Kaikoura a popular spot for walkers
New Zealand Walks: Kaikoura - a popular spot for walkers
Jutting out from the rugged east coast of the South Island, with a backdrop of steep mountains, snow-capped in winter, Kaikoura is a major attraction for walkers.
Its wildlife, including whales, dolphins,seals,birdsandcrayfish,provides a unique experience. It is also an area rich in history and scenic beauty.
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway Time: Three Hours Distance: 4.4 km
The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
provides easy access to explore the Kaikoura Peninsula. An impressive collection of information panels located along the walkway enables you to journey into the fascinating history of the people and to learn of the geology, the animals and the plants that make the area so special.
The walk is classified as a walking track and is suitable for families, providing an easy to moderate half- or full-day trip. A section of the walkway isalsoaccessibletowheelchairs. Walkingshoesandwarm,windproofcloth
ing are required.
The track crosses the peninsula’s clifftop, with excellent views of the Seaward Kaikōura Range, ocean and coastline, to South Bay. It returns to the township via South Bay and Toms Track.
Distinctive marker posts and, at some locations, interpretation signs link a loop walkway, from West End the town centre, to Point Kean car park.
To fully explore and enjoy the features of the walk, allow at least three hours to complete the whole walkway. The nature of the track means it can be exposed in places. Walkers should stick to the formed track and supervise children at all times.
Kaikōura town centre to Point Kean car park Time: 50 minutes Distance: 4.4 km
From the town centre, follow the footpath and road verge along The Esplanade, Avoca Street and Fyffe Quay to Point Kean. On the way, look out for the interpretation signs on The Esplanade opposite Brighton and Margate Streets, telling stories of ‘Life on the edge’, a community living by the sea — the land, the sea and the people. At Avoca Street, the sign takes you back to 1909, when the new wharf was built.
Near Fyffe House, a sign details the early European settlement in Kaikōura and, at nearby Armers Beach, the story tells of the importance this site holds for the local community, both past and present, for the shelter it provides.
Near Point Kean car park, there are signs warning that seals are likely to be present in the surrounding area. Most of the seals in the car park are males. They may appear to be harmless – however they are capable