Akaroa escape

A picturesque 90 minutes' drive from Christchurch lies Akaroa, a charming French influenced port cradled in the arms of an ancient volcano. Take in sweeping harbour views and see the outer bays from a hilltop vantage point. In the village itself, spend a leisurely day exploring boutique shops, galleries and gourmet eateries, or swim with the rare Hector's dolphin.

Within a short drive

A picturesque 90 minutes' drive from Christchurch lies Akaroa, a charming French influenced port cradled in the arms of an ancient volcano. Take in sweeping harbour views and see the outer bays from a hilltop vantage point. In the village itself, spend a leisurely day exploring boutique shops, galleries and gourmet eateries, or swim with the rare Hector's dolphin.

Day 1

Christchurch to Akaroa

Begin the day

Start out from Christchurch early to enjoy the drive with the morning sun on your back and reach Akaroa with the afternoon ahead of you.

On your journey, stop for one of Canterbury's best photo opportunities at the Hilltop Lookout Point, where you can take in Banks Peninsula and the five bays (what's left of an ancient volcano).

Stop and explore

Stop in at Wainui to experience Shamarra Alpacas. Their farm offers a range of guided tours, where you can get up close and personal with these friendly and curious animals. Learn about the alpaca farming industry in New Zealand or opt for a walking tour where you can take a leisurely stroll with these adorable creatures.

Arrive in Akaroa, settle into your accommodation and discover the vast range of activities available in and around the village.

Traverse the Akaroa foreshore and township before having a picnic dinner in the sun on the waterfront before your evening activity.

Enjoy the evening

Pohatu Penguins is the go-to tour company for penguin enthusiasts, as they offer tours to Pohatu Marine Reserve, the largest Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. Learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these charming creatures and their natural habitat, all while witnessing their playful antics in their home environment.

For a breathtaking evening activity, immerse into the darkness of the Southern Skies with Akaroa Stargazing. The local company will guide you on an incredible stargazing tour, where you may even witness the breathtaking Aurora Australis – the Southern Lights – dancing across the horizon.

Day 2

Akaroa To Christchurch

Begin the day

Wake-up to a picture-perfect day in Akaroa and stroll along the water's edge to one of the many cafes on offer.

After breakfast, gear up for an exciting sea adventure in Akaroa Harbour.

Akaroa Dolphins

For those keen on observing the world's smallest and rarest dolphin species, Akaroa Dolphins is the perfect choice. They offer a variety of tours, including nature cruises, where you can catch a glimpse of the adorable Hector's dolphin, as well as dolphin swimming tours, which provide an unforgettable experience of swimming alongside these magnificent animals.

Black Cat Cruises

Or, if you're looking to witness the incredible marine life in the area, Black Cat Cruises has you covered. Their range of sightseeing and wildlife experiences include scenic cruises around Akaroa Harbour, where you can spot a variety of marine creatures including dolphins, seals, and penguins. Alternatively, you can choose their swimming with dolphins' tour.

Head back to Christchurch

If you've managed to pack all of this into your Akaroa getaway, you're sure to be leaving satisfied and at one with nature!