If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, head an hour and a half southeast of Christchurch and onto the gorgeous Banks Peninsula, where you will find the picturesque town of Akaroa. Akaroa is nestled amongst a sharp volcanic landscape and is Canterbury’s oldest town, established by French settlers in 1804. Whether it’s sightseeing and exploring Akaroa, touring the historic sites, eating excellent cuisine, or venturing further afield for outdoor activities, there’s much to see in New Zealand’s only French settlement.
1. Cruise the Akaroa Harbour
It’s impossible to resist Akaroa’s magnificent harbour. With dolphins frolicking in the waters and serene views of the mountains that encircle the town. There are a few cruise options to consider. If you’d like to tick off a bucket list experience and swim with the world’s smallest dolphin – the hector dolphin – then consider booking with Black Cat’s Dolphin Cruise. Everything is provided, including a wet suit and mask. When necessary, gloves and hoods are given. Go on, give it a go!
If you’d prefer to stay dry you can enjoy the 2-hour Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise with Black Cat Cruises. The cruise will take you on a journey around an extinct volcanic crater to see magnificent scenery and fantastic wildlife. Discover unique and playful New Zealand Hector’s dolphins, native fur seals, penguins, and other seabirds.
2. Kayaking in the Pohatu Marine Reserve
Kayaks are a great way to explore the Akaroa Pohatu Marine Reserve. You can either bring your kayak or rent one from a local operator (like the Akaroa Adventure Centre) and hit the water, surrounded by native fauna such as penguins and potentially sea lions. Kayaking is also great for spotting the rare Hector dolphins that frequent the Peninsula and marine reserve. The reserve is located in Flea Bay, along the Banks Peninsula southeastern shore, and features adorable penguins and a seal colony.
If you loved kayaking here, you’ll love the places listed in The Best Places For Kayaking in New Zealand.
3. Visit The Giant’s House
The Giant’s House is a historic Akaroa house that has been converted into an artistic retreat. With a gallery full of objects from around the world, including topiaries made from trees that have been shaped to resemble animals such as rabbits, walruses and dinosaurs, it is well worth a visit. Wander around and see the abundance of beautiful flowerbeds. Listed as a Garden of International Significance, the garden will pull you into a playful, whimsical, extraordinary wonderland that will be sure to make you smile. The Giant’s House is usually open daily from 11am – 4pm.
Discover even more incredible gardens with our list of the Top New Zealand Gardens to Visit.
4. Visit Akaroa Museum / Te Whare Taonga
If your passion is history, then you will love exploring Akaroa’s small yet fascinating museum. The museum chronicles the town’s development, especially its 19th-century British and French colonial history. On display are artefacts from Maori history as well as the local European settlers who came in 1838. It’s a great place to learn more about the town and its history. The Akaroa Museum was founded in 1964 around the Langlois-Eteveneaux House, a rare reminder of the French colony. Since then, the museum has included three long-term exhibition galleries, a temporary exhibitions gallery, and a shop. The historical Akaroa Court House and Customs House are also under the care of the museum. Usually open seven days a week and admission is free.
5. Hike the Akaroa Head Scenic Reserve (40-mins return)
A short walk around the Akaroa Head Scenic Reserve reveals remnants of the early settlers, stunning views, and fascinating wildlife. The walk follows the road down from the car park, past the foundations of the lighthouse keepers’ house and other structures, to the location of the old lighthouse. Along this stretch of coast, there are amazing views out over towering cliffs and towards the mouth of the Akaroa Harbour. Because it’s exposed to the elements, expect shifting weather conditions, so make sure to bring a jacket to wrap up.
6. See the Historical Akaroa Lighthouse
Just a lazy stroll from the township of Akaroa, this gorgeous 19th-century Lighthouse is a testament to the importance of sea travel in Akaroa’s history. The first Akaroa lighthouse began operating on the sharp headland of Akaroa Heads on January 1, 1880. After being replaced in 1977 by an automated light, it was moved to the Akaroa Township one hundred years later. The Lighthouse is manned on Sunday’s between 11 am – 2 pm by the Akaroa Preservation Society members – meaning if you want an unofficial guided tour of the lighthouse, then Sunday is the day to go!
7. Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory
If you are a food-lover, you need to schedule a stop at Barry’s Cheese factory, with its cheese tasting bar. The first cheese was first made in 1895 when the farm was part of 9 other cooperatives dotted around the peninsula. Today it’s the last one standing. The artisan cheeses are handmade on-site and come with an incredible array of flavours that will have you coming back for more! The shop is open every day from 9am to 5pm.
8. Visit the Historically Significant Okains Bay Museum
Located just 20 minutes out of Akaroa, on the Banks Peninsula, Okains Bay Museum is an extensive museum and arts centre housed in a beautiful wooden building with topiary gardens and coastal views. The museum vividly evokes the history of early Māori and Pākehā life, with more than 20,000 artefacts on display. The museum features a working blacksmith’s shop, print shop, colonial hall, gun room and even a waka shed. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
9. Stroll through the Garden of Tāne
This unique garden and woodland offer a child’s dream come true. A dark forest with tall trees and a hidden undergrowth lies within this untamed region. The enormous trees are mostly exotic conifers and oaks, many of which are almost 150 years old. Native plants, such as several big kanuka and young nikau palms, make up the balance of the forestation. There are stunning views of the Akaroa Harbour from various vantage points. Found within the garden are two historically significant cemeteries, as Akaroa was the first European-constructed village in what would become Canterbury. Access the loop at the end of Rue Jolie Road, Akaroa.
10. Akaroa French Festival (April 29 – 01 May 2022)
The Akaroa French Festival is a celebration of all that French culture has to offer. The biennial festival celebrates the unique culture and heritage of New Zealand’s sole French settlement and the boutique harbourside town of Akaroa.
It boasts a diverse and exciting program with plenty of action starting on Friday, with the official opening and a party atmosphere that extends through to a historical re-enactment of the arrival of the original settlers on Saturday morning at the beach. Then, later in the afternoon, a Parade leads down to Heritage Marquee for a French Market Day, food and beverages, live music, stalls, and entertainment. Le Cabaret in the evening is one of the highlights; it features outstanding variety acts blended with burlesque and comedy.
