Catch & Cook Kai Moana Experience: Fresh Seafood Fishing and Cooking on Kaikōura’s Coast
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required for standing during fishing and participation in cooking class.
Overview
Experience Kaikōura’s coastal marine bounty firsthand—fish for fresh seafood, then master cooking your catch with expert chefs at Hapuku Kitchen. This 6.5-hour trip blends adventure, culture, and cuisine along New Zealand's stunning South Island coast.
Catch & Cook – Kai Moana Experience
From $2130 • All Levels • 6.5 hours • Ocean-to-Plate
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About This Adventure
Embark on a unique culinary adventure along the stunning Kaikōura coast! Spend two hours fishing for fresh seafood, then join a cooking class at Hapuku Kitchen to learn how to prepare and enjoy your catch. Savor your meal with local wines or craft beers, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Catch your own kai moana (seafood) on the beautiful Kaikōura coast and then head to Hapuku Kitchen to prepare and enjoy your catch
Duration & Guest Numbers
6.5 Hours - 6 guests maximum
About
Come and experience the Kaikōura coastline and its abundantly rich aquatic life and wide range of kai moana (seafood). A combo of fishing for 2 hours and then taking your catch into the kitchen to learn to fillet and cook your catch.
Starting with Malcolm from Top Catch Charters for a fun packed fishing trip to catch your main seafood ingredients. Once your back on shore, spend the afternoon at Hapuku Kitchen with Fiona Read and learn the art of preparing and cooking your own fresh catch before sitting down with a glass of local wine or beer, to enjoy your well-earned feast.
What’s Included
- 2 Hour Private Fishing Charter with Top Catch Charters Kaikoura
- Safe, chilled transportation of your prize catch to Hapuku Kitchen
- Half day cooking school experience where you will forage for fresh ingredients
- Learn how to scale/fillet your catch and prepare a whole crayfish
- Learn how to prepare your catch in a variety of ways including smoking and grilling
- Relax and enjoy your feast, accompanied with local wines or locally brewed craft beers
- A recipe booklet to take home
- Great stories and lifetime memories!
- Refreshments will be available throughout the day, as well the feast you have helped to prepare. All ingredients, equipment and recipes will be provided.
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies
When making your booking, please inform our team about any food allergies.
Adventure Tips
Bring layered clothing
Kaikōura’s coastal weather can change rapidly; layering helps you stay comfortable from fishing to cooking.
Use sun protection
Wear sunscreen and a hat during the fishing portion to protect yourself from strong coastal sun.
Stay hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated through the active fishing and cooking sessions.
Arrive with an appetite
You’ll work up a hunger catching seafood, so come ready to enjoy a fresh, delicious meal.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sperm whales frequently visible offshore during boat trips.
- Dusky dolphins often play near fishing boats in the bay.
History
Kaikōura has a strong Māori fishing heritage and has been a hub for marine conservation since the establishment of the Kaikōura Marine Mammal Sanctuary in 1988.
Conservation
This tour emphasizes sustainable fishing practices to protect local marine ecosystems and supports community-based eco-tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kaikōura
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and spray on the boat along Kaikōura’s coast.
Non-slip shoes
Ensures safety on wet boat decks and kitchen floors.
Sun hat
Provides shade during sunny hours on the water.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through the day’s activities.