For sheer drama and beauty, the Kaikoura Ranges must seriously rival The Remarkables in Queenstown. Recently, we took the SH1 Road via sunny Nelson – through the wine country of Blenheim and onto Kaikoura . This is a spectacular scenic route in the South Island and on a crisp winter’s day it’s magic!
Passed an SUV with a sullen teenager in the back playing video games. Hey kid, if you look up and out of the window, you’ll see New Zealand Fur Seals just metres from the roadside!
In case you’re wondering, the above sign shows a bulls-eye design with the number “100” which reads “It’s not a Target, drive to the conditions”. Yes, some of us need a constant reminder.
Just 40 minutes out of Kaikoura, we stopped at The Store in Kekerengu. The Store is a destination in itself – a large restaurant designed with sloping cathedral ceilings and in winter, the open fire is most welcomed. Great views from this restaurant.
After eating, we headed down to the beach behind The Store (takes only seconds) to find our own solitude – there’s plenty to be had today!
We chose to stay inside the Kaikoura township at Waves on the Esplanade (Kaikoura Apartments). Unlike a lot of apartments we’ve stayed at, The Waves are well maintained and equpped to a high standard. Each apartment has two bathrooms and is built on an angle to maximise the mountain views. And if you’re looking for an unbiased opinion on where to eat, just ask the host, Liz Farell – she’ll point you in the right direction.
There’s a lot to do in Kaikoura from whale watching, surfing, walks and fishing charters where the crew will fillet your catch! I think it takes at least 2 days to fully appreciate the Kaikoura area – we love returning here.
