As Kaikoura's biggest tourist season begins, forecasts for the town's economy remain up in the air.

One month on and access to Kaikoura is improving, with State Highway One south of the town available to the public before Christmas.

But, the town thrives off of tourism to survive, and although government support packages are being handed out, there are still fears for the economy's longevity.

Kaikoura Mayor Winston Gray told Mike Hosking people are holding it together in anticipation of the re-opening of State Highway One.

"I mean there's not too many people coming into the village itself, so not much spend going on through the shops, through the hotel bars, restaurants," he said.

Gray said getting back on the water will be a big plus for the town's tourism industry.

"If we can get the boats on the water, the recreational and commercial, then that's going to be a big help."

Dolphin cruises, seal sightings and whale watching are all major draw cards for the seaside town.

LISTEN ABOVE AS KAIKOURA MAYOR WINSTON GRAY SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING