View source for Kaikōura

{{Short description|Town in the South Island of New Zealand}}
{{About||the parliamentary electorate|Kaikōura (New Zealand electorate)|the island near Great Barrier Island, New Zealand|Kaikoura Island}}
{{Use New Zealand English|date=December 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2025}}
{{Infobox settlement
| name              = Kaikōura
| native_name       =
| native_name_lang  = mi
| settlement_type   = [[Urban areas of New Zealand|Minor urban area]]
| image_skyline     = Kaikōura seen from Kaikōura Peninsula.jpg
| image_alt         =
| image_caption     = Town of Kaikōura as seen from the peninsula
| nickname          =
| image_map         = {{infobox mapframe|coord={{coord|-42.40|173.68}}|zoom=10}}
| coordinates       = {{coord|-42.40|173.68|region:NZ-CAN|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type  = Country
| subdivision_name  = New Zealand
| subdivision_type1 = [[Regions of New Zealand|Region]]
| subdivision_name1 = [[Canterbury, New Zealand|Canterbury]]
| subdivision_type2 = [[Territorial authorities of New Zealand|Territorial authority]]
| subdivision_name2 = Kaikōura District
| seat_type         = [[New Zealand electorates|Electorates]]
| seat              = {{ubl|[[Kaikōura (New Zealand electorate)|Kaikōura]]|[[Te Tai Tonga]] ([[Māori electorates|Māori]])}}
| leader_title      = Territorial Authority
| leader_name       = [[Kaikōura District Council]]
| leader_title1     = [[Mayor of Kaikōura|Kaikōura District Mayor]]
| leader_name1      = {{NZ officeholder data|Kaikōura District Mayor|y}}
| leader_title2     = [[Kaikōura (New Zealand electorate)|Kaikōura MP]]
| leader_name2      = {{NZ officeholder data|Kaikōura MP|y}}
| leader_title3     = [[Te Tai Tonga|Te Tai Tonga MP]]
| leader_name3      = {{NZ officeholder data|Te Tai Tonga MP|y}}
| area_urban_km2    = 9.28
| area_blank1_title = District
| area_blank1_km2   = 2046.81
| population_footnotes = {{NZ population data 2018||||y}}
| population_as_of  = {{NZ population data 2018|||y}}
| population_urban  = {{NZ population data 2018|Kaikoura|y}}
| population_density_urban_km2 = auto
| population_blank1_title = District
| population_blank1 = {{NZ population data 2018|Kaikoura district|y}}
| population_density_blank1_km2 = auto
| postal_code_type  = District Postcode(s)
| postal_code       = [http://www.nzpost.co.nz/sites/default/files/uploads/shared/postcodemaps/kaikoura-district.pdf Map of postcodes]
| postal2_code_type = City Postcode
| postal2_code      = 7300
| website           = {{URL|https://www.kaikoura.co.nz/}}
}}

'''Kaikōura''' ({{IPAc-en|k|aɪ|ˈ|k|ɔː|r|ə}}; {{IPA|mi|kaiˈkoːuɾa|audio|Kaikōura Pronunciation.wav}}) is a town on the east coast of the [[South Island]] of New Zealand, located on [[New Zealand State Highway 1|State Highway 1]], {{convert|180|km}} north of [[Christchurch]]. The town has an estimated permanent resident population of {{NZ population data 2018|Kaikoura|y}} as of {{NZ population data 2018|||y}}.<ref name="NZ_population_data_2018" /> Kaikōura is the seat of the [[territorial authority]] of the [[Kaikōura District]], which is part of the [[Canterbury, New Zealand|Canterbury]] region.

Kaikōura was first inhabited by the [[Māori people|Māori]], with the [[Ngāi Tahu]] iwi occupying the area since at least 1670. Europeans began to settle in Kaikōura in the mid-1840s. By the 1850s, land that had been acquired was sold to European settlers, who most often started sheep farms in the area. [[Mount Fyffe]] in the [[Kaikōura Ranges|Seaward Kaikōura Range]] is named in honour of [[Robert Fyffe]] and his family, the first European settlers in the area.

The infrastructure of Kaikōura was heavily damaged in the [[2016 Kaikōura earthquake]], with one of the two deaths near the town. The bay and surrounding region were uplifted by as much as {{convert|2|m}}. In 2023, Kaikōura was named as one of the "most beautiful small towns in the world".<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 May 2023 |title=The 50 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the World |url=https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/most-beautiful-small-towns-in-the-world |access-date=12 May 2023 |website=Condé Nast Traveler |language=en-US |archive-date=12 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230512020101/https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/most-beautiful-small-towns-in-the-world |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Thornber |first=Lorna |date=9 May 2023 |title=Kaikōura named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/300874835/kaikura-named-one-of-the-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-the-world |access-date=12 May 2023 |website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en |archive-date=8 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908072910/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/300874835/kaikura-named-one-of-the-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-the-world |url-status=live }}</ref> Kaikōura is known for its biodiversity, a wide variety of marine mammals can be seen in the sea, including [[whale]]s and [[dolphin]]s.{{TOC limit|3}}

==History==

=== Early Māori history ===
[[Māori people|Māori]] have long been resident in Kaikōura, and archaeological evidence of [[moa]] bones indicates that they hunted moa there. After the moa numbers declined, Kaikōura was still an attractive place to live because of its abundance of seafood. The [[Ngāi Tahu]] ''[[iwi]]'' have been resident in the Kaikōura area since at least 1670.<ref name="McAloon-1998" /> Numerous [[pā]] sites are located around Kaikōura. The numbers vary between 14 and 40.<ref name="Kaikoura District Plan">{{Cite web|title=Kaikoura District Plan – 14/12/2010|url=https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/assets/Docs/Council/Publications/District-Plan/101214-26-appendix.pdf|url-status=live|access-date=6 April 2021|archive-date=2 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210202061600/https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/assets/Docs/Council/Publications/District-Plan/101214-26-appendix.pdf}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Solomon|first=R|date=2014|title=An overview of sensitive areas in Kaikoura in response to an application for a global Archaeological Authority by Chorus Ltd|url=https://ngaitahu.iwi.nz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/An-overview-of-sensitive-areas-in-Kaikoura.pdf|url-status=live|access-date=6 April 2021|archive-date=29 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180129212801/http://ngaitahu.iwi.nz/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/An-overview-of-sensitive-areas-in-Kaikoura.pdf}}</ref>

[[James Cook|Captain James Cook]] saw Kaikōura in 1770 but did not land there. He reported seeing four double-hulled canoes approaching [[HMS Endeavour|HMS ''Endeavour'']] containing 57 Māori.<ref name="Lonely Planet">{{Cite web|title=History of Kaikoura – Lonely Planet Travel Information|url=https://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/marlborough-and-nelson/kaikoura/history|access-date=3 April 2021|website=www.lonelyplanet.com|archive-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222101947/http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/marlborough-and-nelson/kaikoura/history|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="New Zealand Geographic">{{Cite journal|last=Grzelewski |first=Derek |title=The town that whales built|issue=58|url=https://www.nzgeo.com/stories/the-town-that-whales-built/|date=Jul–Aug 2002|journal=[[New Zealand Geographic]]|language=en-NZ|archive-date=24 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624210344/https://www.nzgeo.com/stories/the-town-that-whales-built/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1827–1828, Kaikōura was the site of the battle of Niho Maaka, between musket-armed [[Ngāti Toa]] (led by [[Te Rauparaha]]) and the [[Ngāti Kurī]] people of Ngāi Tahu. Several hundred [[Ngāi Tahu]] were killed or captured.<ref name="Lonely Planet" /> Ngāi Tahu were surprised by the Ngāti Toa raiding party, as they were expecting a visit from the [[Ngāti Kahungunu]] sub-tribe Tū-te-pākihi-rangi, with whom they were friends.<ref name="McAloon-1998" /> Only those Ngāti Kurī who fled to the hills survived. The name of the battle comes from a threat made by Rerewaka, one of the Kaikōura chiefs, who said he would slit Te Rauparaha's belly with a [[shark tooth]] ({{lang|mi|niho maaka}}) if he came south.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Tau |first=Te Maire |title=Māori Peoples of New Zealand |publisher=David Bateman |year=2006 |isbn=978-1-86953-622-0 |location=Wellington |pages=127 |chapter=Ngāi Tahu}}</ref>

=== Whaling stations ===
A whaling station was first established by [[Robert Fyffe]] in 1842 at Kaikōura. The Fyffe family was the first European family to settle in Kaikōura. John Guard and his family joined Fyffe sometime between 1844 and 1846. 40 men were employed at the whaling station initially. In 1845, he purchased a second whaling station at South Bay. This second whaling station (Fyffe's Village) became the commercial centre of Kaikōura until 1867. Fyffe diversified into shipping and farming due to the decline in whale numbers.<ref>{{DNZB|title=Alexander Robert Fyffe|first= Don|last= Grady|id=1f21|access-date=6 April 2021}}</ref> The ''[[Marlborough Express]]'' newspaper commented in 1866 that "whales seemed to have abandoned coming to Kaikōura".<ref name="New Zealand Geographic" /> The whaling stations continued until 1922.<ref name="Lonely Planet" />

[[Mount Fyffe]] owes its name to the Fyffe family. The cottage where the Fyffe family lived, built in 1842, still stands. The area surrounding the house, including Avoca Point, has been listed as a Historic Area by [[Heritage New Zealand]]. The construction of the cottage is unusual in that the supporting foundations of the house are made of [[Baleen|whalebone]].<ref>{{NZHPT|7430| Fyffe Historic Area|9 June 2024}}</ref>

=== European settlement ===
The New Zealand government purchased land north of Kaikōura from Ngāti Toa in 1847. This was challenged by Ngāi Tahu, who said that Ngāti Toa had no right to sell land that did not belong to them. In 1857, the New Zealand Government made an offer for land between the [[Ashley River / Rakahuri|Ashley]] and [[Waiau Uwha River|Waiau Uwha]] rivers for 200 pounds, which was signed by Ngāi Tahu. Other land deals were completed in the area, leaving small reserves for local Māori. These reserves were reduced after 1900 when the New Zealand government compulsorily acquired further land for the [[Main North Line, New Zealand|proposed railway]] and "scenic" purposes.<ref name="McAloon-1998" />

