Akaroa town retains a quaint appeal from its blend of historic French and British architecture and peaceful harbour side location.

The Journey

Depart Christchurch, heading South East via State Highway 75. The drive will take approximately 2 hours (allowing for minimal stops).

En route stop at Lake Ellesmere and Birdlings Flat (especially at dawn or early evening) to view the abundant bird life. Further on is the inland Lake Forsyth.

Stop at the craft shop and gallery at Little River and explore the local Railway Museum.

Visit Birdlands Sanctuary, 27 acres of natural New Zealand comprising of hill, bush and stream settings, set off the main road in Okuti Valley. View and feed the native and introduced birds as they wander freely.

At the summit of the road to Akaroa lies the Hilltop Tavern, view the spectacular Akaroa Harbour (an excellent photo opportunity).

Immediately at the bottom of the hill lies the Barrys Bay Cheese Factory – famous for an extensive range of cheeses made on the premises using traditional methods. Sample the local tastes. No tour available.

Travel a few kilometres down the Wainui Road and discover the French Farm Winery – a truly beautiful establishment set amongst rural Banks Peninsula. Enjoy local wines and some lunch in a delightful setting (open seven days).

In summer a visit to the Takamatua Lavender Farm is a must. Spend time amongst the fragrant lavender bushes humming with bees.

The Activities

• Absorb the laid back ambience of the local art galleries, craft-shops and try delectable fare at one of many cafés and restaurants.
• Numerous walks are available; visit the Akaroa Visitor Centre for maps.
• Don’t miss the nature cruise on the Canterbury Cat launch out on the Akaroa Harbour to view the incredible geographical formations, salmon farm, local points of interest and the famous and endangered Hectors Dolphins – trip about two hours.
• Dolphin Experience Akaroa. See the grace and beauty of the Hector dolphins in their natural environment close up whilst swimming with them. No swimming experience required.
• The Okains Bay Museum (Maori and Colonial history), a half hour drive northeast of Akaroa. Okains Bay also offers a great swimming beach. Directions from the Akaroa Information Centre.
• Akaroa Country Garden Tour (half day including morning or afternoon tea).
• A visit to Linton the home, garden and gallery of artist Josie Martin will delight and amaze you.
• Returning to Christchurch, turn right at the Black Tulip tearooms and drive over Gebbies Pass into Lyttelton Harbour.
• Drive around Lyttelton Harbour and view the city and harbour from the top Summit Road.
• Follow the road around the Harbour and explore the of Port Lyttelton itself – a number of beautiful gardens can be found in the Lyttelton Harbour Bays and are open to visitors.

Operation/Time to allow/Distance from Christchurch

• Birdlands Sanctuary/1-2 hours/45 minutes
• Barrys Bay Cheese Factory/30 minutes/55 minutes
• French Farm Winery/30 minutes/2 hours -1 hour
• Takamatua Lavender Farm/30 minutes/ 2 hours -1 hour & 20 minutes
• Akaroa Harbour Cruise – Canterbury Cat/2 hours/1½ hours
• Dolphin Experience Akaroa/3 hours/1½ hours
• Akaroa Country Garden Tour/1 – 3 hours/1½ hours
• Okains Bays Museum/1 – 2 hours/1 hour & 30 minutes
• Akaroa Museum 30 minutes/1½ hours/1½ hours
• Walks/30 minute/4 days 1½ hours