Kaikoura: Where Mountains and Ocean Converge

• HelloKia ora
  [key-ah or-ah]
• GoodbyeHaere rā
  [high-ree rah]
• YesĀe
  [eye]
• NoKāore
  [kaa-or-reh]
• Please/You're welcomeKoa
  [koh-ah]
• Thank youNgā mihi
  [nah mee-hee]
• Excuse me/SorryWhakapāhaia au
  [fah-kah-paah-high-ah ow]
• How are you?Kei te pehea koe?
  [key teh feh-ha koh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Ka pai. Ā koe?
  [kah pie. eye koh-eh]
• Do you speak English?Kōrero koe i te reo Pākehā?
  [koh-reh-roh koh-eh ee teh reh-oh pah-keh-ha]
• I don't understandKaore au e mohio
  [kaa-or-reh ow eh moh-hee-oh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe tiro i te wharangi kai, koa
  [meh tee-roh ee teh fah-rah-ngi kai, koh-ah]
• I don't eat meatKāore au e kai mīti
  [kaa-or-reh ow eh kai mee-tee]
• Cheers!Āraha!
  [eye-rah-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe utu au, koa
  [meh oo-too ow, koh-ah]

• Help!Āwhina!
  [eye-fee-nah]
• Go away!Haere atu!
  [high-ree ah-too]
• Call the Police!Whakapā atu ki te Pirihimana!
  [fah-kah-paah ah-too kee teh pee-ree-hee-mah-nah]
• Call a doctor!Whakapā atu ki te doctor!
  [fah-kah-paah ah-too kee teh doh-k-tor]
• I'm lostI wareware au
  [ee wah-reh-wah-reh ow]
• I'm illKua mate au
  [koo-ah mah-teh ow]

• I'd like to buy...Me hoko...
  [meh hoh-koh]
• I'm just lookingE hiahia ana au
  [eh hee-ah-hee-ah ah-nah ow]
• How much is it?E hia te utu?
  [eh hee-ah teh oo-too]
• That's too expensiveHe rawa te utu
  [heh rah-wah teh oo-too]
• Can you lower the price?Ka taea e koe te whakaiti i te utu?
  [kah teh-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kai-tee ee teh oo-too]

• What time is it?He aha te wa?
  [heh ah-hah teh wah]
• It's one o'clockKotahi te haora
  [koh-tah-hee teh hah-oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Tekau ma rima
  [teh-koh mah ree-mah]
• MorningAta
  [ah-tah]
• AfternoonAhiahi
  [ah-hee-ah-hee]
• EveningPō
  [poh]
• YesterdayRāwhānau
  [rah-fah-now]
• TodayTēnei rā
  [teh-nay rah]
• TomorrowĀpōpō
  [ah-poh-poh]
• 1Tahi
  [tah-hee]
• 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
• 3Toru
  [toh-roo]
• 4Whā
  [fah]
• 5Rima
  [ree-mah]
• 6Ono
  [oh-no]
• 7Whitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Waru
  [wah-roo]
• 9Iwa
  [ee-wah]
• 10Tekau
  [teh-kou]

• Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...
  [key heh-ah teh]
• What's the address?Ko wai te wāhitau?
  [koh why teh wah-hee-tow]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Taea e koe te whakaatu mai ki ahau (i runga i te mahere)?
  [teh-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kah-ah-too my key ah-how ee roo-ngah ee teh mah-heh-reh]
• When's the next (bus)?Āhea te (pahi) kei te tatau?
  [eye-heh teh pah-hee kei teh tah-tow]
• A ticket (to ....)He tiki (ki ...)
  [heh tee-kee kee]

Kaikoura, which translates to 'meal of crayfish' in Māori, has been inhabited by the Ngāti Kurī tribe for over 900 years. The Māori people were drawn to the region’s rich marine life, particularly the abundance of crayfish, which became a staple in their diet. The region’s mountains and coastlines were also significant in Māori mythology and spirituality, serving as a backdrop for many of their legends and stories.

The first recorded European to sight Kaikoura was Captain James Cook in 1770 during his first voyage to New Zealand. However, it was not until the early 19th century that European whalers began to settle in the region. The establishment of whaling stations marked a new era in Kaikoura's history, with the area becoming a bustling hub for whaling activities. European settlers brought significant changes to the region, impacting the local Māori population and the environment.

The whaling industry was central to Kaikoura's economy from the early 1800s until the 1920s. Whaling stations were established along the coast, and the town grew as a result of the industry’s success. Whalers hunted various species, including sperm and right whales, which were abundant in the region's waters. This era left a lasting impact on Kaikoura's culture and heritage, with many residents tracing their ancestry back to whalers.

In 1945, the completion of the South Island Main Trunk Railway brought significant economic development to Kaikoura. The railway provided a crucial link between Christchurch and Picton, facilitating trade and travel. This development led to an increase in tourism and commerce, transforming Kaikoura into a more connected and prosperous community.

In the late 20th century, Kaikoura began to reinvent itself as a premier eco-tourism destination. The town’s commitment to marine conservation attracted tourists from around the globe eager to experience its unique marine life. The establishment of whale watching tours in 1987 marked the beginning of this new era. Today, Kaikoura is renowned for its sustainable tourism practices and its efforts to protect the natural environment.

On November 14, 2016, Kaikoura was struck by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake, causing significant damage to the town and surrounding areas. The quake resulted in landslides, infrastructure damage, and temporarily cut off access to the town. The community’s resilience and the rapid response in rebuilding efforts showcased the strength and unity of Kaikoura’s residents. The earthquake also led to geological changes, such as the uplifting of the seabed, which have since become points of interest for scientists and tourists alike.

Kaikoura is located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. The nearest major airport is Christchurch International Airport, approximately 180 kilometers away. From Christchurch, you can drive to Kaikoura via State Highway 1, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train on the Coastal Pacific line, offering scenic views along the way. There are also intercity bus services that connect Christchurch to Kaikoura.

Kaikoura is a compact town, making it easy to explore on foot. For those looking to venture further afield, rental cars are available and provide the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Local taxis are also available. For those interested in eco-friendly options, bicycles can be rented from local shops. Public transport within Kaikoura is limited, but the town is well-connected by road to other parts of the South Island.

The official currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are readily available throughout Kaikoura, and many places also offer contactless payment options. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in more remote areas where card payments may not be accepted.

Kaikoura is generally a safe destination for tourists. It is important to take standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being vigilant in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. The town is known for its natural beauty, so be mindful of weather conditions and sea safety if participating in water activities.

In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The local medical center in Kaikoura can handle most health issues, but for serious conditions, patients may need to be transferred to a larger hospital in Christchurch. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in Kaikoura can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health concerns.

Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Casual and comfortable clothing is recommended. Religion: Do respect local customs, although Kaikoura is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do plan ahead as public transport is limited. Taxis and rental cars are more reliable options. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Kia Ora', the Māori greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies like crayfish. Don't forget to book in advance for popular restaurants, especially during peak seasons.

To experience Kaikoura like a local, take a stroll along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for stunning coastal views. Visit the local farmers market on weekends to buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals at cafes and pubs to hear stories about the town's history and marine life. Don’t miss the chance to go whale watching, a signature activity in Kaikoura, and try to explore some lesser-known spots like the Ohau Stream Walk where you can see baby seals.