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Kaikoura
2.6 km
42 minutes
48 metres
If you are looking for a walk that captures the very soul of Kaikōura—where the jagged, snow-capped mountains dive straight into the turquoise Pacific—then Toms Track is your perfect starting point. It is a short, sweet, and deeply meaningful stretch of trail that offers some of the best "bang for your buck" views in the Canterbury region. Whether you are a local taking the dog for a morning leg-stretch or a visitor looking for that quintessential postcard photo, this trail delivers in spades.
At just 2.6 kilometres and taking roughly 40 minutes to complete, Toms Track is classified as an easy walk, making it accessible for almost everyone. But don’t let the "easy" label fool you; the visual rewards are world-class.
The journey begins on Torquay Street, right in the heart of the Kaikōura township. From here, the track gently winds its way upward, leading you through peaceful stands of pine trees. The air here often carries a mix of salty sea spray and the earthy scent of pine needles—a uniquely New Zealand coastal aroma. The terrain is well-formed and underfoot it feels solid, though you’ll want to watch your step after heavy rain as the coastal soil can get a bit tacky.
As you emerge from the trees onto Scarborough Terrace, the landscape opens up dramatically. The track follows a gradual incline toward a stunning lookout point. This is where the magic happens. On a clear day, the contrast is breathtaking: to your west, the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges tower over the landscape, often dusted with snow well into the spring. To the east, the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean stretches toward the horizon.
The track functions as a "point-to-point" connector, but it feels more like an invitation to explore. It’s wide enough for families to walk abreast, and because the elevation gain is a modest 48 metres, kids will find it more of an adventure than a chore. It is also one of the few designated sections near the town centre where you can bring your four-legged friends along for the journey, provided they remain on a lead.
The absolute crown jewel of this walk is the 360-degree lookout. From this vantage point, you can look down upon the Kaikōura Esplanade, watching the tiny cars move along the coast while the majestic mountains provide a silent, towering backdrop. It is, without a doubt, the best spot in town to capture a panoramic photo that encapsulates the region’s "mountains-to-sea" identity.
The trail begins on Torquay Street in Kaikōura township, where street parking is available. For those undertaking the wider Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, parking is also available at Point Kean and South Bay car parks.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Puffinus huttoni
This is the only seabird in the world known to breed in an alpine environment, with colonies high in the Seaward Kaikōura Range.
Best time: Spring-Summer
Eudyptula minor
These are the world's smallest penguins, known for their unique slate-blue feathers that help them camouflage in the ocean.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
400m away
A stylish restaurant inspired by Kaikōura's 'whale tail' (Hiku in Māori), celebrating local seafood, fresh produce, and dramatic sea and mountainscapes. Offers New Zealand fare with a kiwi twist in a relaxed space with an outdoor patio.
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Point to point
Beyond the views, Toms Track holds a poignant place in the hearts of the local community. The trail is named in honour of Tom Smith, a local fisherman who tragically lost his life in 2003 during a brave attempt to rescue a stranded whale. Walking this path serves as a quiet tribute to Tom and a reminder of the deep, sometimes perilous connection the people of Kaikōura have with the sea and its giants.
For those with more energy to burn, a major highlight is the track’s connectivity. It seamlessly links with the St Pauls Walkway and serves as a vital artery for the much longer Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway. You can easily transition from this short stroll into a full-day adventure, heading toward the famous seal colonies at Point Kean.
Finding the trailhead is straightforward. If you are staying in the Kaikōura township, you can simply walk to the start on Torquay Street. There is plenty of street parking available for those driving in from further afield.
If you are planning to make a day of it and tackle the full peninsula loop, you might prefer to park at the Point Kean or South Bay car parks and incorporate Toms Track as your return leg back into town. The township itself is very walkable, so you’re never more than a few minutes away from a good coffee or a view of the water.
Kaikōura is often called the marine life capital of New Zealand, and even on this short elevated track, you are likely to spot some incredible birdlife.
Kaikōura is a year-round destination, and Toms Track changes beautifully with the seasons:
The ground you are walking on is steeped in history. For centuries, the Kaikōura Peninsula (Te Tai o Marokura) has been a place of immense significance to Māori, specifically Ngāi Tahu. The area was rich in resources, from the kōura (crayfish) that gives the town its name to the various pā (fortified village) sites that once dotted the cliffs.
In the 19th century, the focus shifted to whaling, and you can still see remnants of this era in the historic buildings and whalebone arches found around the town. Today, the focus is entirely on conservation and eco-tourism. The 2016 earthquake also left its mark, lifting the seabed by several metres in places—from the lookout, you can see the "new" rocky platforms that were thrust out of the ocean during the event.
One of the best things about Toms Track is how close it is to some of the best kai (food) in the South Island. Once you’ve finished your walk, head back down into town to refuel:
Whether you're looking for a quick stretch of the legs or a meaningful connection to Kaikōura’s heritage, Toms Track is a small walk that leaves a big impression.
Phalacrocorax varius
This large black and white shag is a proficient underwater hunter, using its feet for propulsion, and is often seen drying its wings on coastal perches.
Best time: Year-round
Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae scopulinus
This native New Zealand gull is a common sight in coastal towns, easily identified by its bright red bill, eye-ring, and legs.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Diomedea exulans
One of the largest flying birds in the world, the Wandering Albatross boasts an impressive wingspan of up to 3.5 metres, often sighted offshore from Kaikōura.
Best time: Year-round
500m away
A beachfront cafe at 96 Esplanade, serving fresh and delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch with vegetarian and vegan options. It's the reception area for Dolphin and Albatross Encounter tours and offers indoor and outdoor seating with ocean views.
700m away
A charming and stylish eatery in downtown Kaikōura offering hearty, no-frills New Zealand cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Features open fireplaces, pool tables, and an impressive selection of local ales.
800m away
A popular fish and chip shop offering fresh, locally sourced seafood, including crayfish, mussels, and blue cod. It has ample outdoor seating with mountain views, perfect for a casual post-hike meal.
900m away
A popular cafe on Beach Road known for its diverse and interesting breakfast and lunch menu, offering unique twists on classic dishes and excellent coffee. Caters to various dietary needs, including vegan and vegetarian options.
900m away
A buzzing cafe housed in a hundred-year-old villa, offering great coffee, an all-day menu with in-house made breads and sauces, and a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its friendly service and back balcony views of the Kaikōura ranges.
1.2km away
A classic Kiwi pub and restaurant with arguably the best views in town, located right on the waterfront. Specialises in local seafood, especially crayfish, and offers a kids' play area and outdoor seating.