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Location was perfect for walking to the Seal Colony along the path and the beach . The front Desk hours were very limited and the breakfast left a bit to be desired . But the location and the quaint courtyard make up for its downfalls.

Enjoyed the whale watching tour - the day was reasonably calm so no one was seasick thank goodness. Staff were informatiive and shared the story of the whales and dolphins. The map showing us the travel route was very helpful to understand the trnech and which direction and area we were headed to.

Kaikoura is a 2 hr drive from our home, so we regularly visit for long weekends. It's a special part of NZ where people and nature can interact. There's something special about how the mountains meet the sea. And of course the fresh seafood is spectacular

WhaleWatch trip was very good. Great cafes: Flo and Co has excellent coffee. Sime's Kitchen had great breakfast and lunch - vegan choices were delicious. Tipsy Foodies also recommended. Southern Paua shop and factory highly recommended - amazing range of jewellery, carvings and gifts. Some exquisite pounamu too. Best place to buy gifts in Kaikoura!! Novel Findings is a great bookshop and homewares shop - don't miss it! Loved the Ngāi Tahu artworks beside the highway, murals on the railway bridge and buildings. It's really worth checking the "Neat Places Kaikoura" website - lots of great suggestions for cool places and things to do in Kaikoura.

The wild life was definitely the highlight of the trip for me. I went swimming with dolphins and saw load of seals with their pups. Also the people in the town are super friendly and helpful. Of course the scenery is also breathtaking. Loads of nice eating places that serve great seafood.

Very easy to find way to attractions,town lovely and clean.Plenty of eating places,ones we used were all excellent and value for money.Only thing we regretted was we missed the Whale Watch tour as it was blowing hard both full days we were there and there were no sailings.Will have to go back again.