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Akaroa Visitor Information

Akaroa Visitor Information

Make the most of your time and discover all you need to know about the amenities available in Akaroa.

Wharf Location and Distance to Christchurch

Located approximately 1.5 hours' drive (86 kms) from Christchurch, Akaroa is a beautiful harbour-side town with charming colonial architecture remnant of the French and British settlers who founded the area.

Akaroa's main wharf is situated on the south side of the town centre and is within metres of shops and cafes. A 20 minute tender ride is required to get cruise ship passengers ashore.

Many bays around Banks Peninsula are accessible within 30 minutes' drive of Akaroa.

 

Transport Options

Akaroa is very compact and everything is within walking distance. There is a free shuttle on cruise ship days.

Transport to Akaroa from Christchurch is available on the Akaroa French Connection bus service leaving from outside the Canterbury Museum on Rolleston Avenue departing daily at 9am returning to Christchurch at 4pm. 

Taxi services - Danny's Taxi, ph: 03 304 7784 (pre-bookings preferred). 

Akaroa Amenities

The ATM is located at the Bank of New Zealand, 73 Rue Lavaud. Banking and foreign exchange services are also available during bank hours.

Shops hours vary, but most are open from 9am - 5.30pm.

Computers and free WiFi access are available at the Akaroa Library, 141 Rue Jolie. WiFi is also available at various restaurants and cafes throughout town.

The Post office is located inside the Akaroa iSITE Visitor Information Centre.

The local doctor can be found at the Akaroa Health Hub, Onuku Road, +64 3 304 7004. In an emergency phone 111.

Akaroa Visitor Information Centre

The Akaroa i-SITE Visitor Information Centre offers helpful advice and bookings on local activities and tours as well as postal services.

Get the most out of your Akaroa adventure by contacting them before you arrive to ensure you don't miss out on activities.

The Akaroa i-SITE Visitor Centre, has exclusive deals and a team of experts to help you find the attractions, activities and transport options to best suit you and your budget.

Roads and Driving Conditions

It's important to note that the roads in New Zealand can often be narrow and windy sometimes making your journey longer than anticipated. Ensure you adhere to the speed limits and always stay to the left side of the road.

You must carry your driver's licence with you when driving. If your licence is not in English, you're required to carry an approved translated version.

Learn more about what to expect when driving in New Zealand.

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