Tucked into the heart of an ancient volcanic crater and nestled beside sparkling blue waters, Akaroa is a town unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. With its French flair, dolphin-filled harbour, colourful cottages, and dramatic Banks Peninsula scenery, Akaroa is a hidden gem that blends history, culture, and nature in the most beautiful way.
Just 1.5 hours’ drive from Christchurch, Akaroa feels like stepping into another world, slower, sunnier, and full of surprises.
Bonjour! Discover Akaroa’s French Flair
Akaroa is New Zealand’s only French settlement, founded in 1840 by French colonists who gave the town its name, street signs, and European elegance.
Things to Do in Town:
- Stroll Rue Lavaud & Rue Jolie – Akaroa’s historic streets lined with French-named shops, bakeries, and pastel villas.
- Akaroa Museum – Small but packed with stories about Māori heritage, French settlement, and the volcanic past of the Banks Peninsula.
- French Markets & Artisan Stores – Browse local art, lavender products, jewellery, and handmade goods.
- Sip a local rosé or enjoy a buttery croissant at one of the French cafés.
You’ll see the tricolour flying, smell freshly baked baguettes, and hear locals greet you with a cheerful bonjour.
Meet Hector’s Dolphins in the Wild
Akaroa Harbour is one of the best places in the world to see Hector’s dolphins—the smallest and rarest dolphins on Earth.
Top Wildlife Experiences:
- Swim with Dolphins – Jump in the water (with a wetsuit!) and experience a truly magical encounter as curious dolphins approach and swim around you.
- Harbour Nature Cruise – Stay dry on a scenic cruise while spotting dolphins, fur seals, penguins, and sea birds.
- Kayaking Adventures – Glide through calm bays and sea caves, with the chance to encounter marine life at water level.
These protected dolphins are playful, gentle, and a true highlight of any trip to Akaroa.
Epic Views & Coastal Hikes
Akaroa is surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Banks Peninsula, formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. Nature lovers, photographers, and hikers will find paradise here.
Best Walks & Lookouts:
- The Giants House Gardens – A surreal and colourful sculpture garden filled with mosaics, art, and whimsy like Gaudí meets Wonderland.
- Akaroa Lighthouse – A short walk to the restored historic lighthouse with views over the harbour.
- Banks Track (multi-day) – One of NZ’s best private walking trails, winding through cliffs, native bush, waterfalls, and remote bays.
- Purple Peak Track & Newton’s Waterfall – A scenic day walk with sweeping vistas and forested trails.
Food, Wine & Flavour
Akaroa has a vibrant food scene built on fresh, local ingredients and a coastal-meets-French vibe.
Must-Try:
- Akaroa Salmon – Locally farmed and some of the best in the world.
- French Farm Winery – A boutique vineyard with garden dining and award-winning wines.
- Ma Maison – Elegant lakeside dining with French bistro charm.
- Murphy’s on the Corner – A relaxed spot for fish and chips by the water.
- Sweet As Bakery – Known for its buttery croissants, éclairs, and fresh-baked pastries.
Explore at Your Own Pace
- Hire a bike or e-bike and ride the scenic coastal roads.
- Take a scenic drive to Flea Bay, Pigeon Bay, or the Okains Bay Māori & Colonial Museum.
- Go stargazing—with little light pollution, Akaroa’s skies are brilliant and full of stars.
Where to Stay
Akaroa has accommodation for every style:
- Luxury lodges with harbour views
- Boutique B&Bs in historic French homes
- Seaside holiday cottages for couples or families
- Well-equipped campgrounds and glamping options
Try:
- The Akaroa Village Inn
- Bon Accord House
- French Bay House
- Or a cosy AirBnB overlooking the harbour
Top Things to Do in Akaroa
🇫🇷 Experience Akaroa’s French Heritage
- Stroll Rue Lavaud & Rue Jolie – Explore historic French-named streets lined with cafés, boutiques, and colourful colonial cottages.
- Visit the Akaroa Museum – Learn about the town’s Māori roots, French settlers, and volcanic origins.
- Enjoy French cuisine – Indulge in croissants, cheese platters, and fine local wines at French-inspired cafés and restaurants.
Meet Marine Wildlife
- Swim with Hector’s Dolphins – Join a guided tour and swim alongside the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin species.
- Take a Harbour Cruise – Spot dolphins, seals, little blue penguins, and seabirds while learning about Akaroa’s geology and history.
- Kayak the Harbour – Paddle through calm waters, sea caves, and secluded bays with a chance to encounter marine life up close.
Explore Gardens & Art
- The Giants House – A whimsical sculpture and mosaic garden filled with colourful surprises and stunning views.
- Browse Local Art Galleries – Discover local paintings, jewellery, and ceramics inspired by the Banks Peninsula landscape.
Enjoy Scenic Walks & Lookouts
- Akaroa Lighthouse Walk – A short walk to a historic lighthouse with panoramic harbour views.
- Purple Peak Track – A challenging climb with breathtaking vistas across the peninsula.
- Banks Track (multi-day) – A private coastal hike through farmland, native bush, and rugged cliffs.
- Newton’s Waterfall Walk – A short, peaceful forest walk to a hidden waterfall.
Savour Local Food & Wine
- Taste Akaroa Salmon – Try it fresh, smoked, or in gourmet dishes around town.
- Wine tasting at French Farm Winery – Sample Central Otago varietals in a charming garden setting.
- Dine at Ma Maison or The Little Bistro – For a blend of French and Kiwi fine dining.
Adventure & Exploration
- Cycle around the harbour – Hire a bike or e-bike and explore scenic bays and countryside roads.
- Drive to Flea Bay or Okains Bay – Discover hidden beaches, wildlife colonies, and remote beauty.
- Visit Okains Bay Māori & Colonial Museum – Learn about local iwi and early settler life in a peaceful rural setting.
Soak in the Quiet & the Stars
- Relax by the harbour – Enjoy sunsets, beach walks, or a peaceful coffee by the water.
- Stargazing – With minimal light pollution, Akaroa is perfect for spotting constellations and even the Milky Way.
Final Thoughts
Akaroa is a place where French history, wild nature, and South Island charm come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re sipping wine on a sun-soaked terrace, kayaking with dolphins, or exploring quiet bays at sunset, Akaroa has a way of slowing you down and making you smile.
It’s not just a day trip from Christchurch it’s a destination that deserves time, curiosity, and a good camera.
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