This seaside village on Bank’s Peninsula has a distinctive French ambience owing to its early European settlers. The region was almost claimed by France until Great Britain got wind of the idea.
To this day French colonial architecture is apparent and the French street names have remained. Set against the steep hills which border the beautiful harbour, the town has that get away from it all feel.
Action adventure
Swimming with the Hector’s dolphins; four day Banks Peninsula Walk; mountain biking.
Moderate activities
Walk to the lighthouse; 4WD expedition to the white flippered penguin colony and fur seal colony.
Relaxing activities
Akaroa Harbour cruise; browsing the many craft shops; visit French Farm Winery and Barry’s Bay cheese factory; visit the Lavender Farm; Blue Pearl centre crafts; Giant’s House garden.
Children and young families
Feed the ducks on the seafront; swim at the beach through summer; excellent waterfront playground; picnic at French Bay; Okains Bay Maori and Early Settlers Museum.
Luxury motel accommodation in Akaroa,centrally located just three minutes walk to the main waterfront cafe strip and wharf. Stay here for self catering studio, 1 and 2 bedroom units...
