Kaikoura has continually been building its reputation over the years and attracting well-deserved attention in the tourism industry. It’s positioned beautifully as a surfer’s paradise, premier whale watching site, and you’ll definitely get your fur seal fix driving along the coastline. But what if I told you its offerings were as diverse and awe inspiring as their region. Where mountains collide into the sea is where a community deeply tied to the land creates absolute culinary magic and luxury experiences in a way that is raw, exceptional, and unlike any other.
Esses Winery, Hapuku Kitchen, and Mt. Fyffe Gin Distillery all deserve a spot on the itinerary as you eat and drink your way through Kaikoura.

Esses is a boutique local winery that solely grows and produces Methode Traditionelle Wine. This is incredibly rare for the region and almost unheard of in NZ. The property is a charming cottage that you would miss on the road if you didn’t know there was treasure to be found. Stepping into the tasting room offers an inviting and elegant tasting experience that is highly educational without being inaccessible. Needless to say, I left with a bottle.

Cooking classes have never been top of mind for me when I think of traveling outside of Europe, but this is an experience and location that can’t be missed. Another charming, non-suspect home tucked a few roads off the beaten path, Hapuku Kitchen is a truly stunning property that has been curated to offer luxury and comfort without the snobbery. They are the definition of farm to table with their animals and garden just out the back door- did I mention you hop out of your heli flight on their front door? Not only do they offer full day and half day cooking classes, they offer experiences such as foraging off the land or fishing in the sea and then preparing your bounty to enjoy with loved ones. To top it off, they’ve rolled out a luxury transfer experience that features stops to local suppliers, feasting in coveted local locations along the journey, and all the creature comforts you could ask for (barista coffee out the back with view anyone?).

Last, but certainly not least is Mt. Fyffe Gin Distillery. This is top tier, multi-award winning boutique gin. And fitting to the theme, you would never suspect what a find it is if you were just driving past. Located on a still operational sheep/beef farm, the owner and maker, Justine, offers tasting in the garage turned distillery where it all began. Every botanical and inspiration comes from the very land she works and the places she loves. This can’t be missed.

These suppliers work alongside each other and many others in Kaikoura. They do not compete, they collaborate to deliver excellence to customers. If you can imagine your ideal itinerary here, they can do it.
Kaikoura deserves so much more than one or two nights- it’s not a pit stop, it is the destination.
You just have to know where to look….