Kaikōura is what road trips are made of. Here, you can spot whales, hike trails, spot wildlife and taste a curious creature the area is named after, all in one journey. And, when you’re in a Thrifty rental car, you’ll have a super-simple, easily affordable way of seeing this area to the fullest. Let’s find out how! 

Spot Some Whales in the Wild

One of the main reasons people from around the world come to Kaikōura is for whale watching. You can catch sperm whales all year-round, plus plenty of other thriving marine life swimming around the Hikurangi Trench. Want to get even closer? Jump on a tour boat and see for yourself. 

Walk and Wonder at Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway

For an epic walk, take the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway—a 3-hour return trail that rewards you with dramatic views of the Pacific and the Seaward Kaikōura Range. Along the way, you’ll pass dramatic clifftops, the endless ocean, and maybe, if you’re lucky, some seal colonies swimming about. 

Meet the Wild Locals

Take a short drive north, straight to Ohau Point Seal Colony, where fur seals will be waiting for your arrival. If you’re on the lookout for one of the world's largest seabirds, stop by Albatross Encounter and prepare to be wowed. If you’re all about the dolphins, join the Dolphin Encounter for the chance to swim alongside dusky dolphins. It’s fair to say that Kaikōura is filled with life! 

Taste Kaikōura’s Famous Crayfish

Did you know that te reo Māori, Kaikōura literally means ‘meal of crayfish’? Therefore, it’s only natural to see what the fuss has been about all these years. For a taste of this freshwater crustacean, stop at the casual Kaikōura Seafood BBQ Kiosk and crack one open by the beach, or drop by Nin’s Bin, a legendary food truck.  

Take in the Night Skies

When your epic day of sightseeing is over, the epicness has only just begun. Take a look up at the sky and you’ll be face to face with spellbinding views of the Milky Way—thanks to the incredibly low light pollution. To take the view to another level, join a stargazing tour, like the one at Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust, and learn about the southern hemisphere's constellations from local astronomy guides. 

Stay Comfortably

From seaside campgrounds to boutique lodges, Kaikōura has accommodation for every budget. Check out The Fairways for family-friendly units with mountain views, or Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses for a luxury experience tucked into the hills. Either way, you’ll be sleeping well! 

Kaikōura, the Thrifty Way

Kaikōura is where nature puts on quite a show. Whether you're here for just a weekend, or taking all the time you need, a Thrifty rental car will take you there with ease and affordability. Ready to hit the road and explore the ‘Meal of the Crayfish’? Book now.