From the 1850s, land that had been acquired was sold to European settlers who most often started sheep farms in the area. Many small blocks were sold around the [[Kaikōura Peninsula]] and in the 1870s, roads and bridges were built. A small wharf was completed in 1863. The [[Inland Kaikōura Road]] to [[Rotherham, New Zealand|Rotherham]] was completed by 1888. The road that became [[State Highway 1 (New Zealand)|State Highway 1]] was started in the 1890s across the [[Hundalee Hills]] with bridges across the rivers completed in 1914.<ref name="McAloon-1998" />  From around 1900, a total of 59 [[Araucaria heterophylla|Norfolk pines]] were planted along the Esplanade. These trees now have "protected trees" status from the Kaikōura District Council.<ref name="Kaikoura District Plan" />

=== 20th century ===
The population increased as a result of the extensive works required to build the railway in 1935. In December 1945, the Christchurch to [[Picton, New Zealand|Picton]] railway line was officially opened at Kaikōura. 5,000 people came out to celebrate the occasion.<ref name="NZHistory">{{Cite web|title=Kaikoura {{!}} NZHistory, New Zealand history online|url=https://nzhistory.govt.nz/keyword/kaikoura|access-date=3 April 2021|website=nzhistory.govt.nz|archive-date=13 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200813111729/https://www.nzhistory.govt.nz/keyword/kaikoura|url-status=live}}</ref> The population fell slightly after the railway was completed.<ref name="McAloon-1998">{{cite book |last1=McAloon |first1=Jim |last2=Simmons |first2=David |last3=Fairweather |first3=John |title=Kaikoura: historical background |date=September 1998 |publisher=Lincoln University. Tourism Research and Education Centre. |hdl=10182/105}}</ref>  In 1962 the [[roll-on/roll-off]] car ferry between [[Wellington]] and [[Picton, New Zealand|Picton]] increased travel between the North and South Islands, bringing more visitors to Kaikōura.<ref name="NZHistory" /><ref>{{Cite web|publisher=New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage Te Manatu|title=Kaikōura coast|url=https://teara.govt.nz/en/marlborough-places/page-10|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Te Ara: The Encyclopedia of New Zealand]] |language=en|archive-date=1 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301072719/https://teara.govt.nz/en/marlborough-places/page-10|url-status=live}}</ref> There was only one motel (with 40 beds) before 1962.<ref name="McAloon-1998" />

Between 1945 and 1960, over-fishing led to a decline in the numbers of crayfish ([[spiny lobster]]s).<ref name="McAloon-1998" /> By 1975, the decline in crayfish numbers had extended to other fish species. In 1975, 97 registered fishing vessels were operating out of Kaikōura.<ref name="McAloon-1998" /> There are reports that between 1963 and 1964, 248 [[sperm whale]]s in Kaikoura waters were killed during the last of the whaling activity in New Zealand.<ref name="New Zealand Geographic" />

Kaikōura struggled economically during the 1970s. In 1975, there were 304 motel beds and a further 500 campground beds and hotel beds. The Marlborough Regional Development Council noted that there was investment in accommodation but not in tourist attractions at this time.<ref name="McAloon-1998" /> The restructuring of the economy following the election of the [[Fourth Labour Government of New Zealand|Labour government in 1984]] also affected Kaikōura adversely. Farm incomes dropped. Public sector employment was affected badly. There were 170 jobs lost in a town of 3,000.<ref name="McAloon-1998" />

In 1985, a group of local Kaikōura people established a tourist centre and began promoting Kaikōura as a tourist destination. The focus at that stage was on the walking opportunities and the scenery.<ref name="McAloon-1998" /> [[Whale watching in New Zealand|Whale-watching]] was established as a tourist venture in Kaikōura in 1987. Local Māori leaders were concerned about local unemployment, and mortgaged their houses to buy a {{convert|6.7|m}} boat to start up a whale watching business to see the local sperm whales. In the first year of business, 3,000 tourists took the opportunity to see whales. This has greatly expanded to more than 100,000 per annum.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Whale Watch Kaikoura Our Story|url=https://www.whalewatch.co.nz/assets/Trade/Whale-Watch-Kaikoura-Our-Story.pdf|url-status=dead|access-date=3 April 2021|archive-date=12 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012193258/https://www.whalewatch.co.nz/assets/Trade/Whale-Watch-Kaikoura-Our-Story.pdf}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=NZ eco-tourism: Whale Watch Kaikoura|url=https://media.newzealand.com/en/story-ideas/nz-eco-tourism-whale-watch-kaikoura/|access-date=3 April 2021|website=TNZ Media|archive-date=25 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225213539/https://media.newzealand.com/en/story-ideas/nz-eco-tourism-whale-watch-kaikoura/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="New Zealand Geographic" />

=== 2016 Kaikōura earthquake ===
{{main|2016 Kaikōura earthquake}}
On 14 November 2016, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the [[South Island]] just after midnight. It left two people dead (one near the town and one in the adjacent [[Hurunui District]]) and triggered a small tsunami. One thousand tourists and hundreds of residents were stranded in Kaikōura after the earthquake cut off train and vehicle access.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/new-zealand-quake-rescue-1.3849599 |title=Hundreds of tourists stranded by New Zealand quake rescued by helicopter – World – CBC News |website=Cbc.ca |access-date=29 March 2017 |archive-date=10 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170510105450/http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/new-zealand-quake-rescue-1.3849599 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11748814|title=Live updates following Monday's 7.8 earthquake: A picture of devastation|date=16 November 2016|work=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|language=en-NZ|issn=1170-0777|access-date=17 November 2016|archive-date=28 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328010357/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11748814|url-status=live}}</ref> New Zealand Air Force helicopters ferried many people out of Kaikoura initially<ref>{{Cite news|date=15 November 2016|title=New Zealand earthquake: Kaikoura evacuations under way|language=en-GB|work=[[BBC News]] |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-37982395|access-date=3 April 2021|archive-date=23 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123000506/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-37982395|url-status=live}}</ref> with the New Zealand navy sending [[HMNZS Canterbury (L421)|HMNZS ''Canterbury'']] to ferry many hundreds of tourists out.<ref>{{Cite news|date=15 November 2016|title=Largest navy ship leaves Auckland to assist with earthquake rescue|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/nz-earthquake/86491320/largest-navy-frigate-leaves-auckland-to-assist-with-earthquake-rescue|access-date=3 April 2021|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=24 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624204446/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/nz-earthquake/86491320/largest-navy-frigate-leaves-auckland-to-assist-with-earthquake-rescue|url-status=live}}</ref>

1700 construction workers completed two million man-hours to repair the quake-damaged route along State Highway 1 after the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake. It reopened on 15 December 2017.<ref>{{Cite news|date=20 December 2018|title=State Highway 1 rebuild along Kaikōura coast two-thirds complete|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/109158069/sh1-rebuild-twothirds-complete|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=9 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309204406/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/109158069/sh1-rebuild-twothirds-complete|url-status=live}}</ref> The repairs included fixing almost {{convert|200|km}} of damaged road and a similar length of railway line. The repairs cost NZ$1.1 billion.<ref>{{Cite news|date=18 September 2018|title=Kaikōura road and rail rebuild up against fantastic feats of engineering|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/107130276/kaikura-road-and-rail-rebuild-up-against-fantastic-feats-of-engineering|access-date=3 April 2021|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=9 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109032030/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/107130276/kaikura-road-and-rail-rebuild-up-against-fantastic-feats-of-engineering|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Geography==
[[File:Diving sperm whale near Kaikoura.jpg|thumb| [[Sperm whale]] with the [[Kaikōura Ranges|Kaikōura mountain range]] in the distance]]
The stretch of coastline stretching roughly between the mouths of the [[Conway River (New Zealand)|Conway]] and [[Waiau Toa / Clarence River]]s is generally known as the Kaikōura coast. This coast is unusual for the South Island east coast, as there is very little coastal plain, with the [[Kaikōura Ranges|Seaward Kaikōura Range]], a branch of the [[Southern Alps]], rising straight from the ocean.

The town of Kaikōura has the Seaward Kaikōuras as a backdrop. One of the walking tracks for visitors is the Mount Fyffe track, which winds up Mount Fyffe and gives a panoramic view of the Kaikōura peninsula from the summit.

The Kaikōura Peninsula extends into the sea south of the town, and the resulting upwelling currents bring an abundance of marine life from the depths of the nearby  [[Kaikōura Canyon]]. The town owes its origin to this effect, since it developed as a centre for the [[whaling]] industry.  The name ''Kaikōura'' means 'meal of [[Jasus edwardsii|crayfish]]' (''kai'' – food/meal, ''kōura'' – crayfish)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nzhistory.govt.nz/culture/maori-language-week/1000-maori-place-names|title=1000 Māori place names|publisher=New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage|date=6 August 2019|access-date=2 September 2019|archive-date=6 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200106171905/https://nzhistory.govt.nz/culture/maori-language-week/1000-maori-place-names|url-status=live}}</ref> and the crayfish industry still plays a role in the economy of the region. However, Kaikōura has now become a popular [[tourism|tourist]] destination, mainly for whale watching and swimming with or near [[dolphin]]s.

