2 minute read
Akaroa Must-Do's
French Style
As New Zealand’s only French settlement, arriving here is like descending on a French provincial village, padded out with Kiwi flare. The roads have French names and local restaurants are of French persuasion. Try the Little Bistro and patisserie-inspired ‘Sweet-As’ bakery.
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Cruise the Harbour
Perennially inviting, Akaroa Harbour beckons every visitor onto the water. Jump on a two-hour nature cruise by catamaran, charter a yacht, pick up a paddle and kayak, or sail aboard New Zealand’s oldest gaffed rigged ketch.
The Giants House
A stunning collection of bright, mosaic sculptures, popping with colour. Creator Josie Martin has transformed the house with dynamic mosaics that pave every nook and cranny. It’s also a Garden of International Significance and nothing shy of spellbinding.
Swim with Dolphins
Hector's dolphin © Chalita Aommy Klumjui
Get in the water with the world’s smallest dolphin, the Hector’s dolphin. Suit up and join them in their natural habitat; all tours take the least obtrusive approach to seeing them.
October Akaroa Festival
This annual three-day festival goes all out with a market, parade and plenty of music, entwined with Whānau Day to celebrate Māori history.
Wildlife Kayaking
As a large, protected marine sanctuary, dolphins, seals and penguins are plentiful in Akaroa. Hire a freedom kayak from Akaroa Adventure Centre and set off to find them.
Glow in the Dark Stand-up Paddleboarding
Kitted out with LED boards, depart at dusk and paddle before a dazzling sunset. As night descends, the marine life lights up beneath you.
Giant Stand-up Paddleboarding
If you’re with a group or the family, why not try a giant-sized stand-up paddleboarding? Accommodating between four and eight people, it’s very stable – as long as you are, too!
Akaroa Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday during October to April from 9.30am to 1pm. With locally produced olive oil, nuts, pastries and lavender items, even the French would say ‘ooh la la’.
Wine Experiences
Learn all about the organic wine making process high in the Akaroa hills at Akaroa Winery at Takamatua Valley Organic Vineyards; sit and sip on the deck at Meniscus Winery or book a Banks Peninsula Wine Tour.
Barrys Bay Traditional Cheese
Step inside to see traditional cheese making and browse an interesting display of locally made artisan cheese. On the road between Akaroa and Christchurch.
Daly’s Wharf, Akaroa © Adobe Stock
