The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is the perfect way to experience the ocean and the wildlife of the area.

The peninsula even presents diving or snorkelling opportunities. 

Starting from town centre or from the Point Kean car park, make your way along the coastline by following the signs. From the Point Kean car park, the walk climbs to the clifftops. Accompanied by stunning views, make your way along the track to Whalers Bay. There is a side trip from Whalers Bay down to the shoreline and back.

Afterwards, continue on to South Bay where the track then starts to descend after the view point. From South Bay, there is another side trip to Limestone Bay which offers further views to the south.

From South Bay, make your way back to town centre via Scarborough street. If you have parked at the Point Kean car park, continue through town until you reach Esplanade street and follow the coastline to the car park. Alternatively, arrange for pick up from the South Bay car park or return the same way.

Whale watching scenic flight from Kaikoura with sperm whale

Save $133 - off the a Whale Watching Scenic 40 minute flight from Kaikoura

Fly over the whales on this stunning scenic flight which includes Kaikoura and it’s coastline. 

Quick Facts about this walk

  • Location: Kaikoura, South Island, New Zealand
  • Time needed: 3 hour walk
  • Distance: 11.7 km
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Bikes allowed: No
  • Route: Loop
  • Elevation: Minimal
  • Wet Feet: Yes, along the shoreline
  • Toilets: There are toilets at Armers Beach on the way to Point Kean car park and in South Bay.
  • Dogs: Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash to protect the wildlife.
  • Mobile Coverage: Yes, very good.
Seal on a rock in Kaikoura

Summary points about this walk

Walk Highlights

As the walkway is along the clifftops, it is the ideal location to view the ocean and the coastline. It is also possible to whale watch along this walk. You will also be able to see seals from the Point Kean car park.

Track Quality

The walkway is well-paved and jointly maintained by Whale Watch Kaikoura, Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura, Kaikoura District Council and the Department of Conservation (DOC)

Transport

Kaikoura is a stop on InterCity’s bus network. The start of the walk is from town centre towards Point Kean car park where the walkway officially starts.

Driving Instructions

Kaikoura is midway between Picton and Christchurch on the east coast of the South Island. start the walk from town centre for views along the shorelines on esplanade and Avoca st. You can also drive 10 minutes to Point Kean car park for a shorter walk.

Shops & Restaurants Nearby

There are shops and restaurants in Kaikoura’s town centre, though none along the clifftops.

Area & Trail History

Kaikoura was an ideal settlement for both the Maori over the last 800 years and the European settlers more recently because of the amount of food from the ocean and the shelter of the peninsula. The European settlers brought with them the whaling industry, which resulted in the rapid decline of whales in Kaikoura. Marine mammals are now protected in New Zealand and Kaikoura is now one of the country’s best whale watching locations.

Map Location

More of my walks in Kaikoura