===Climate===

{{Weather box|width=auto
|metric first=y
|single line=y 
|location = Kaikōura (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1963–present)
| Jan record high C = 33.3
| Feb record high C = 34.3
| Mar record high C = 32.6
| Apr record high C = 28.8
| May record high C = 25.8
| Jun record high C = 24.8
| Jul record high C = 22.3
| Aug record high C = 23.5
| Sep record high C = 25.5
| Oct record high C = 31.8
| Nov record high C = 32.8
| Dec record high C = 33.2
| year record high C = 
|Jan high C = 	20.3
|Feb high C = 	20.2
|Mar high C = 	18.7
|Apr high C = 	16.2
|May high C = 	14.5
|Jun high C = 	12.1
|Jul high C = 	11.2
|Aug high C = 	11.9
|Sep high C = 	13.8
|Oct high C = 	15.5
|Nov high C = 	17.0
|Dec high C = 	19.1
| year high C = 	
|Jan mean C = 	16.6
|Feb mean C = 	16.7
|Mar mean C = 	15.3
|Apr mean C = 	13.1
|May mean C = 	11.4
|Jun mean C = 	9.2
|Jul mean C = 	8.4
|Aug mean C = 	9.0
|Sep mean C = 	10.5
|Oct mean C = 	11.9
|Nov mean C = 	13.4
|Dec mean C = 	15.4
| year mean C = 	
|Jan low C = 	12.9
|Feb low C = 	13.1
|Mar low C = 	11.9
|Apr low C = 	10.0
|May low C = 	8.3
|Jun low C = 	6.3
|Jul low C = 	5.6
|Aug low C = 	6.0
|Sep low C = 	7.1
|Oct low C = 	8.2
|Nov low C = 	9.7
|Dec low C = 	11.7
| year low C = 	
|Jan record low C  = 5.0
|Feb record low C  = 5.5
|Mar record low C  = 3.5
|Apr record low C  = 2.2
|May record low C  =  1.1
|Jun record low C  = -0.6
|Jul record low C  = -0.6
|Aug record low C  = -1.0
|Sep record low C  = 0.5
|Oct record low C  = -0.2
|Nov record low C  = 2.0
|Dec record low C  = 3.9
|year record low C = 
|rain colour = green	
|Jan rain mm = 	47.4
|Feb rain mm = 	39.3
|Mar rain mm = 	66.1
|Apr rain mm = 	66.6
|May rain mm = 	51.0
|Jun rain mm = 	73.0
|Jul rain mm = 	86.5
|Aug rain mm = 	59.1
|Sep rain mm = 	53.6
|Oct rain mm = 	64.4
|Nov rain mm = 	58.8
|Dec rain mm = 	49.3
|year rain mm = 	
| Jan rain days = 	6.6
| Feb rain days = 	5.7
| Mar rain days = 	6.6
| Apr rain days = 	7.1
| May rain days = 	6.3
| Jun rain days = 	8.1
| Jul rain days = 	7.9
| Aug rain days = 	6.7
| Sep rain days = 	6.4
| Oct rain days = 	8.1
| Nov rain days = 	7.0
| Dec rain days = 	7.3
| unit rain days = 1.0 mm	
| Jan humidity = 	76.1
| Feb humidity = 	77.9
| Mar humidity = 	76.3
| Apr humidity = 	74.9
| May humidity = 	71.7
| Jun humidity = 	71.0
| Jul humidity = 	70.9
| Aug humidity = 	71.1
| Sep humidity = 	69.5
| Oct humidity = 	73.2
| Nov humidity = 	72.7
| Dec humidity = 	75.6
| Jan sun  =252.5
| Feb sun  =190.6
| Mar sun  =173.4
| Apr sun  =178.0
| May sun  =144.4
| Jun sun  =112.8
| Jul sun  =135.7
| Aug sun  =147.9
| Sep sun  =175.7
| Oct sun  =187.4
| Nov sun  =188.1
| Dec sun  =213.4
| year sun = 	
|source 1 = NIWA Climate Data (sunshine 1981–2010)<ref>{{cite web
|url = https://cliflo.niwa.co.nz/
|title = CliFlo -The National Climate Database (Agent numbers: 4506, 4507)
|publisher = NIWA
|access-date = 26 Nov 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
|url = https://niwa.co.nz/climate-and-weather/monthly
|title = Monthly climate summaries from December 2001 to the present.
|publisher = NIWA
|access-date = 8 Nov 2025}}</ref>
}}

{{Weather box|width=auto
|metric first=y
|single line=y 
|collapsed = Y
|location = Middle Creek, Kaikōura (1991–2020) 
| Jan high C  = 21.3
| Feb high C  = 21.1
| Mar high C  = 18.7
| Apr high C  = 16.8
| May high C  = 15.0
| Jun high C  = 12.0
| Jul high C  = 11.9
| Aug high C  = 12.4
| Sep high C  = 14.4
| Oct high C  = 16.0
| Nov high C  = 18.0
| Dec high C  = 19.7
| year high C = 
| Jan mean C  = 16.0
| Feb mean C  = 15.8
| Mar mean C  = 13.7
| Apr mean C  = 11.5
| May mean C  = 9.6
| Jun mean C  = 7.3
| Jul mean C  = 6.6
| Aug mean C  = 7.3
| Sep mean C  = 9.3
| Oct mean C  = 10.4
| Nov mean C  = 12.6
| Dec mean C  = 14.6
| year mean C = 
| Jan low C  = 10.7
| Feb low C  = 10.5
| Mar low C  = 8.7
| Apr low C  = 6.2
| May low C  = 4.2
| Jun low C  = 2.7
| Jul low C  = 1.3
| Aug low C  = 2.1
| Sep low C  = 4.1
| Oct low C  = 4.9
| Nov low C  = 7.1
| Dec low C  = 9.5
| year low C = 
|rain colour = green	
|Jan rain mm = 45.7
|Feb rain mm = 59.2
|Mar rain mm = 75.3
|Apr rain mm = 63.7
|May rain mm = 67.0
|Jun rain mm = 80.7
|Jul rain mm = 99.0
|Aug rain mm = 75.5
|Sep rain mm = 64.5
|Oct rain mm = 75.7
|Nov rain mm = 69.4
|Dec rain mm = 57.5
|year rain mm =
|source 1 = NIWA (rainfall 1981–2010)<ref>{{cite web
|url = https://data.niwa.co.nz/
|title = NIWA Datahub (Agent number: 4997, 41125)
|publisher = NIWA
|access-date = 26 November 2024}}</ref>
}}

==Governance==
The town is the seat of the [[territorial authority]] of the [[Kaikōura District]], which is part of the [[Canterbury, New Zealand|Canterbury]] region.<ref>{{cite web |title=District Plan – Introduction |url=http://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/docs/Council%20Documents/District%20Plan/01_introduction.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208234004/http://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/docs/Council%20Documents/District%20Plan/01_introduction.pdf |archive-date=8 February 2013 |access-date=12 December 2012}}</ref> Local governance for Kaikōura is provided by the [[Kaikōura District Council]] (Ko te kaunihera ā rohe o Kaikōura). The council consists of a [[Mayor of Kaikōura|mayor]] and seven councillors. Elections for positions on the council are held every three years in conjunction with [[Local elections in New Zealand|nationwide local elections]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mayor and Councillors|url=https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/our-council/mayor-and-councillors/|url-status=live|access-date=30 September 2021|website=Kaikoura District Council|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065552/https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/our-council/mayor-and-councillors/}}</ref> Kaikōura was the first local authority in the Southern Hemisphere to achieve recognition by the [[EarthCheck]] Community Standard.<ref>{{cite web |title=Green Globe |url=http://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/green_globe/index.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080321234346/http://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/green_globe/index.htm |archive-date=21 March 2008 |access-date=14 March 2008 |publisher=Kaikoura District Council}}</ref> 

For national elections, Kaikōura is part of the [[Kaikōura (New Zealand electorate)|Kaikōura electorate]]. [[Stuart Smith (politician)|Stuart Smith]] of the National Party was the current member of parliament after the 2020 election.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kaikōura – Electorate Profile – New Zealand Parliament|url=https://www.parliament.nz/en/mps-and-electorates/electorate-profiles/kaik%25C5%258Dura-electorate-profile/|access-date=10 February 2022|website=www.parliament.nz|language=en}}</ref>

==Demographics==
Kaikōura is defined by Statistics New Zealand as a small urban area and covers {{Convert|9.28|km2||abbr=on}}.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ArcGIS Web Application|url=https://statsnz.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=6f49867abe464f86ac7526552fe19787|access-date=29 April 2024|website=statsnz.maps.arcgis.com|archive-date=14 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210214063818/https://statsnz.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=6f49867abe464f86ac7526552fe19787|url-status=live}}</ref> It had an estimated population of {{NZ population data 2018|Kaikoura|y}} as of {{NZ population data 2018|||y|y||,}} with a population density of {{Decimals|{{formatnum:{{NZ population data 2018|Kaikoura|y}}|R}}/9.28|0}} people per km<sup>2</sup>.

{{Historical populations|2006|2,202|2013|2,010|2018|2,223|percentages=pagr|align=left|source=<ref name="Census 2018"/>}}
Kaikōura had a population of 2,223 at the [[2018 New Zealand census]], an increase of 213 people (10.6%) since the [[2013 New Zealand census|2013 census]], and an increase of 21 people (1.0%) since the [[2006 New Zealand census|2006 census]]. There were 873 households, comprising 1,107 males and 1,116 females, giving a sex ratio of 0.99 males per female. The median age was 47.7 years (compared with 37.4 years nationally), with 318 people (14.3%) aged under 15 years, 354 (15.9%) aged 15 to 29, 981 (44.1%) aged 30 to 64, and 573 (25.8%) aged 65 or older.

Ethnicities were 83.3% European/[[Pākehā]], 19.6% [[Māori people|Māori]], 0.8% [[Pasifika New Zealanders|Pasifika]], 5.0% [[Asian New Zealanders|Asian]], and 3.1% other ethnicities. People may identify with more than one ethnicity.

The percentage of people born overseas was 18.2, compared with 27.1% nationally.

Although some people chose not to answer the census's question about religious affiliation, 48.2% had no religion, 40.6% were [[Christianity in New Zealand|Christian]], 1.3% had [[Religion of Māori people|Māori religious beliefs]], 0.3% were [[Hinduism in New Zealand|Hindu]], 0.3% were [[Islam in New Zealand|Muslim]], 0.5% were [[Buddhism in New Zealand|Buddhist]] and 2.0% had other religions.

