kids), you can enjoy learning the city’s history at the Kaikoura Museum.
You’ll learn about the early Maori settlement, and the fishing and whaling industry, and you’ll discover a collection of unique and quirky items uniquely from Kaikoura.
This very informative and interactive museum also has a great exhibit on the 2016 earthquakes, which is very well-made, fascinating and moving.
If you want to learn more about this stunning coastal village, don’t miss this museum when visiting Kaikoura.
Make a Splash at the Kaikoura Aquatic Centre
A small but fun outdoor pool complex, the Kaikoura Aquatic Centre is the perfect place to cool off in summer, especially if you’re travelling with kids.
There’s a dedicated lap pool, a seperate toddler pool, and on Sundays they fill the pool with inflatables for even more nautical fun!
The pools are open every day from November to March (except statutory days), and admission is $8 for adults, $5.50 for kids, and free for toddlers (under 5s). There are also discounted family passes available.
Browse the Fresh Fare on Offer at the Farmers Market
The Kaikoura Farmers Market runs from October through to April and is a great place to get to know the local community. Pop by on a Sunday morning between 10am and 1pm (no need for early starts here!) and enjoy the convivial atmosphere while browsing the wonderful range of fresh produce and locally made delicacies on display.
This market is all about supporting local, so you’ll also learn what’s grown abundantly in this part of the world. Head along and grab some delicious summer fruit to nibble on throughout your stay.
Kaikoura is one of the most beautiful coastal towns on the South Island of New Zealand. Travellers often drop in for a whale-watching tour before heading north. But, if you can stay for a few days, you should definitely take time to enjoy some of these free and cheap things to do in Kaikoura.
