Shopping in the West End
In the heart of Kaikoura’s own ‘West End,’ pleasant footpaths meander parallel with Lyell Creek through a variety of retail premises showcasing the diverse talents of Kaikoura’s many local artists, as well as meeting all your vacation and day-to-day needs.
Shops such as Genevieve’s , full of knick-knacks, souvenirs and local and New Zealand-wide craft; Gecko Gearz offering funky and ethnic clothing and accessories, incense etc, Global Culture with a unique range of Kiwi-themed T-shirts and clothing, and stylish Little Rock offering beautiful hand crafted shell jewellery, funky costume jewellery, luxury soaps and body creams, adorable baby gifts and lots of classic Kiwiana.
R & R Sports has a huge selection of active and fashion clothing as well as a comprehensive range of sporting and outdoors equipment, covering everything you might wish to do in the area - from tramping and camping, to biking, surfing and snowboarding; plus an excellent selection of the much sought-after New Zealand ‘Icebreaker’ range, combining award-winning design with the luxury and comfort of New Zealand merino wool.
For all your internet and photographic needs visit Photo & Frame , who also have digital cameras, cards and accessories, as well as sunglasses, gifts and more; whilst a visit to Andrew Spencer Photography offers visitors a range of distinctive and unique images, capturing the essence of Kaikoura.
Takenote’s recently extended premises offer a broad range of books, magazines and stationery, as well as cards for all occasions and a wide selection of toys and gifts for all ages.
Kaikoura 4 Square is a small and friendly supermarket with an excellent selection of produce - often locally grown, as well as the usual range of supermarket products,and meat from Harnett’s, the local butchery, including Harnett’s own sausages. So crank up the ‘barbie’ in true Kiwi style, and visit Betty’s Liquor Store for a great selection of New Zealand and imported beers, wines, spirits and r-t-d’s to wash it all down with!
Alternatively visit Coopers Catch or Hines for the original Kiwi takeaway – fresh local fish & chips! Here you will find much more than just fish and chips, everything from burgers to paua patties, whitebait and souvlakis.
Continuing down to the other end of the high street, clean and brand new toilet facilities are situated adjacent to a pleasantly landscaped grassed and paved area to sit and relax, as well as a bridge leading over the river to the beach and the glittering South Pacific ocean.
At the far end of the car park is Kaikoura’s I-Site Tourist Information Centre and continuing past here a scenic walk along the esplanade leads you past the pink and very retro-styley Mayfair Theatre , and on to Café Encounter a must-visit with its café offering excellent coffee, delicious food and stunning views, plus the opportunity to book dolphin trips.