Of those at least 15 years old, 231 (12.1%) people had a bachelor's or higher degree, and 447 (23.5%) people had no formal qualifications. The median income was $30,200, compared with $31,800 nationally. 189 people (9.9%) earned over $70,000 compared to 17.2% nationally. The employment status of those at least 15 was that 969 (50.9%) people were employed full-time, 315 (16.5%) were part-time, and 30 (1.6%) were unemployed.<ref name="Census 2018">{{NZ census 2018|Kaikōura (308900)|kaikoura|Kaikōura}}</ref>

==Economy==
{{further|Kaikōura District}}

In 2020, the [[GDP]] of the Kaikōura District was $232 million, with an annual growth for the region of 1.6%.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kaikoura District Economic Profile – Economy at a glance |url=https://ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/kaikoura%20district/Gdp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921222326/https://ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/kaikoura%20district/Gdp |archive-date=21 September 2021 |access-date=22 September 2021 |publisher=Infometrics}}</ref> Tourism is a major contributor to the economy of the district. There was a significant downturn in visitors caused by the 2016 earthquake, with the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] creating a further impact in 2020–21. However, by 2024, tourism and economic activity in the town had rebounded.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 January 2024 |title=Kaikōura 'absolutely pumping' after quake and Covid-19 challenges |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/506344/kaikoura-absolutely-pumping-after-quake-and-covid-19-challenges |access-date=9 June 2024 |website=[[RNZ]] |language=en-nz |archive-date=8 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908072845/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/506344/kaikoura-absolutely-pumping-after-quake-and-covid-19-challenges |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Rutledge |first=Daniel |date=31 May 2024 |title=The NZ town booming in popularity as a getaway destination this King's Birthday weekend |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/travel/2024/05/kaik-ura-booming-in-popularity-as-king-s-birthday-weekend-getaway-destination.html |access-date=9 June 2024 |work=[[Newshub]] |language=en |archive-date=8 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908072852/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/travel/2024/05/kaik-ura-booming-in-popularity-as-king-s-birthday-weekend-getaway-destination.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> 

Tourism contributed $57 million to total GDP in Kaikoura District in 2020, and was the top overall category, contributing 24.8% of district GDP.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kaikoura District Economic Profile – Tourism GDP |url=https://ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/kaikoura%20district/Tourism/TourismGdp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921223551/https://ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/kaikoura%20district/Tourism/TourismGdp |archive-date=21 September 2021 |access-date=22 September 2021 |publisher=Infometrics}}</ref> In 2023, tourism provided 27.6% of jobs in Kaikōura District in 2023, with accommodation and food services representing another 18.5%.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023 |title=Kaikoura District Economic Profile:Tourism Employment |url=https://ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/kaikoura%20district/Tourism/TourismEmployment |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210620152728/https://ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/kaikoura%20district/Tourism/TourismEmployment |archive-date=20 June 2021 |access-date=9 June 2024}}</ref>

In addition to [[ecotourism]] activities in the town, such as whale, seal, and bird watching, further tourism opportunities are under development. These include astrotourism, following the accreditation of the Kaikōura District as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary,<ref name="Allen2">{{Cite web |last=Allen |first=Ian |date=12 September 2024 |title=Kaikōura, the world's newest Dark Sky Sanctuary |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/350410810/kaikoura-worlds-newest-dark-sky-sanctuary |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913015019/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/350410810/kaikoura-worlds-newest-dark-sky-sanctuary |archive-date=13 September 2024 |access-date=13 September 2024 |website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]]}}</ref> and the construction of a long-distance trail from Picton to Kaikōura known as the [[Whale Trail (New Zealand)|Whale Trail]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hill |first=David |date=6 June 2024 |title=Whale Trail set to boost Kaikōura's cycle tourism |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/350302162/whale-trail-set-boost-kaikouras-cycle-tourism |access-date=9 June 2024 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |archive-date=8 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908072846/https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/350302162/whale-trail-set-boost-kaikouras-cycle-tourism |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Culture==
In [[Māori mythology]], Kaikōura Peninsula (Te Taumanu-o-te-waka-a-Māui) was the seat where [[Māui]] sat when he fished the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) up from the depths of the sea.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Royal|first=Te Ahukaramū Charles|date=12 June 2006|title=Whenua – how the land was shaped – The North and South Islands|url=https://teara.govt.nz/en/whenua-how-the-land-was-shaped/page-2|url-status=live|access-date=21 September 2021|website=Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921080816/https://teara.govt.nz/en/whenua-how-the-land-was-shaped/page-2}}</ref>

The [[tangata whenua]] of Kaikōura and all of the Kaikōura District are [[Ngāi Tahu|Te Runanga o Ngāi Tahu]], and they hold customary tribal authority over this entire area ([[rohe]]).<ref>{{Cite web|date=1 January 2007|title=Tangata Whenua Values|url=https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/assets/Docs/Council/Publications/District-Plan/05-tangata-whenua-values.pdf|url-status=live|access-date=21 September 2021|website=Kaikoura District Council|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921085738/https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/assets/Docs/Council/Publications/District-Plan/05-tangata-whenua-values.pdf}}</ref> Takahanga Marae, a ''[[marae]]'' (tribal meeting ground) of Ngāi Tahu and its ''Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura'' branch, is located in Kaikōura.  The current marae building was opened in 2001. It includes the Maru Kaitatea ''[[wharenui]]'' (meeting house).<ref>{{cite web|title=Te Kāhui Māngai directory|url=http://www.tkm.govt.nz/|website=tkm.govt.nz|publisher=[[Te Puni Kōkiri]]|access-date=22 June 2018|archive-date=18 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200118064630/http://www.tkm.govt.nz/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Māori Maps |url=https://maorimaps.com/map |website=maorimaps.com |publisher=Te Potiki National Trust |access-date=22 June 2018 |archive-date=22 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190122131749/https://maorimaps.com/map |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Cliff Whiting]] was one of many Māori and Pākehā artists who contributed carving and artworks for the wharenui.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Graham|first=Brett|date=22 October 2014|title=Whakairo – Māori carving: Page 7. Carving in urban environments|url=https://teara.govt.nz/en/whakairo-maori-carving/page-7|url-status=live|access-date=21 September 2021|website=[[Te Ara: The Encyclopedia of New Zealand]] |archive-date=17 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417052020/https://teara.govt.nz/en/whakairo-maori-carving/page-7}}</ref>

== Biodiversity ==
The economy of the town now has a significant reliance on the visitors who come to experience the [[biodiversity]] of the local region, particularly the ocean. The [[Kaikōura Peninsula#Kaikōura Canyon|Kaikōura canyon]] is a [[submarine canyon]] located southwest of the Kaikōura Peninsula.  It is a southern branch of the [[Hikurangi Trough]] that extends northwards up the New Zealand east coast. The canyon has been described as a "bio-diversity hotspot", where upwelling of currents from the deep ocean provide feeding grounds along the Kaikōura coast for a diverse range of [[seabird]]s and [[marine mammal]]s.<ref>{{Cite web|date=4 April 2011|title=Kaikoura Canyon survey|url=https://niwa.co.nz/coasts-and-oceans/research-projects/kaikoura-canyon|url-status=live|access-date=15 September 2021|website=NIWA – Taihoro Nukurangi|archive-date=24 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211224224747/https://niwa.co.nz/coasts-and-oceans/research-projects/kaikoura-canyon}}</ref><ref name="Fitzgerald">{{Cite web|last=Fitzgerald|first=Neil|title=Kaikoura|url=https://www.birdingnz.net/articles/2012/kaikoura/|url-status=live|access-date=15 September 2021|website=BirdingNZ|archive-date=14 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210914220803/https://www.birdingnz.net/articles/2012/kaikoura/}}</ref>

An incorporated society, Te Korowai o Te Tai o Marokura, Kaikōura Coastal Marine Guardians (Te Korowai), was formed in 2005 to develop use and protection strategies and actions for the Kaikōura coast.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Te Korowai o Te Tai o Marokura, Kaikōura Coastal Marine Guardians|url=https://www.nzbn.govt.nz/mynzbn/nzbndetails/9429043091768?sw=9429043091768|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220107202231/https://www.nzbn.govt.nz/mynzbn/nzbndetails/9429043091768?sw=9429043091768|archive-date=7 January 2022|access-date=8 January 2022|website=NZBN}}</ref>  The work of the society led to the passing of the Kaikōura (Te Tai o Marokura) Marine Management Act in August 2014.<ref>{{Cite web|title=What we do|url=https://www.teamkorowai.org.nz/what-we-do|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220107202227/https://www.teamkorowai.org.nz/what-we-do|archive-date=7 January 2022|access-date=8 January 2022|website=Te Korowai o Te Tai ō Marokura}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Warne|first=Kennedy|date=November–December 2014|title=Sea Change|url=https://www.nzgeo.com/stories/sea-change/|url-status=live|journal=New Zealand Geographic|issue=130|url-access=subscription|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220107202248/https://www.nzgeo.com/stories/sea-change/|archive-date=7 January 2022|access-date=8 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=17 March 2014|title=New marine protected areas for Kaikōura|url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-marine-protected-areas-kaikoura|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828110101/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-marine-protected-areas-kaikoura|archive-date=28 August 2021|access-date=4 October 2021|website=New Zealand Government}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Morton|first=Jamie|date=16 March 2014|title=New marine reserves, sanctuaries announced to protect Kaikōura's wildlife|work=[[New Zealand Herald]] |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/new-marine-reserves-sanctuaries-announced-to-protect-kaikouras-wildlife/TPPKZVMINO5FN6ESRVDOZNWSTM/|url-status=live|access-date=4 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211003204549/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/new-marine-reserves-sanctuaries-announced-to-protect-kaikouras-wildlife/TPPKZVMINO5FN6ESRVDOZNWSTM/|archive-date=3 October 2021}}</ref> This Act established the Kaikōura marine management area, including a [[Hikurangi Marine Reserve|new marine reserve]], sanctuaries and protections for whales and fur seals, and established new fishing regulations. It also recognised [[Kaitiaki|taiapure]] (traditional Māori fishing grounds which include areas of special cultural or spiritual significance).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kaikōura/Te Tai-o-Marokura marine management|url=https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/habitats/marine/kaikoura-te-tai-o-marokura-marine-management-area/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210925225359/https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/habitats/marine/kaikoura-te-tai-o-marokura-marine-management-area/|archive-date=25 September 2021|access-date=25 September 2021|publisher=Department of Conservation|language=en-nz}}</ref>

