Dining Guide

Kaikoura, being an important fishing port, is a Mecca for seafood lovers with ample fresh delicacies for all.

Local specialties include Groper, Cod, Mussels, Paua and of course, the town’s namesake, Crayfish. Other delights such as Oysters, Scallops and Whitebait are available in season.

For those that are unable to catch their own or just don’t want to spend time cooking while on holiday there are Takeaway Bars and Food Delivery companies, Restaurants,Cafes, Bars and Hotels offering a wide range of  Seafood meals.

Eating places are available to satisfy anyone’s appetite with food to suit all tastes. They range from casual to near formal, from Fast foods to organically grown health foods, from just a “nibble” to “banquets”.

Many of these places are fully licensed for those that enjoy a drink with their meal.

Kaikoura even has it’s own vineyards at the Kaikoura Winery with splendid ocean views where you may take your own picnic and wash it down  with an excellent Kaikoura Wine.

Other noteworthy local produce includes Hot Bread, Pies & Cakes, Fudge, Cheese, Honey, Wholemeal flour, Fruit &  Vegetables, Fresh Seafoods, Meats & Smallgoods.

North of Kaikoura the coastline’s iconic crayfish caravan Nin's Bin has been an attraction for many years, and to sit on the beach eating the delicate crayfish meat while watching the abundant wildlife is a true Kaikoura experience.

 In town, Cods and Crayfish fish shop also stocks the delicacy, and supplys scallops, fresh fish, mussels, kina, marinated octopus, and smoked fish which is delicious with fresh bread, salad and a local wine.