Winter
22 April 2026
Akaroa escape - three day itinerary
Experience the charm of Akaroa, a French-inspired jewel just 90 minutes from Christchurch. Discover boutique shops, swim with rare Hector’s dolphins, and enjoy stunning volcano-carved harbour views. Plan your perfect 3-day getaway.
Three days in Akaroa - your perfect harbour 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.
Akaroa is known as the jewel in the crown of Banks Peninsula, and there’s easily enough to do to fill three days.
So, enjoy planning your trip — or let us do it for you.
Day 1: The drive, the harbour, the first evening
Wind through the Port Hills, watch the harbour reveal itself below, and settle into village life at your own pace. Day one is about arriving well and easing in slowly.
MORNING
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, take in the stunning views from the crest of Banks Peninsula over Akaroa Harbour, which fills the caldera of an ancient volcano.
Stop and explore
Once you’re over the hill, make a detour to 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, settle into your accommodation and discover the range of activities available in and around the village.
Wander the Akaroa foreshore and township before enjoying dinner with a view before your evening activity.
EVENING
Enjoy the evening on the water
There’s plenty of harbour-side dining options but Tīni Drinkery & Eatery sits right over the water. A cocktail and kushiyaki (Japanese charcoal-grilled skewers) or a pizza taste even better with a sunset or, if you’re lucky, some frolicking Hector’s dolphins right in front of you.
Or grab some fish and chips and a seaside bench for seafood and sea views.
After dinner activity
Pōhatu 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.
Day two: The harbour, the dolphins and the Giant's house
morning
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.
Locals flock to A la baguette for takeaway artisan sourdough and croissants but don’t dilly-dally as they often sell out.
After breakfast, gear up for an exciting sea adventure in Akaroa Harbour.
afternoon
Take to the water or get in it
For those keen on observing the world's smallest and rarest dolphin species, Akaroa Dolphins is the perfect choice.
They offer two-hour cruises on a luxury catamaran, exploring the nature of Akaroa where there is a high chance of viewing the adorable Hector's dolphin, white-flippered penguins and New Zealand fur seals.
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 includes scenic cruises around Akaroa Harbour, where you can spot a variety of marine creatures, including dolphins, seals, and penguins.
If you want to get a little closer to the Hector's dolphin, Black Cat offer swimming tours, which provide an unforgettable experience of swimming alongside these magnificent animals. This tour is limited to 12 swimmers per trip for a truly personal experience.
Big fun at the Giant’s House
The Giant’s House is a never-ending artwork, as for decades, artist Josie Martin has been adding to her house and garden of surprise and delight.
There’s always another whimsical discovery around the corner as you explore the garden, but keep in mind it closes at 3pm in winter.
The Giant’s House is just a 650m walk from Akaroa’s main thoroughfare, Rue Lavaud.
evening
Akaroa’s best dining
For your last night in Akaroa, consider treating yourself to what is perhaps the best seafood restaurant in the region, The Seafood Kitchen.
The catch is always fresh at this temple to seafood that works closely with its suppliers, including local fishers.
If you’d rather be directly seaside, Ma Maison has breathtaking waterfront views overlooking Daly's Wharf and the Akaroa Harbour and a sophisticated menu broad enough to have something for everyone.
Enjoy the evening
For a breathtaking evening activity, immerse yourself in 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.
For dining, check out
Fresh seafood, waterfront views and a French-influenced culinary heritage — dining in Akaroa is a highlight in its own right.
Day three: Leave slowly, the drive home is worth it
The drive back to Christchurch deserves as much attention as the journey in.
Head back to Christchurch
For farewell stops on the way back to Christchurch, taste the delicious cheeses at Barrys Bay Cheese, which has been making traditional, handcrafted cheese since 1895.
If you’d rather stretch your legs, explore the Ōnawe Peninsula, an historic and special place that reaches into the harbour from Duvauchelle.
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!
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