===Hikurangi Marine Reserve===
{{main|Hikurangi Marine Reserve}}

The Hikurangi Marine Reserve is a [[marine reserve]] off the Kaikōura coast, covering an area of {{convert|10,416 |ha}} south of the township, and including part of the Kaikōura canyon.  The reserve was established in 2014 and is the largest and deepest marine reserve adjacent to any of New Zealand's three main islands. No fishing, harvesting, or mining is allowed in the reserve.<ref>{{cite news |date=17 March 2014 |title=New marine protected areas for Kaikoura |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-marine-protected-areas-kaikoura |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828110101/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-marine-protected-areas-kaikoura |archive-date=28 August 2021 |access-date=20 September 2021 |publisher=[[New Zealand Government]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Graney |first1=Brigid |date=15 July 2016 |title=Counting what lies beneath the waves at Kaikoura's Hikurangi Marine Reserve |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/82151704/counting-what-lies-beneath-the-waves-at-kaikouras-hikurangi-marine-reserve |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828110344/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/82151704/counting-what-lies-beneath-the-waves-at-kaikouras-hikurangi-marine-reserve |archive-date=28 August 2021 |access-date=20 September 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] }}</ref><ref name="Hikurangi Marine Reserve">{{cite web |title=Hikurangi Marine Reserve |url=https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/marlborough/places/hikurangi-marine-reserve/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828111605/https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/marlborough/places/hikurangi-marine-reserve/ |archive-date=28 August 2021 |access-date=20 September 2021 |website=doc.govt.nz |publisher=[[New Zealand Department of Conservation|Department of Conservation]]}}</ref>

=== Kaikōura whale sanctuary ===
The Kaikōura (Te Tai o Marokura) Marine Management Act 2014 established the Te Rohe o Te Whānau Puha Whale Sanctuary covering {{convert|4686|km2}}, and extending {{convert|45|km}} north and south of the Kaikōura peninsula and {{convert|56|km}} out to sea, to provide additional protection for marine mammals in this area.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 March 2014 |title=New marine protected areas for Kaikoura |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-marine-protected-areas-kaikoura |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828110101/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-marine-protected-areas-kaikoura |archive-date=28 August 2021 |access-date=4 October 2021 |website=New Zealand Government}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Morton |first=Jamie |date=16 March 2014 |title=New marine reserves, sanctuaries announced to protect Kaikoura's wildlife |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/new-marine-reserves-sanctuaries-announced-to-protect-kaikouras-wildlife/TPPKZVMINO5FN6ESRVDOZNWSTM/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211003204549/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/new-marine-reserves-sanctuaries-announced-to-protect-kaikouras-wildlife/TPPKZVMINO5FN6ESRVDOZNWSTM/ |archive-date=3 October 2021 |access-date=4 October 2021 |work=[[New Zealand Herald]] }}</ref>

=== Marine mammals ===
A wide variety of marine mammals can be seen in the Kaikōura region, including whales, dolphins, and [[Arctocephalus forsteri|New Zealand fur seals]].<ref name="Hikurangi Marine Reserve" />  The [[Marine Mammals Protection Act|Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978]] provides legal protection for these animals, and regulations set conditions that govern human behaviour in the vicinity of marine mammals. Permits are required for commercial tourist operations associated with marine mammals.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sharing our coasts with marine mammals|url=https://www.doc.govt.nz/sharingcoasts|url-status=live|access-date=21 September 2021|website=Department of Conservation|archive-date=20 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920233355/https://www.doc.govt.nz/sharingcoasts}}</ref>

==== Whales ====
Whale watching is a popular tourist attraction in Kaikōura and is an important contributor to the local economy.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Holmes|first=Stephanie|date=22 June 2021|title=GO NZ Matariki special: Māori tourism operator Whale Watch Kaikōura|work=[[New Zealand Herald]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/nz/canterbury/125805237/the-magic-of-kaikoura-swimming-with-dolphins-stoic-optimism-and-cheese-scones|access-date=21 September 2021|archive-date=20 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920213800/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/nz/canterbury/125805237/the-magic-of-kaikoura-swimming-with-dolphins-stoic-optimism-and-cheese-scones|url-status=live}}</ref>  [[Sperm whale]]s can be observed all year, typically around 23&nbsp;km offshore, but sometimes closer to shore.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Nicoll|first=Jared|date=11 January 2012|title=Whales closer to shore|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/6240402/Whales-closer-to-shore|access-date=21 September 2021|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921100112/https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/6240402/Whales-closer-to-shore|url-status=live}}</ref>  [[Humpback whale]]s are often seen in June and July during their winter migration, and [[Killer whale|orca]] can be seen from December to March.<ref>{{Cite news|date=20 April 2021|title=GO NZ: Where to see kiwi, seals, dolphins, whales and more in the wild|work=[[New Zealand Herald]] |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/go-nz-where-to-see-kiwi-seals-dolphins-whales-and-more-in-the-wild/VQQZ2EYCBJXG76I5UMGIJPPMNM/|access-date=21 September 2021|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921113343/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/go-nz-where-to-see-kiwi-seals-dolphins-whales-and-more-in-the-wild/VQQZ2EYCBJXG76I5UMGIJPPMNM/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Dolphins ====
Several species of [[dolphin]] can be seen in the waters off Kaikōura, including [[Dusky dolphin]]s, and the endangered [[Hector's dolphin]].<ref name="Hikurangi Marine Reserve" />

=== Seabirds ===
New Zealand has an unusually high diversity of shags, penguins, petrels and albatross species, leading to claims that the country is the "seabird capital of the world".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wilson|first=Kerry-Jayne|title=Seabird capital of the world|url=https://teara.govt.nz/en/seabirds-overview/page-1|url-status=live|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Te Ara – The Encyclopedia of New Zealand|archive-date=24 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211224195449/https://teara.govt.nz/en/seabirds-overview/page-1}}</ref> Some of these seabird species are in significant decline, and many are critically endangered.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Seabird prioritisation framework|url=https://www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/seabird-prioritisation-framework|url-status=live|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai|archive-date=18 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518183529/https://www.doc.govt.nz/our-work/seabird-prioritisation-framework/}}</ref> Notable seabirds that are seen off Kaikōura include:<ref>{{cite journal| title=Ten great mainland pelagic trips in Aotearoa New Zealand| issue=31|date=September 2021|journal=Birds New Zealand}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=May 2016|title=The Wrybill|url=https://www.birdsnz.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Canterbury-1605.pdf|url-status=live|access-date=14 September 2021|website=Birds New Zealand|archive-date=1 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210201093557/https://www.birdsnz.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Canterbury-1605.pdf}}</ref><ref name="Fitzgerald" />
* fourteen species of albatross: [[Wandering albatross|Wandering]], [[Antipodean albatross|Antipodean]], [[Northern royal albatross|Northern royal]], [[Southern royal albatross|Southern royal]], [[Black-browed albatross|Black-browed]], [[Campbell albatross|Campbell]], [[White-capped albatross|White-capped]], [[Salvin's albatross|Salvin's]], [[Chatham albatross|Chatham]], [[Buller's albatross|Buller's]], [[Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross|Atlantic yellow-nosed]], [[Indian yellow-nosed albatross|Indian yellow-nosed]], [[Light-mantled albatross|Light-mantled]], [[Sooty albatross|Sooty]]
* ten species of petrel: [[Cook's petrel|Cook's]], [[Grey-faced petrel|Grey-faced]], [[Cape petrel|Cape]], [[Black petrel|Black]], [[White-chinned petrel|White-chinned]], [[Westland petrel|Westland]], [[Grey petrel|Grey]], [[White-headed petrel|White-headed]], [[Mottled petrel|Mottled]], [[Soft-plumaged petrel|Soft-plumaged]]
* seven species of shearwater: [[Buller's shearwater|Buller's]], [[Sooty shearwater|Sooty]], [[Hutton's shearwater|Hutton's]], [[Fluttering shearwater|Fluttering]], [[Short-tailed shearwater|Short-tailed]], [[Flesh-footed shearwater|Flesh-footed]], [[Pink-footed shearwater|Pink-footed]] 
* four species of skua: [[Arctic skua|Arctic]], [[Pomarine skua|Pomarine]], [[Long-tailed skua|Long-tailed]], [[Brown skua|Brown]]
* four species of storm petrel: [[White-faced storm petrel|White-faced]], [[Wilson's storm petrel|Wilson's]], [[Grey-backed storm petrel|Grey-backed]], [[Black-bellied storm petrel|Black-bellied]]
* four species of penguin: [[Little penguin|Little]], [[Yellow-eyed penguin|Yellow-eyed]], [[Erect-crested penguin|Erect-crested]], [[Chinstrap penguin|Chinstrap]]
* two species of giant petrel: [[Southern Giant Petrel]], [[Northern Giant Petrel]]

Other notable seabirds observed off Kaikōura include: [[Antarctic fulmar]], [[Fairy prion|Fairy Prion]], [[Grey Phalarope]], [[Black-billed gull]], [[Arctic tern]], [[Black-fronted tern]] and [[Common diving petrel]].  Also regularly seen are [[Australian pied cormorant|Pied shags]], [[Little pied cormorant|Little shag]], [[Spotted shag]], [[Australasian gannet]], [[Kelp gull|Southern black-backed gull]], [[Red-billed gull]], [[White-fronted tern]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Other seabirds|url=https://www.albatrossencounter.co.nz/watch-the-albatross-and-seabirds/kaikoura-seabirds/other-seabirds/|url-status=live|access-date=14 September 2021|website=Albatross Encounter|archive-date=14 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210914043619/https://www.albatrossencounter.co.nz/watch-the-albatross-and-seabirds/kaikoura-seabirds/other-seabirds/}}</ref>

From a local conservation perspective, particularly notable seabirds in the Kaikōura region include the Hutton's shearwater, the Red-billed gull, and the Little penguin.

