Kaikoura is a town on the east coast of the South Island and is located 180 km north of Christchurch. The Kaikoura Peninsula extends into the sea, and the currents bring an abundance of marine life. The town was developed as a centre for the whaling industry. The name ‘Kaikoura’ translates to ‘meal of crayfish’ and the crayfish industry still plays an important role in the economy of the region.

Kaikoura has now become a popular tourist destination, mainly for whale watching and swimming with dolphins. There is also a colony of fur seals. At low tide one can get a better view of the seals as the ocean gives way to a rocky base which is easily accessed on foot. In Kaikoura it is also possible to see open ocean Albatross.

The town has a picturesque setting, with the Southern Alps on one side and the sea shore on the other. The mountains come nearly to the sea at this spot and this area offers various walking tracks around the mountains and coast. A common track is the Mt. Fyffe track, which offers a breathtaking view of the Kaikoura peninsula .