Whale watching wonder (Kaikoura)

Member Name: emma_ski

Product:	Kaikoura
Date:	08/06/09 (5 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Whales, dolphines, great transport

Disadvantages: none

i first went to Kaikoura from CHCH on the kiwi experience and stayed in a youth hostel on top of the hill, second time i went up on a shuttle bus from CHCH and stayed in a cheap hotel on the sea front. Both times a great experience!

I found it is a popular tourist destination, yet peacefully quiet and relaxed! There is a main street of shops in the town with a few tourist ones and a range of cafes, coffe shops and couple of restaurants.

The main attraction of Kaikoura is whale watching, sadly i went in winter and both times the boats were unabloe to go out due to bad weather. Howvere i have heard from fellow backpakcers (hence going twice) that the actualy trips are amazing and the whales are jaw dropping! Also the swimming with dolphion trip are suppose to be great too, with large groups of friendly dolphins swimming along the boat, within touching distance!

Along the coastline heading to or from Kaikoura, if u watch out for big tour buses pulled over, you will often be able to see sea lions in pools along the coast line :P

Summary: beautiful town to visit with great trip opportunities