Kaikoura New Zealand: A Look at its History, Amazing Facts, and Things to Do
Kaikoura is a small town on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, its unique wildlife, and its rich history. Kaikoura has been a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike for centuries, and its popularity continues to grow. In this article, we will take a look at the history of Kaikoura, some amazing facts about the area, and some great things to do while visiting.
History of Kaikoura
The area now known as Kaikoura has been inhabited for centuries by the Ngati Kuri and Ngati Mamoe people, who were the first to settle in the area. The name Kaikoura translates to “eat crayfish” in the Maori language, as the area was renowned for its abundance of crayfish.
In the late 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area. They established farms and fishing industries, and the town of Kaikoura was officially established in 1882. In the early 1900s, the town became a popular tourist destination, and it has remained so ever since.
Amazing Facts About Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a unique place, and there are many amazing facts about the area. Here are just a few:
• Kaikoura is home to the world’s only albatross colony.
• The Kaikoura Peninsula is home to one of the world’s largest populations of fur seals.
• Kaikoura is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with dolphins in the wild.
• The area is also home to the world’s only mainland colony of Sperm Whales.
• The area is also known for its abundance of seabirds, including the rare Hutton’s Shearwater.
• Kaikoura is also home to a wide variety of native plants, including the rare and endangered Kaikoura Daisy.
Things to Do in Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a great place to visit, and there are plenty of things to do. Here are some of the most popular activities:
• Whale watching: Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. You can take a boat tour to see the Sperm Whales, or you can take a helicopter tour to get a bird’s eye view of the whales.
• Dolphin swimming: You can swim with wild dolphins in Kaikoura. This is an amazing experience that you won’t soon forget.
• Seabird watching: Kaikoura is home to a wide variety of seabirds, including the rare Hutton’s Shearwater. You can take a boat tour to see these birds in their natural habitat.
• Hiking: There are plenty of great hiking trails in Kaikoura, ranging from easy to challenging. You can explore the area’s stunning natural beauty on foot.
• Fishing: Kaikoura is a great place to go fishing. You can catch a variety of fish, including crayfish, snapper, and cod.
• Shopping: Kaikoura is home to a variety of shops, where you can buy souvenirs, local crafts, and more.
Kaikoura is an amazing place to visit, and it is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or something in between, Kaikoura has something for everyone.