Toms Track (Kaikoura)

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.

Getting There

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.

Wildlife Spotting

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.

• Hutton’s Shearwater (Kaikōura Tītī): Keep an eye out during spring and summer. Kaikōura is the only place in the world where these birds breed, high up in the mountains you see from the track. You’ll often see them rafting in large numbers out on the water.
• Pied Shags & Red-billed Gulls: These are your constant companions along the coast. The gulls, in particular, are very active around the cliffs.
• Fantails (Pīwakawaka): In the pine-covered sections of the track, these friendly little birds will often "flit" alongside you, hunting the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Wandering Albatross: While they usually stay further out at sea, if you have a pair of binoculars at the lookout, you might be lucky enough to spot the massive wingspan of an albatross gliding over the offshore canyons.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Kaikōura is a year-round destination, and Toms Track changes beautifully with the seasons:

• Spring: This is arguably the best time to visit. The mountains are still heavily capped with snow, providing a brilliant white contrast against the blue ocean, and the Hutton's Shearwaters are returning to their mountain burrows.
• Summer: Perfect for a morning walk before the heat of the day sets in. The coastal breeze is refreshing, but the track is exposed in parts, so sun protection (hat and sunscreen) is essential.
• Autumn & Winter: The air is crisp and clear, often providing the best visibility for long-range photos.

• Check the Wind: Kaikōura is notorious for its "nor'westers" and southerly fronts. The track is exposed once you leave the trees, so a windproof jacket is a must-bring, even on a sunny day.
• Timing: Early morning or late afternoon provides the "golden hour" light that makes the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges glow orange and pink.
• Footwear: While it’s an easy track, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are recommended. You don't need heavy hiking boots, but leave the flip-flops for the beach.

Local & Regional Context

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.

After the Walk

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:

• Coopers Catch (0.8km away): You can’t visit Kaikōura without having fish and chips. Grab some fresh blue cod or a local crayfish and sit at their outdoor tables with a view of the mountains you just climbed.
• Hiku Restaurant (0.4km away): For something a bit more stylish, Hiku offers fantastic New Zealand fare with a modern twist. Their outdoor patio is the perfect spot for a post-hike drink.
• Sime’s Kitchen or Beach House Cafe: If you’re a coffee lover, both of these are local favourites. Beach House Cafe is set in a charming hundred-year-old villa and does an incredible breakfast menu if you’ve finished an early morning walk.
• The Pier Hotel: If you want a classic Kiwi pub experience with "the best view in town," this is the spot. It’s a great place to chat with locals and hear more stories about the region’s history.

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.

Cafe Encounter

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.