Kaikoura (New Zealand)

Kaikoura is a port town on the east coast of South Island (New Zealand). The town has total area approx 7 km2 (3 mi2) and population around 2,000. Kaikoura is located on State Highway 1, approx 180 km (112 mi) north of Christchurch (South Island's largest city).

Kaikoura Peninsula extends south of the town into the sea. The resulting strong currents bring a wealth of marine life out of the nearby Hikurangi Trench (aka Hikurangi Trough, approx 80 km / 50 mi from shore, with depths of 3+ km). The town was developed as a whaling port. Crayfish industry is still a major contributor to the local economy.

On November 14, 2016, Kaikoura suffered from a 7,8 Richter magnitude earthquake, during which town's infrastructure was heavily damaged. Bay's sea level increased by 2 m (7 ft) because of the triggered tsunami. Hundreds of residents and over 1,000 tourists were stranded in Kaikoura after the earthquake cut off the vehicle and train traffic.

Kaikoura is a popular NZ tourism travel destination, especially for Sperm Whale watching and swimming with dolphins. There is a large Antarctic fur seal colony at the town's eastern end. At low tide, better wildlife viewing is possible as the ocean gives way to the rocky base that is easily walkable for some distance.