Activities
1 April 2025
Akaroa visitor information
Make the most of your time and discover all you need to know about the amenities available in Akaroa.
Travel
Getting here
A journey around this beautiful peninsula will reward you with picturesque vistas at every turn. Come and immerse yourself in the alluring French character of Akaroa township - just 90 minutes from Christchurch.
travel
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
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 5.45pm.
Taxi services - Danny's Taxi, email: dannystaxiakaroa.com or via Facebook: Danny's Taxi
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 local doctor can be found at the Akaroa Health Hub, Onuku Road, +64 3 304 7004. In an emergency phone 111.
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.
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