Kaikoura
Welcome to Kaikoura, a Temperate island in the South Pacific Ocean, part of the majestic Pacific Ocean. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of what makes Kaikoura unique – from its geography and climate to its population, infrastructure, and beyond. Dive into the details:
- Geography and Size: Explore the island’s size and location.
- Climate and Weather: Weather patterns and temperature.
- Topography and Nature: Uncover the natural wonders of the island.
- Infrastructure and Travelling: Insights on reaching, staying, and making the most of your visit.
- News and Headlines: Latest News.
Geography and size of Kaikoura
Size: 5.526 km²
Coastline: 16.8 km
Ocean: Pacific Ocean
Sea: South Pacific Ocean
Continent: Oceania
Kaikoura is a Small Island spanning 5.5 km² with a coastline of 16.8 km.
Archipel: Polynesia – A region of more than 1,000 islands in the central and southern Pacific Ocean, known for their diverse Polynesian cultures, stunning landscapes, and marine biodiversity.
Tectonic Plate: Australia – A major tectonic plate covering Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, known for its relative stability and occasional seismic activity.
The geographic heart of the island is pinpointed at these coordinates:
Latitude: -36.17619613 / Longitude: 175.32526152
Climate and weather of Kaikoura
Climate Zone: Temperate
Climate Details: Temperate Oceanic Climate
Temperature: Warm Summer
Climate Characteristics: Known for its moderate year-round temperatures with ample rainfall and no dry season. Warm summers are characteristic.
Topography and nature of Kaikoura
Timezone: UTC+12:00
Timezone places: Pacific/Auckland
Max. Elevation: 100 m
Mean Elevation: 65 m
Vegetation: Evergreen Needleleaf Forest
Tree Coverage: 91%
The mean elevation is 65 m. The highest elevation on the island reaches approximately 100 meters above sea level. The island is characterized by Plains: Flat, low-lying lands characterized by a maximum elevation of up to 200 meters. On islands, plains are typically coastal lowlands or central flat areas.
Dominating Vegetation: Evergreen Needleleaf Forest
Dominated by evergreen coniferous trees such as pines and firs, which retain their needle-like leaves throughout the year. These forests are often found in cooler climates. Kaikoura has a tree cover of 91 %.
Vegetation: 3 vegetation zones – Moderately Diverse Island
These islands start to show a broader range of ecological niches. With three vegetation zones, they may offer a mix of ecosystems like coastal areas, inland woods, and perhaps a distinct wetland or dry area. This diversity supports a wider range of flora and fauna, making these islands more ecologically complex than those with minimal diversity.
Infrastructure and Travelling to Kaikoura
Does the island have a public airport? no.
There is no public and scheduled airport on Kaikoura. The nearest airport is Auckland International Airport, located 109 km away.
Does the island have a major port? no.
There are no major ports on Kaikoura. The closest major port is AUCKLAND, approximately 96 km away.
The mean population of Kaikoura is 1 per km². Kaikoura is Uninhabited. The island belongs to New Zealand.
Continuing your journey, Great Barrier is the next notable island, situated merely km away.
Join us exploring Kaikoura Island, Great Barrier Island, NZ
New Zealand is classified as Developed region: G7: Group of Seven – Major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The level of income is High income: OECD.
News – Latest Updates and Headlines from Kaikoura
Stay informed with the most recent news and important headlines from Kaikoura. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments.
Please note: The data used here has been primarily extracted from satellite readings. Deviations from exact values may occur, particularly regarding the height of elevations and population density. Land area and coastline measurements refer to average values at mean high tide.