TRIP 2 CANTERBURY
Natural gems and special sites dot this route and villages cater well to travellers offering plenty of good reasons to stop.
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TRIP 2 ust a short drive from Christchurch, along SH 5, a slice of French-inspired paradise awaits. Say ‘Bonjour’ to Akaroa.
Located in Banks Peninsula, Akaroa means Long Harbour in Māori, and is nestled against a stunning harbour backdrop where wildlife gathers and plays. Its serene nature certainly belies its explosive beginning. Banks Peninsula was formed following violent eruptions of two volcanoes, which formed the twin sisters of Akaroa and Lyttelton harbours. French settlers officially founded the town in 1840. Fast-forward to today, and Akaroa has a calm and peaceful demeanour. You’ll enjoy a sedate drive along a country road to get there. Discover natural gems along the way like sparkling Lake Ellesmere, a significant New Zealand wetland, and culturally-treasured Lake Forsyth, a coastal lake near Little River. Akin to the relaxing ambience of Akaroa, the journey there deserves a mellow pace, so be sure to take full advantage of the myriad sights and flavours along the way. ABOVE: Banks Peninsula © Aommy Photography RIGHT: Akaroa Town Crier © Raquel Smith
108 | M U S T D O ’ S • CA N T E RB URY
a journey to
Akaroa
Christchurch to Akaroa via SH 75 1hr 20min, 81.2km
