Kaikoura
South Island, New Zealand
Daily Budget
~NZ$145
~US$55 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Adventure base
Overview
Kaikoura is a small coastal town wedged between the Seaward Kaikoura mountain range and the Pacific Ocean on the South Island's east coast. An underwater canyon drops to over 1,000 metres just offshore, creating a nutrient-rich environment that attracts an extraordinary concentration of marine life. Sperm whales are resident year-round, dolphins play in the surf, and fur seals bask on the rocky peninsula. For backpackers, Kaikoura offers a rare chance to see big marine wildlife without a big budget.
Editor's Pick
Kaikoura stands out for: Year-round sperm whale watching (one of the best places in the world); Swim with wild dusky dolphins; Free fur seal colony on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway.
Things to Do
View all 9 activitiesBuy fresh crayfish from the roadside caravans on the highway north of town
Buy fresh crayfish from the roadside caravans on the highway north of town
Go whale watching with Whale Watch Kaikoura
Go whale watching with Whale Watch Kaikoura (3-3.5 hour tour, from $150 NZD; sperm whales visible year-round)
Top Hostels
View all 5 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (NZD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | NZ$59 | $23 |
| Food | NZ$44 | $17 |
| Transport | NZ$8 | $3 |
| Activities | NZ$119 | $45 |
| Total | ~NZ$145 | ~$55 |
Hostels
5 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
9 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Kaikoura?
- Budget around NZ$145 NZD (~US$55) per day in Kaikoura, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Kaikoura?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Kaikoura are Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Kaikoura?
- Top-rated hostels in Kaikoura include Dusky Lodge, Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park, Albatross Backpackers Inn. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from NZ$47 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Kaikoura?
- Must-do activities in Kaikoura include Buy fresh crayfish from the roadside caravans on the highway north of town, Go whale watching with Whale Watch Kaikoura, Hike the Mt Fyffe Track for panoramic mountain-to-sea views. There are 9 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
