Akaroa

A historic settlement located 75km south of Christchurch, this beautiful town has retained its French and British roots, showcasing impressive colonial architecture which are home to a myriad of craft stores, cafes, and galleries.

Surrounded by natural wonders, Akaroa sits at the heart of an ancient volcano. Highly eroded, it has formed the majority of the Banks Peninsula, with Lyttelton Harbour on one side, and Akaroa on the other.

Home to the largest penguin colony on mainland New Zealand, the turquoise waters surrounding Akaroa are also home to the rarest and smallest marine dolphin. Experience the natural wonders by sea kayak, cruise, cycle tours, sail boat, walking tracks, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, treat yourself to an eco ‘swimming with dolphins’ tour.

With a number of accommodation options to choose from, from motor lodges, to campsites, to Airbnb’s, to hostels, to apartments or architecturally historic homes, Akaroa is the perfect place to relax for a weekend getaway, or explore on a day trip from Christchurch.