==== Hutton's shearwater ====
{{Main|Hutton's shearwater}}

[[File:Hutton's shearwater (DOC).jpeg|thumb|Hutton's shearwater]]
The Hutton's shearwater (''Puffinus huttoni'') or Kaikōura tītī is an endangered seabird in the family [[Procellariidae]].  It is found in waters around Australia and New Zealand, but it only breeds in the Seaward Kaikōura Range in New Zealand.  It is the only seabird in the world that breeds in an alpine environment.  Nests have been found at elevations from 1200 to 1800{{Nbsp}}metres.  The [[Kowhai Valley and Shearwater Stream Important Bird Area]] contains the only two remaining alpine breeding colonies.  An artificial colony was established in a protected area on the Kaikōura peninsula as a conservation measure, after six other colonies were wiped out by feral pigs.<ref>{{Cite news|date=13 September 2012|title=Seabirds with a mountain home|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/7670187/Seabirds-with-a-mountain-home|access-date=14 September 2021|archive-date=17 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210317225827/http://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/7670187/Seabirds-with-a-mountain-home|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Guthrie|first=Kate|date=13 April 2021|title=Rare alpine seabird is 'one of a kind'|url=https://predatorfreenz.org/stories/huttons-shearwater-kaikoura/|url-status=live|access-date=14 September 2021|website=Predator Free NZ|archive-date=14 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210914010938/https://predatorfreenz.org/stories/huttons-shearwater-kaikoura/}}</ref> The birds fly at night, but can become disoriented by bright lights.  Fledglings are particularly vulnerable and can crash-land on roads in the town.  They are usually unable to take off again, making them vulnerable to being run over by vehicles or succumbing to predation by dogs or cats.  Conservation organisations in Kaikōura rescue stranded birds for later release and advocate for reduced lighting.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Allott|first=Amber|date=5 March 2021|title=Cantabrians urged to look out for threatened seabirds plummeting from the sky|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/124449760/cantabrians-urged-to-look-out-for-threatened-seabirds-plummeting-from-the-sky|access-date=20 September 2021|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921100046/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/124449760/cantabrians-urged-to-look-out-for-threatened-seabirds-plummeting-from-the-sky|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Red-billed gull ====
[[File:Red-billed gull colony, Kaikōura, New Zealand 08.jpg|thumb|Red-billed gull colony, Kaikōura]]
The [[Red-billed gull]], also known as tarāpunga''',''' is native to New Zealand.  The Kaikōura peninsula has one of the three largest breeding colonies of these gulls, but the local population is in significant decline.<ref>{{Cite journal| journal=Notornis| volume=65| year=2018| publisher=The Ornithological Society of New Zealand| title=Major changes in the red-billed gull (Larus novaehollandiae scopulinus) population at Kaikoura Peninsula, New Zealand; causes and consequences: a review| first1=James A.| last1=Mills| first2=John W.| last2=Yarrall| first3=Janet M.| last3=Bradford-Grieve| first4=Mike| last4=Morrissey| first5=Deborah A.| last5=Mills| url=http://notornis.osnz.org.nz/system/files/Mills_etal_2018.pdf| url-status=live| access-date=20 September 2021| archive-date=4 March 2021| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304103623/http://notornis.osnz.org.nz/system/files/Mills_etal_2018.pdf}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Brown|first=Pippa|date=21 February 2018|title=Kaikōura seabird deaths unusual says wildlife manager|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/101546866/seabird-deaths-unusual-says-wildlife-manager|access-date=14 September 2021|archive-date=14 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210914065157/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/101546866/seabird-deaths-unusual-says-wildlife-manager|url-status=live}}</ref> In contrast, there has been an increase in the population of Red-billed gulls at the breeding colony at [[Otago Peninsula]], where there is control of mammalian predators.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Red-billed gull|url=https://www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/red-billed-gull|url-status=live|access-date=14 September 2021|website=New Zealand Birds Online|archive-date=5 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210705165317/http://www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/red-billed-gull}}</ref>

==== Little penguin ====
The [[Little penguin]] or kororā is found along the Kaikōura coastline. These birds are vulnerable to becoming entangled in fishing nets, and while on land, are vulnerable to vehicle impact and predation by rats and domestic dogs. In a recent survey of 75{{nbsp}}km of Kaikōura coastline, the only breeding colony located was in fragmented areas around the southern part of the Kaikōura peninsula.<ref>{{Cite web|date=7 December 2020|title=KORI's Quest for Little Penguins Along the Greater Kaikōura Coastline|url=https://kori.org.nz/2020/12/07/koris-quest-for-little-penguins-along-the-greater-kaikoura-coastline/|url-status=live|access-date=20 September 2021|website=Kaikoura Ocean Research Institute|archive-date=20 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920212156/https://kori.org.nz/2020/12/07/koris-quest-for-little-penguins-along-the-greater-kaikoura-coastline/}}</ref>

=== Shorebirds ===
[[File:(Double) banded Plover - New Zealand (24357381137).jpg|thumb|Banded dotterel]]

==== Banded dotterel ====
The [[double-banded plover]], known in New Zealand as the banded dotterel or pohowera''',''' is a species of bird in the [[plover]] family that nests on stony beaches around the Kaikōura peninsula and South Bay.  The species is listed as Nationally Vulnerable.<ref>{{Cite web|date=13 September 2019|title=Tread lightly for the tūturiwhatu / banded dotterel|url=https://www.doc.govt.nz/news/media-releases/2019/tread-lightly-for-the-tuturiwhatu--banded-dotterel/|url-status=live|access-date=21 September 2021|website=Department of Conservation|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921084812/https://www.doc.govt.nz/news/media-releases/2019/tread-lightly-for-the-tuturiwhatu--banded-dotterel/}}</ref>   Breeding success of banded dotterels at Kaikōura has been severely affected by predation from cats.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dangerfield|first=Emma|date=19 October 2020|title=Banded dotterel slaying 'a devastating loss' for Kaikōura study|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/123112899/banded-dotterel-slaying-a-devastating-loss-for-kaikura-study|access-date=14 September 2021|archive-date=31 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210831041904/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/123112899/banded-dotterel-slaying-a-devastating-loss-for-kaikura-study|url-status=live}}</ref> A community-driven action plan is being developed to protect the habitat of nesting shorebirds at South Bay, with support from [[Canterbury Regional Council|Environment Canterbury]], Kaikōura District Council, [[University of Canterbury]] and [[Ngāi Tahu|Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=27 April 2021|title=South Bay Beach Action Plan Workshop|url=https://www.teamkorowai.org.nz/recent-projects-and-activities|url-status=live|access-date=21 September 2021|website=Te Korowai o Te Tai ō Marokura|archive-date=2 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220102214941/https://www.teamkorowai.org.nz/recent-projects-and-activities}}</ref>

== Dark Sky Sanctuary ==
{{Main|Kaikōura Dark Sky Sanctuary}}
An initiative was launched in 2022 to achieve international recognition of a [[dark-sky preserve]] in the Kaikōura area.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Reid |first=Joy |date=16 April 2022 |title=Kaikoura wants dark sky reserve created to save native seabird |work=1 News |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/04/16/kaikoura-wants-dark-sky-reserve-to-save-native-seabird/ |access-date=17 April 2022 |archive-date=16 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220416074553/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/04/16/kaikoura-wants-dark-sky-reserve-to-save-native-seabird/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The intention was to reduce the problems that lighting causes for Hutton's shearwaters.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Hart|first=Maia|date=1 May 2021|title=Dimming lights in Kaikōura to brighten town's prospects|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/300287781/dimming-lights-in-kaikura-to-brighten-towns-prospects|access-date=24 October 2021|archive-date=23 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023225908/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/300287781/dimming-lights-in-kaikura-to-brighten-towns-prospects|url-status=live}}</ref> The Kaikōura District Council had already modified streetlighting, to reduce the risk to the birds.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dangerfield|first=Emma|date=15 March 2016|title=Kaikoura looks at innovative lighting options to prevent risks to fledging birds|work=Kaikoura Star|publisher=Fairfax Media|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/77802147/kaikoura-looks-at-innovative-lighting-options-to-prevent-risks-to-fledging-birds|access-date=16 March 2016|archive-date=27 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027013939/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/77802147/kaikoura-looks-at-innovative-lighting-options-to-prevent-risks-to-fledging-birds|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Allott|first=Amber|date=6 October 2021|title=At least a dozen threatened seabirds crash on road in 24 hours|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/126595018/at-least-a-dozen-threatened-seabirds-crash-on-road-in-24-hours|access-date=24 October 2021|archive-date=23 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023230241/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/126595018/at-least-a-dozen-threatened-seabirds-crash-on-road-in-24-hours|url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2022, the [[Mayor of Kaikōura]] said that the dark-sky reserve initiative had the full support of the council, and would be a boost to tourist numbers, especially during the winter period.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Lourens |first=Marine |date=19 April 2022 |title=Dark sky reserve in Kaikōura could save Hutton's Shearwater birds, boost tourism |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/128400385/dark-sky-reserve-in-kaikura-could-save-huttons-shearwater-birds-boost-tourism |access-date=23 May 2022 |archive-date=23 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220523080843/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/128400385/dark-sky-reserve-in-kaikura-could-save-huttons-shearwater-birds-boost-tourism |url-status=live }}</ref> The Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust applied to [[DarkSky International]] for designation of an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in August 2024,<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 2024 |title=2024 DarkSky Sanctuary Application to DarkSky International |url=https://darksky.app.box.com/s/emnvq4j03nin2elyjqs4cpiirq6xhqnn |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240914010713/https://darksky.app.box.com/s/emnvq4j03nin2elyjqs4cpiirq6xhqnn |archive-date=14 September 2024 |access-date=12 September 2024 |publisher=Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust |via=[[DarkSky International]]}}</ref> and the designation was announced on 11 September 2024.<ref name="Regan">{{Cite web |last=Regan |first=Drew |date=11 September 2024 |title=Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust achieves International Dark Sky Sanctuary status for Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Conservation Park and surrounding Department of Conservation lands |url=https://darksky.org/news/kaikoura-dark-sky-trust-achieves-international-dark-sky-sanctuary-status-for-ka-whata-tu-o-rakihouia-conservation-park-and-surrounding-department-of-conservation-lands/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240912204034/https://darksky.org/news/kaikoura-dark-sky-trust-achieves-international-dark-sky-sanctuary-status-for-ka-whata-tu-o-rakihouia-conservation-park-and-surrounding-department-of-conservation-lands/ |archive-date=12 September 2024 |access-date=13 September 2024 |publisher=[[DarkSky International]]}}</ref> The sanctuary covers an area of {{cvt|2,039|km2}},<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reagan |first=Drew |date=11 September 2024 |title=Kaikōura |url=https://darksky.org/places/kaikoura-international-dark-sky-sanctuary/ |access-date=13 September 2024 |publisher=[[DarkSky International]]}}</ref> representing around 98% of the Kaikōura District, excluding the Kaikōura township.<ref name="Allen">{{Cite web |last=Allen |first=Ian |date=12 September 2024 |title=Kaikōura, the world's newest Dark Sky Sanctuary |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/350410810/kaikoura-worlds-newest-dark-sky-sanctuary |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913015019/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/350410810/kaikoura-worlds-newest-dark-sky-sanctuary |archive-date=13 September 2024 |access-date=13 September 2024 |website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]]}}</ref> The Trust plans to apply for the Kaikōura township to be recognised with international dark sky community status.<ref name=":02">{{Cite news |last=Hill |first=David |date=12 September 2024 |title=Kaikōura awarded dark sky sanctuary status |url=https://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/kaik%25C5%258Dura-awarded-dark-sky-sanctuary-status |access-date=12 September 2024 |work=[[Otago Daily Times]] |language=en-NZ}}</ref>

==Infrastructure==
The rebuild after the 2016 earthquake replaced or upgraded many of Kaikoura District Council's assets. These included replacing the oldest water mains built in the 1920s and many roads. This has left Kaikōura better placed financially in 2021 than many councils, as they do not have to replace these in the next 30 years as part of their long-term planning.<ref>{{Cite news |date=8 April 2021 |title=Kaikoura infrastructure in good shape – courtesy of earthquake rebuild |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300272356/kaikoura-infrastructure-in-good-shape--courtesy-of-earthquake-rebuild |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210408024804/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300272356/kaikoura-infrastructure-in-good-shape--courtesy-of-earthquake-rebuild |archive-date=8 April 2021 |access-date=8 April 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en}}</ref>

=== Hospital ===
Funding was announced in 2013 to rebuild the 100 year old Kaikoura Hospital.<ref>{{Cite web|date=11 April 2013|title=Canterbury DHB welcomes announcement on Kaikoura Hospital|url=https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE1304/S00048/canterbury-dhb-welcomes-announcement-on-kaikoura-hospital.htm|access-date=3 April 2021|website=www.scoop.co.nz|archive-date=1 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130501035909/http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE1304/S00048/canterbury-dhb-welcomes-announcement-on-kaikoura-hospital.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> It was completed in April 2016. The new building provides space for general practice, physiotherapy, dental, optometry, as well as maternity, radiology, and medical/trauma stabilisation and resuscitation facilities.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kaikōura Health (Te Hā o Te Ora)|url=https://www.cdhb.health.nz/hospitals-health-facilities/kaikoura-health/|access-date=3 April 2021|website=Canterbury DHB|language=en-NZ|archive-date=15 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415041034/https://www.cdhb.health.nz/hospitals-health-facilities/kaikoura-health/|url-status=live}}</ref> It cost $13.4 million to complete.<ref>{{Cite web|date=15 April 2016|title=New Kaikoura health centre opens – a community effort|url=https://www.cdhb.health.nz/canterbury-dhb-news/new-kaikoura-health-centre-opens-a-community-effort/|access-date=3 April 2021|website=Canterbury DHB|language=en-NZ|archive-date=23 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210223170939/https://www.cdhb.health.nz/canterbury-dhb-news/new-kaikoura-health-centre-opens-a-community-effort/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Kaikōura Civic Centre ===
[[File:Kaikōura Civic Centre MRD.jpg|thumb|Kaikōura Civic Centre with the distinctive wooden craypot (2025)]]
The Kaikōura Civic Centre was completed in 2016. It has a distinctive large "cray pot" on the outside of the building<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kaikoura Civic – Pres-Lam|url=http://pres-lam.com/projects/kaikoura-civic/|access-date=3 April 2021|language=en-NZ|archive-date=22 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122170217/http://pres-lam.com/projects/kaikoura-civic/|url-status=live}}</ref> which represents Kaikōura's connection to the sea.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kaikoura Civic Building|url=https://www.designbase.co.nz/projects/kaikoura-civic-building|access-date=3 April 2021|website=Design Base Architecture|language=en-US|archive-date=9 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210209225145/https://www.designbase.co.nz/projects/kaikoura-civic-building|url-status=live}}</ref> It contains offices for the Kaikōura District Council, Kaikōura Library, and Kaikōura Museum. A third floor was approved by the Kaikōura District Council in 2011, and the cost rose, which led to complaints from rate payers and submissions to the Long Term Plan in 2012 requesting restraint in spending.<ref>{{Cite web|date=27 June 2012|title=Grand designs not necessary|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/7176343/Grand-designs-not-necessary|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=15 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115073835/https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/7176343/Grand-designs-not-necessary|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=19 July 2015|title=Rare public meeting over Kaikoura civic centre costs and delays|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/70252737/rare-public-meeting-over-kaikoura-civic-centre-costs-and-delays|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=15 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115073835/https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/70252737/rare-public-meeting-over-kaikoura-civic-centre-costs-and-delays|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=17 December 2015|title=New figures for Kaikoura Civic Centre show $1.7 million shortfall|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/75197460/new-figures-for-kaikoura-civic-centre-show-17-million-shortfall|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=15 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115073836/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/75197460/new-figures-for-kaikoura-civic-centre-show-17-million-shortfall|url-status=live}}</ref> Long term, finances for the Kaikōura District Council have been suggested to be tenuous.<ref>{{Cite web|date=3 October 2019|title=Kaikōura District Council at 'risk of implosion' after 2016 earthquake|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/116230683/kaikura-district-council-at-risk-of-implosion-after-2016-earthquake|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=3 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211003040418/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/116230683/kaikura-district-council-at-risk-of-implosion-after-2016-earthquake|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Hotel ===
A $35 million 4.5-star hotel was due to open in September 2021, but work was delayed due to the loss of international tourists because of the [[COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand|COVID-19 pandemic]]. It is expected to have 118 bedrooms{{clarify|date=October 2024}} and provide economic stimulus to Kaikōura.<ref>{{Cite web|date=27 July 2020|title=Sudima Hotel in Kaikoura to open September next year after Covid-19 slows progress|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/property/122257898/sudima-hotel-in-kaikoura-to-open-september-next-year-after-covid19-slows-progress|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=30 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430175357/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/property/122257898/sudima-hotel-in-kaikoura-to-open-september-next-year-after-covid19-slows-progress|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=24 April 2020|title=Sudima committed to Kaikoura project|url=https://www.odt.co.nz/star-news/star-districts/star-north-canterbury/sudima-committed-kaikoura-project|access-date=3 April 2021|website=[[Otago Daily Times]] |language=en|archive-date=1 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501104720/https://www.odt.co.nz/star-news/star-districts/star-north-canterbury/sudima-committed-kaikoura-project|url-status=live}}</ref> It later opened in October 2022.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Sudima hotel opens in Kaikoura |url=https://www.odt.co.nz/star-news/star-districts/star-north-canterbury/sudima-hotel-opens-kaikoura |last=Bristow |first=Robyn |date=20 October 2022 |access-date=7 October 2024 |work=Star News}}</ref>

== Transport ==

=== Road transport ===
[[State Highway 1 (New Zealand)|State Highway 1]] passes through the town.

===Air===
Kaikōura also has a small sealed airstrip located 6&nbsp;km south of the main centre. [[Kaikoura Airport]] is mainly used for whale spotting tourist flights, but it can also be used by small private and charter flights. It previously had return flights to [[Wellington]] and [[Christchurch]] operated by [[Sounds Air]]. A new service to Wellington has since been started with [[Air Kaikoura]].

===Rail===
[[File:Locomotive Kaikoura Coastal Pacific.jpg|thumb|Coastal Pacific locomotive, Kaikōura]]
Kaikōura is served by the [[Main North Line, New Zealand|Main North Line]], the northern section of the [[South Island Main Trunk Railway]]. The line opened north of Kaikōura on 13 March 1944, while the line south of the town opened on 15 December 1945, the latter completing the full line [[Christchurch]] to [[Picton, New Zealand|Picton]].<ref>{{cite web |title= Geographical Mileage Table 1957 |url= http://www.railheritage.org.nz/assets/NZR_MILEAGE_TABLE_1957.pdf |publisher= New Zealand Railways |access-date= 19 November 2016 |archive-date= 7 April 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170407032743/http://railheritage.org.nz/assets/NZR_MILEAGE_TABLE_1957.pdf |url-status= live }}</ref>

Kaikōura is served by the [[Coastal Pacific]] long-distance passenger train, formerly called the TranzCoastal, which connected the town with [[Christchurch]] to the south, Picton and the [[Cook Strait]] [[ferry|ferries]] to the north. Kaikoura Station was the last station in New Zealand to have a [[Railway refreshment room#New Zealand|refreshment room]] for passengers, which closed in 1988 when the Coastal Pacific Express (former name for the TranzCoastal) introduced on-board refreshments.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Hutchins|first=Graham|title=Stop the Train ! I want to get on|publisher=Exisle Publishing|year=2014|isbn=978-1-77559-139-9|location=Auckland|pages=50}}</ref>

Freight trains also pass through the town, mainly carrying freight between the marshalling yards at Middleton in Christchurch and the [[Interislander|Interislander rail ferries]] at Picton.

The Main North Line (Picton to Christchurch, passing through Kaikōura) suffered damage in the November 2016 earthquake and was closed for repairs, reopening to freight traffic on 15 September 2017.  The [[Coastal Pacific]] resumed running once all repairs were completed in mid-2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/coastal-pacific/|title=Coastal Pacific|access-date=30 September 2017|language=en-NZ|archive-date=11 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170811055146/https://www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/coastal-pacific/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Education==
{{further|List of schools in Canterbury, New Zealand#Kaikoura District}}
The Kaikōura District has one secondary school, [[Kaikōura High School]], and four primary schools: Hāpuku School, Kaikōura Primary School, Kaikoura Suburban School, and St Joseph's School.

