Seal Colony Ohau Point

Just north of Kaikōura, Ohau Point is where the raw Pacific coast meets a thriving seal colony that has become one of New Zealand's most accessible wildlife encounters. The air smells of salt and sea spray as you watch hundreds of New Zealand fur seals—pups tumbling over rocks, adults hauling out after a day at sea—all against a backdrop of jagged cliffs and crashing surf. It's a raw, unfiltered nature show that costs nothing but your attention.

Highlights & What to See

• Seal Colony Viewing Platform – A short boardwalk leads to an elevated platform offering front-row seats to the colony. Early morning or late afternoon brings the most activity, with seals swimming, nursing pups, and bellowing from the rocks below.
• Ohau Waterfall Walk – A brief 10-minute stroll from the carpark leads to a waterfall where seal pups sometimes play in the freshwater pool—a magical sight if you're lucky.
• Whale Watching – Combine your seal visit with a whale-watching tour from Kaikōura; sperm whales and humpbacks are regulars just offshore, often visible from the colony itself.
• Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway – A stunning coastal walk just south, where you can spot seals, seabirds, and maybe even penguins from the clifftop trail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 30–45 minutes at the colony, including time on the viewing platform and a quick walk to the waterfall. If you're combining with a whale-watching trip or the Peninsula Walkway, plan for a half-day in total. The colony is a perfect quick stop on a drive between Christchurch and the Marlborough Sounds—pull over, breathe in the ocean air, and watch the seals do what they do best.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kaikōura – The town itself is a hub for marine tours, fresh seafood, and the scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway.
• Marlborough Wine Region – An hour north, world-class sauvignon blanc and cellar doors await in Blenheim and Renwick.
• Hanmer Springs – Inland hot pools and alpine adventures are a scenic 1.5-hour drive west.

Please check official sources for current details.