Kaikōura District is located in the northeastern South Island. It covers approximately 2,046 square kilometres and has a population of about 4,215. The district council is based in Kaikōura township.

Tourism is the mainstay of the economy, with agriculture, fishing and related services also playing important roles. The district is a renowned New Zealand ecotourism destination, particularly for marine wildlife experiences involving whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds.

In 2016, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake severely damaged roads, railways and tourism facilities in Kaikōura District. Post-earthquake reconstruction gradually restored transport infrastructure, and tourism recovered significantly. In recent years, the district has also actively developed emerging tourism activities such as hiking, cycling and stargazing.

The current mayor is Craig Mackle.