==Media==

===Newspapers===
The main newspapers for Kaikōura are the Wednesday weekly ''[[Kaikoura Star]]'' and Monday to Friday late morning daily ''[[The Marlborough Express]]''. The early morning Monday-Saturday [[Christchurch]] based daily ''[[The Press]]'' is also available. These papers are all owned by [[Fairfax New Zealand]]

===Radio===
Kaikōura has three locally transmitted radio stations on FM. These are [[More FM|More FM Marlborough]] (formerly [[Sounds FM]]) broadcast from [[Blenheim, New Zealand|Blenheim]] during the day and [[Auckland]] at night, [[Blue FM]] which is a locally broadcast Kaikōura station, and [[Tahu FM]] broadcast from Christchurch. Non local transmissions of the following stations can be received: [[The Breeze (New Zealand)|The Breeze (Wellington AM/FM)]], [[Radio New Zealand National|Radio New Zealand National (Wellington AM/FM)]], [[ZM (New Zealand)|ZM (Wellington and Christchurch FM)]], [[Radio Hauraki|Radio Hauraki (Christchurch)]].

==Amenities==

=== Mayfair Theatre ===
[[File:Kaikoura movie theatre.JPG|thumb|Mayfair Theatre, Kaikōura]]
The Mayfair Theatre is an [[Art Deco|art deco]] building on the Esplanade that was first opened in 1935 as a venue for cinema and concerts. In 1985, the building was put up for sale, and by 1986, it had been purchased for the town as a result of a community fundraising initiative.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Bowman|first=Glenys|date=20 March 1989|title=It's Kaikoura's do-it-yourself theatre|journal=New Zealand Woman's Weekly}}</ref>

The building was damaged beyond repair in the [[2016 Kaikōura earthquake]], but community fundraising efforts resulted in the construction of a new cinema and performance venue on the site, retaining the 1934 art deco façade.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Brown|first=Pippa|date=10 May 2017|title=Scottish celebration to launch fundraising for Mayfair Theatre revamp|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/92360581/scottish-celebration-to-launch-fundraising-for-mayfair-theatre-revamp|access-date=23 January 2022|archive-date=22 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122220703/https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/92360581/scottish-celebration-to-launch-fundraising-for-mayfair-theatre-revamp|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Brown|first=Pippa|date=14 February 2018|title=Mobile Mayfair raising funds to rebuild iconic theatre|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/101268027/mobile-mayfair-raising-funds-to-rebuild-iconic-theatre|access-date=23 January 2022|archive-date=22 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122203744/https://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/101268027/mobile-mayfair-raising-funds-to-rebuild-iconic-theatre|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Brown|first=Pippa|date=7 February 2018|title=Art Deco Mayfair Theatre "ambitious" rebuild fundraising to start|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/stage-and-theatre/101174873/art-deco-mayfair-theatre-ambitious-rebuild-fundraising-to-start|access-date=23 January 2022|archive-date=22 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122203746/https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/stage-and-theatre/101174873/art-deco-mayfair-theatre-ambitious-rebuild-fundraising-to-start|url-status=live}}</ref>  After a $3.6 million restoration project, the building was re-opened in November 2020 as the Mayfair Arts and Culture Centre Te Whare Toi ō Kaikōura.<ref>{{Cite news|date=10 November 2020|title=Picturesque Kaikoura movie theatre to reopen after $3.6m restoration|work=[[New Zealand Herald]] |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/picturesque-kaikoura-movie-theatre-to-reopen-after-36m-restoration/QN3PULUYKKKW37LFJ7YOM37DOU/|access-date=22 January 2022|archive-date=16 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116130717/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/picturesque-kaikoura-movie-theatre-to-reopen-after-36m-restoration/QN3PULUYKKKW37LFJ7YOM37DOU/|url-status=live}}</ref>  As well as two movie screens, it has an upstairs exhibition space.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Venue hire|url=https://www.themayfair.org.nz/venue-hire/|access-date=23 January 2022|website=The Mayfair|archive-date=8 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908072913/https://www.themayfair.org.nz/venue-hire/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Swimming pool ===
The Kaikōura swimming pool on the Esplanade was badly damaged in the 2016 earthquake, leaving Kaikōura without a public pool for five years.<ref name="Stuff-2021">{{Cite web|date=4 November 2021|title=Kaikōura Aquatic Centre to open on five-year earthquake anniversary|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/126872425/kaikura-aquatic-centre-to-open-on-fiveyear-earthquake-anniversary|access-date=5 November 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065511/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/126872425/kaikura-aquatic-centre-to-open-on-fiveyear-earthquake-anniversary|url-status=live}}</ref> A charitable trust was established to raise funds to build a replacement pool.<ref>{{Cite web|date=11 July 2019|title=New public swimming pool planned for Kaikōura|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/114073146/new-public-swimming-pool-planned-for-kaikoura|access-date=5 November 2021|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |language=en|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065510/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/114073146/new-public-swimming-pool-planned-for-kaikoura|url-status=live}}</ref> Funding of $3.7{{Nbsp}}million was raised for the build, with the Kaikōura District Council contributing $1{{Nbsp}}million, COVID Recovery Fund contributing $1{{Nbsp}}million and the Kaikōura Community Op Shop contributing $100,000. The Kaikōura Aquatic Centre opened in November 2021.<ref name="Stuff-2021" /> It includes a 25{{Nbsp}}m x 12{{Nbsp}}m lap pool, a smaller pool for learners, and a toddler pool.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kaikōura Community Pool |url=https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/our-district/swimming-pool/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065513/https://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/our-district/swimming-pool/ |archive-date=5 November 2021 |access-date=5 November 2021 |website=Kaikōura District Council |language=en}}</ref>

=== Horse racing ===
The Kaikōura race course is located on Bay Parade at South Bay and is administered by the Kaikōura Trotting Club. The club was first established in 1914 with the first Kaikōura Trotting Cup won by a horse called Kintail owned by Albert Edgar and trained by Billie Honeybone.<ref>{{Cite web|title=About The Kaikoura Trotting Club|url=https://kaikouraraces.co.nz/about-kaikoura-trotting-club/|access-date=5 November 2021|website=Kaikoura Races|language=en-NZ|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065514/https://kaikouraraces.co.nz/about-kaikoura-trotting-club/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2021, the Kaikōura Trotting Cup weekend, normally held in early November was transferred to [[Addington Raceway]] in [[Christchurch]] due to COVID-19 restrictions.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kaikoura transfers iconic race meeting|url=https://www.hrnz.co.nz/news/kaikoura-transfers-iconic-race-meeting/|url-status=live|access-date=5 November 2021|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065511/https://www.hrnz.co.nz/news/kaikoura-transfers-iconic-race-meeting/}}</ref>

=== Golf course ===
The Kaikōura golf club was established in 1911, with 39 members joining during the first season. The first nine-hole course was located at the South Bay Domain. In 1935, the course moved to a new 9-hole course with a clubhouse near the Kowhai River. In 1958, three extra holes were added. And in 1960, a further three holes were added. In 1963, the course was extended again to 18 holes.<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Club|url=https://www.kaikouragolf.co.nz/about-us/the-club/|access-date=5 November 2021|website=Kaikoura Golf Club|language=en-NZ|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065513/https://www.kaikouragolf.co.nz/about-us/the-club/|url-status=live}}</ref> The Koura Bay golf resort, just to the north of Kaikōura, has a nine-hole golf course.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Koura Bay Golf Resort|url=https://kourabayresort.co.nz/|url-status=live|access-date=5 November 2021|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105065512/https://kourabayresort.co.nz/}}</ref>

==Notable people==
{{main category|People from Kaikōura}}
Notable people from Kaikōura include:
* [[Pat Boot]] – middle-distance runner who competed at the [[1936 Summer Olympics]] and the [[1938 British Empire Games]], winning gold and bronze medals at the latter.
* [[Thomas Cooke (soldier, born 1881)|Thomas Cooke]] – posthumously awarded the [[Victoria Cross]] for gallantry at the [[Battle of Pozières]] during the [[World War I|First World War]].
* [[Aston Greathead]] –  artist
* [[Ted Howard (conservationist)|Ted Howard]] – conservationist
* [[Trevor Howse]] – [[Ngāi Tahu]] leader and researcher
* Ronald Jorgensen – one of the perpetrators of the [[Bassett Road machine gun murders]] in 1963
* [[Ailsa McGilvary]] –  bird conservationist and photographer
* [[Bert Sandos]] – rower who competed at the [[1930 British Empire Games]], where he won two medals, and at the [[1932 Summer Olympics]].
* [[Mark Solomon (Māori leader)|Mark Solomon]] – Māori leader, kaiwhakahaere (chairperson) of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, chair of the Canterbury District Health Board
* [[Julie Syme]] – community service leader
* [[Melville Syme]] – community service leader
* [[Ian Walker (firefighter)|Ian Walker]] – long-serving Chief Fire Officer of the Kaikōura volunteer fire brigade
* [[Cora Wilding]] – physiotherapist noted for her advocacy of outdoor activities and children's health camps in the 1930s
* [[John Wood (diplomat)|John Wood]] – diplomat and a former chancellor of the [[University of Canterbury]]

==Gallery==
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150" caption="Kaikōura">
File:Early morning sun on snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range.jpg|Seaward Kaikōura Range from Kaikōura town
File:080420-Kaikouras from Kaikoura.jpg|The Seaward Kaikōura mountain range from Kaikōura
File:Kaikoura Beach.jpg|View of a beach and Seaward Kaikōura Range from Kaikōura
File:Fyffe House, Kaikoura.jpg|Fyffe House
File:NZ280315 Kaikoura Whale Watching 01.jpg|Whale watching vessel
File:Spermwhale tail.JPG|A sperm whale seen from on a whale-watching tour boat off Kaikōura
File:Colonia di otarie.JPG|A seal colony on the Kaikōura peninsula
File:Fur_seal_at_kaikoura.jpg|A fur seal on the beach at Kaikōura
</gallery>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons}}
{{Wikivoyage}}

* [http://www.kaikoura.govt.nz/ Kaikōura District Council official website]
* [http://www.kaikoura.co.nz Kaikōura tourism and information site]

{{Kaikōura District}}
{{Cities and districts of New Zealand}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Kaikōura}}
[[Category:Kaikōura| ]]
[[Category:Kaikōura District]]
[[Category:Populated places in the Canterbury Region]]
[[Category:Birdwatching sites in New Zealand]]