with knowing nothing of Kaikoura, we stopped in after coming across Lewis Pass from Greymouth. we considered ourselves lucky as many of the places were sporting "no vacancy" signs. Carole and Geoff are friendly and efficient hosts. their accommodations are very clean and the view out over the bay is inviting. being right across the street from the beach, swimming proved to be easy and refreshing. my wife and i ended up staying a week as we wanted to catch our breath, kick back and soak up some local color before returning to the states. our 2 1/2 month visit to New Zealand allowed up to stay in about 30 different places. motels, hotels, b&b, bach and backpackers. the Blue Seas Motels is easily in the top 5 of all these. the Pollards are folks who genuinely care for their guests.

The motel is on the Esplanade but is set at right angles to the road so the sea is not visible from the units. There is a lawn and a seat in the front of the motel and the beach is just across the road. The motels at this end of town are much quieter than those nearer the centre. This is an older motel, with a very friendly couple running it. The old units are very dated, the upgraded ones are less so. Our newer unit was clean and had everything we needed and we would be very happy to stay again.

My daughter, her baby and I stayed here over Christmas. We can't speak highly enough of these motels. They are at the quiet end of Kaikoura and we found them comfortable and very clean. Everything you need was there. The hosts, Carol and Geoff were friendly, obliging and helpful. Our two bedroom unit was comfortable and very well equipped. Queen and single beds in each bedroom. Highchair and baby bath offered for our baby.

We recommend these motels highly and would certainly stay there again.

Whenever visiting Kaikoura, I always prefer to stay on the Esplanade, away from the noise and crowds of the town centre. This part of Kaikoura also offers the best views of the bay and mountains.

Blue Seas Motel is one of the motels on the Esplanade with average rooms, but a nice lawn in front. They offered a good off season rate which we availed.

The manager/owner was helpful with all the information we needed about the sightseeing, meals, etc.

When in Kaikoura, do drive down to the seal colony. You can even touch the seals, they are so closeby. On the way, you can stop for the crayfish stall and have a reasonably priced meal. Also do not miss the views at the water tank on hill behind the motel.