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Akaroa is a small seaside town located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its French heritage, relaxed waterfront, and close connection to nature. Just 90 minutes from Christchurch, it offers outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and good food. Its streets, lined with bistros and bakeries, reflect its past as a French settlement founded in 1840.
Things to Do in Akaroa
Families will find plenty to fill a day or a long weekend. Akaroa’s harbour is the centre of most activity. Dolphin cruises with local operators such as Black Cat Cruises give you the chance to spot Hector’s dolphins, New Zealand’s smallest and rarest species. Some cruises also include penguins, seals, and sea caves along the volcanic coastline.
For land-based wildlife, Pōhatu Penguins offers guided trips to the country’s largest mainland colony of little blue penguins. Travelling over back-country roads to Flea Bay is an experience in itself, and the guides explain the conservation work happening behind the scenes.
If you prefer gentler activities, the waterfront is ideal for a stroll. Shops, cafés, and the local butchery, bakery, and cheese producers offer plenty of small treats. Families often stop at the Akaroa Museum to learn about the town’s Māori history, French settlement, and Antarctic connections through stories of explorer Frank Worsley.
Walking tracks are another highlight. Children’s Bay Walk is an easy option, known for its animal sculptures and views from the top. The Garden of Tane, near the south end of town, has sheltered forest paths and a playground. For those seeking bigger landscapes, Hinewai Reserve shows how the peninsula is regenerating into native bush, with tracks ranging from short walks to more demanding climbs.
Food is part of the Akaroa experience. The Brasserie Kitchen and Bar, Ma Maison, and local cafés serve French-influenced dishes using regional ingredients. On Saturdays from October to April, the Akaroa Farmers Market brings producers together, from Barrys Bay Cheese to local fruit, vegetables, and handmade fudge.
Akaroa Accommodation
Akaroa offers a broad range of places to stay, from simple campsites to boutique lodges. Families often choose holiday homes or motels close to the water, such as Akaroa Waterfront Motels or the TOP 10 Holiday Park. Bed-and-breakfasts like Oinako provide a quieter setting, while farmstays around the peninsula offer more space and a rural backdrop. Those wanting something unique can look at places in nearby bays, where the scenery feels more remote but still close to town.
Akaroa Lighthouse
The Akaroa Lighthouse is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. Originally built in 1879 at Akaroa Heads, it was moved to its current harbour-edge site for preservation. It’s a short walk from the centre of town, and families often visit for the views rather than the interior, which opens only on limited days. The lookout area beside the lighthouse gives a clear view of the harbour and hills, a simple but worthwhile stop.
How Far from Christchurch to Akaroa
The distance from Christchurch to Akaroa is roughly 85 kilometres, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car. Travel times can vary slightly during busy holiday periods, but the route is generally smooth and scenic.
How to Get to Akaroa
From Christchurch, you follow State Highway 75 through Little River before the road curves around the peninsula. The drive is sealed and suitable for all vehicles. For those not driving, a daily bus service runs between Christchurch and Akaroa with Akaroa French Connection.
