Ohau Point

Ohau Point, a dramatic headland on the Kaikōura coast, is one of New Zealand's most reliable spots to see New Zealand fur seals up close. The rugged limestone outcrops and wild surf create a stunning backdrop for wildlife watching, and the short walk to the seal colony is a must for any traveller driving State Highway 1.

Highlights & What to See

• Ohau Point Seal Colony: Hundreds of fur seals lounge on the rocks and in the surf – pups often play in tidal pools. A fenced viewing platform off the highway offers safe, close-up views.
• Ohau Stream Walk: A 20-minute forest walk leads to a waterfall where seal pups swim in the pool – best visited May to September.
• Coastal Scenery: The wild Kaikōura coastline with turquoise water, white limestone, and snow-capped mountains in the distance.
• Whale Watching: Combine with a Kaikōura whale-watching trip to see sperm whales, dusky dolphins, and albatross.
• Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway: A nearby coastal walk with seal colonies, tide pools, and panoramic views.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 30–45 minutes to visit the seal colony and do the Ohau Stream walk. If you're driving between Christchurch and Kaikōura, this is an easy 20-minute detour from the highway. For a fuller day, combine with whale watching and the Peninsula Walkway in Kaikōura town, which is just 20 minutes south.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kaikōura: Whale watching, dolphin encounters, and excellent seafood – the crayfish capital of NZ.
• Kaikōura Peninsula: A scenic walkway with seals, seabirds, and sweeping views of the Seaward Kaikōura Range.
• Mangamaunu Beach: A wild, black-sand beach popular with surfers and a great picnic spot.
• Hundalee Hills: Scenic drive through native bush with views over the coast.
• Oaro: A small settlement with a coastal walk and seal sightings.

Please check official sources for current details.