Kaikoura, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Kaikoura, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Kaikoura, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kaikoura, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Kaikoura, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kaikoura, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kaikoura, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kaikoura, New Zealand by month

January

January is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you visit Kaikoura during February, you will probably notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

March

If you visit Kaikoura during March, you may find that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

In April, Kaikoura is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Kaikoura, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

May

If you visit Kaikoura during May, you may find that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

In June, Kaikoura can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Kaikoura, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

July

If you visit Kaikoura during July, you might find that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

August

August in Kaikoura can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you vacation in Kaikoura during September, you might find that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

Traveling to Kaikoura in October, you will notice that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Kaikoura is cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

December

December in this region is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaikoura. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

What to do in Kaikoura, New Zealand

Located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, Kaikoura is a small coastal town renowned for its abundant wildlife and natural marine wonders. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history buff, Kaikoura has something to offer for everyone. Let's explore some of the top tourist attractions that Kaikoura has to offer.

Whale Watching

Kaikoura is world-famous for its whale watching tours. The town is situated on a migratory path for whales, dolphins, and other marine life, making it an ideal spot to observe these majestic creatures up close. You can take a boat tour to see sperm whales, humpback whales, and even orcas. Whale watching tours usually last for around two hours and run throughout the year, but peak season is between June and September.

Seal Colony

Kaikoura is also home to a colony of fur seals that can be observed up close at the Ohau Point Seal Colony. The seals are playful creatures that can be seen sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in playful activities. The best time to visit the seal colony is during the winter months when the seal pups are born, and you can see them playing around in the water.

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a hike that takes you through the rugged landscape of the Kaikoura coastline. The two-hour walk offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hillsides, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. Make sure to keep an eye out for New Zealand fur seals, dolphins, and even albatross.

Maori Tours

For those interested in history and culture, Maori tours are a great way to learn about the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand. The tours take you to sacred Maori sites and landmarks, where you can learn about the Maori traditions, history, and way of life.

Kaikoura Museum

Kaikoura Museum is a small museum that offers a glimpse into the town's history and culture. The museum exhibits artifacts and displays that showcase the region's natural and social history. The museum is particularly famous for its collection of whaling artifacts and Maori history.

In conclusion, Kaikoura offers a unique mix of natural wonders, wildlife, history, and culture that make it an appealing destination for tourists. From whale watching to seal colonies, Maori tours, hiking, and museum visits, there's plenty to see and do in Kaikoura. So, if you're planning a trip to New Zealand's South Island, make sure to add Kaikoura to your itinerary.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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