Kaikoura Stories


Wellington to Whale-watching

Wellington to Whale-watching 17th February 2011 We left Turangi on Tuesday morning and drove to Wellington. Strange and varied scenery on the way with moonscapes, mountains and arable land. Arrived at Wellington around 1pm, found the ferry terminal and booked a ticket for the next day but alas could not find a Hotel anywhere. This was becau...


DAY 13 ROAD TRIP - Kaikoura to Oamaru.

Drove away from Kaikoura, headed south. We had decided not to spend time in Christchurch, we're not big city people by choice. First choice was Timaru, but Lonely Planet recommended 85 km further along the road to Oamaru. Good choice, super place but a long drive. Initial part of the journey was very picturesque, hills, mountains on the right, sea...


DAY 12 ROAD TRIP - Kaikoura - Dolphin Encounter

Up early to check out of Dusky Lodge, & then off to the Dolphin Encounter. We were both booked on the boat as watchers, but due to lack of spaces, I was only waitlisted for a chance to swim with the dolphins. Didn't work, as obviously everyone turned up. Anyway, a really fabulous experience. Off on a 'trawler', from Kaikoura's south bay, travelled...


Flying a Plane!!

I have just got back from Kaikoura Airfield where I got to fly a plane! It was a two-seater Cessna 150 Acrobat, and I got about 20 minutes of flight-time, plus take-off and landing. It was really brilliant and now I want to be a pilot! I did the take-off on my own and the guy only assisted with the landing which was easier than I thought it would ...