The Pier Hotel and Restaurant

The Pier Hotel is an historic building having been built especially for the fishing fleet and whalers at the turn of the 19th century. Some 122 years on...

The Hotel has had many owners and just as many colourful characters over the years. It is currently owned by a gentleman who also owns other establishments, but prefers to be a hands on owner in this Hotel. With the breathtaking views the hotel enjoys, you will see why he chooses to live and work in Kaikoura.

The uniqueness of this Kaikoura icon, apart from the breathtaking views of the Kaikoura Ranges and Ingles Bay, is that it still retains the appearance and charm of yesteryear, even though it has had to endure small facelifts over the years. It is a true 'kiwiana' pub style residence with modern touches that enhance its comfort and ambience. ... [+] More Plenty of car parking is available on site.

The 10 rooms upstairs in the hotel are configured into singles, twins and king-bed rooms, all with share facilities as in keeping with the 122-year-old era of the hotel. The majority of the rooms have access onto the sunny balcony, where many breakfasts and evening cocktails have been enjoyed to the sound and smell of the sea, sun and views. Sunrise and sunsets viewed from the balcony are in a word—awesome!

The cosy bar in the hotel has a fireplace and window benches from which to enjoy the views. The walls are adorned with ancient photos of yesteryear highlighting the history of the hotel and fishing heritage of the area. The main restaurant has a warm ambience and friendly feel.

The menu changes seasonally to enable diners, both locals and visitors, to partake of the freshest produce available. The hotel has a reputation for serving some of the best seafood and aged beef available. No wonder this place is rated as one of the best seafood restaurants in the region.

Local fishing boats speckle the bay and on fine mornings many amateur boaties can be seen zipping about trying their luck with fishing and cray pots. Groups of dolphins and orcas can often be seen frolicking in the bay along with a regular lone bull fur seal.