Just 90 minutes from Christchurch, Akaroa New Zealand is a coastal town on the Banks Peninsula, known for its French heritage, breathtaking scenery, and wildlife encounters. The drive alone is worth the trip, with winding roads leading to stunning harbor views.
I visited twice while living on the Banks Peninsula, and while the town itself is small, the surrounding landscapes and activities make it a must-visit. Whether you’re kayaking with penguins, spotting Hector’s dolphins, or exploring scenic trails, Akaroa is one of the best day trips or weekend getaways from Christchurch. Whether for a day trip or a longer stay, this guide covers the best things to do, where to stay, travel tips, and everything you need to know before visiting Akaroa, New Zealand.
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Why Visit Akaroa, New Zealand?
Akaroa is New Zealand’s only French settlement, giving it a unique cultural charm. The town’s French street names, colonial architecture, and European-inspired cuisine reflect its history, dating back to the early 1800s when French settlers attempted to colonize the area.
Beyond its history, Akaroa is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventures. The town is surrounded by rugged cliffs, rolling farmland, and blue bays, making it a paradise for hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers. Akaroa is also one of the best places in New Zealand to see Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins. You can also spot the world’s smallest penguin here on a kayaking adventure.
Located just a short drive from Christchurch, Akaroa is a perfect weekend getaway or day trip for those exploring the South Island.
Best Things to Do in Akaroa, New Zealand
Sea Kayaking with Pohatu Penguins
For a more immersive wildlife experience, join a sea kayaking tour with Pohatu Penguins. Paddle along remote coastlines, explore sea caves, and spot penguins, dolphins, and fur seals up close. This small-group eco-tour is a great way to experience Akaroa’s marine life and volcanic rock formations.
This was one of my favorite memories from my entire 2 months in New Zealand. My partner and I had a private tour and saw so many penguins, seals and we even got to see Hector’s dolphins. If you do one thing in Akaroa, I highly recommend this. You can book a tour with Pohatu Penguins here or with the link below.
You also have the option of staying overnight on the property in one of their cottages. If you do this option, you’ll be able to watch the penguins come in from the sea in the evening and they roost underneath the cottages. Our guide told us that it’s a really cool experience, but just know apparently the penguins are quite loud.
Go on an Akaroa Dolphin Cruise
Akaroa is one of the best places in New Zealand to see Hector’s dolphins, and a dolphin-watching cruise is a must-do. Several eco-friendly tours operate in the harbor, offering a chance to see dolphins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Some cruises even allow you to swim with the dolphins. You can book your own Akaroa Dolphin Cruise here.
Explore Akaroa’s Wineries
Akaroa may not be a major wine destination, but it has a small collection of boutique wineries that offer stunning views and excellent local wines:
- Takamatua Valley Vineyards – A family-run vineyard producing excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
- French Peak Vineyard – Specializing in organic wines, this vineyard offers tastings with a view of Akaroa Harbor.
- French Farm Estate – A picturesque winery and restaurant set in a tranquil rural location, perfect for a long lunch with a glass of local wine.
Many of these wineries offer wine tastings, tours, and on-site dining, making them a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon in Akaroa.
Hike Akaroa New Zealand’s Best Trails
For those who love hiking, Akaroa has several incredible trails:
- Banks Track – A multi-day coastal hike through stunning scenery.
- Hinewai Reserve – A private conservation area with lush forest trails.
- Onawe Peninsula Walk – A short, scenic hike to a historic Māori pā site.
More Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems in Akaroa, New Zealand
If you have extra time, check out these unique attractions in Akaroa:
- Shamarra Alpacas – A scenic alpaca farm offering interactive farm tours and incredible views.
- Onawe Peak – A short but rewarding hike to a historical Māori site with 360-degree views.
- Barrys Bay Traditional Cheese – A local cheese factory offering tastings and artisan cheeses made on-site.
- Akaroa Lighthouse – A historic lighthouse with beautiful coastal views, located near the wharf.
- The Giant’s House – A colorful art garden and mosaic-covered house, a must-visit for art lovers.
Where to Stay in Akaroa: Best Accommodation Options
Akaroa offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury waterfront stays to cozy cottages, vineyard escapes, and campervan sites. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended stay, here’s how to choose the best place to stay in Akaroa based on your travel style:
- Want to wake up to harbor views? Stay in Akaroa’s town center, where you’ll find hotels and waterfront apartments just steps from restaurants, cafés, and the wharf.
- Prefer a quiet countryside retreat? Opt for a vineyard stay, farmstay, or boutique B&B just outside Akaroa, where you can enjoy peaceful rural landscapes and starry night skies.
- Traveling in a campervan? There are holiday parks and campgrounds offering affordable facilities for self-contained travelers.
- Looking for something unique? Akaroa has luxury glamping sites, cozy tiny homes, and even eco-friendly pods with private hot tubs.
Best Hotels & Apartments in Akaroa
For those who want modern comforts and a central location, these hotels and apartments offer great views and easy access to the waterfront:
- Bruce Waterfront Apartments – Spacious harborfront apartments with balconies overlooking the bay.
- Akaroa Village Inn – A charming mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms close to restaurants and shops.
- Tresori Motor Lodge – A budget-friendly motel-style option with clean, spacious rooms near the town center.
Unique Stays in Akaroa New Zealand: Vineyards, Glamping & Farmstays
For a more memorable experience, consider staying in a vineyard retreat, luxury pod, or cozy farmstay just outside town:
- Canopy Camping Escapes – French Peak Wagon – A rustic yet stylish glamping experience in a restored shepherd’s wagon, surrounded by rolling vineyards.
- French Peak Vineyard & Accommodation – A secluded vineyard escape with a private guesthouse, stunning views, and wine tastings on-site.
- Te Wepu Pods Akaroa – Luxury eco-pods on a secluded farm property, each with a private hot tub and panoramic views of Akaroa Harbor.
- Beaufort House Akaroa – A historic B&B with lush gardens, antique furnishings, and an elegant atmosphere.
Campervan Sites & Holiday Parks in Akaroa
If you’re traveling by campervan or looking for budget-friendly camping options, these sites offer great facilities in scenic locations:
- Akaroa Top 10 Holiday Park – A well-equipped holiday park with campervan sites, cabins, and great views over Akaroa Harbor.
- Duvauchelle Holiday Park – A quieter campground option, located just 10 minutes outside Akaroa, with beach access and mountain views.
Whether you’re looking for harbor views, vineyard stays, or off-the-grid glamping, Akaroa has a range of unique accommodations to suit every traveler.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Akaroa
- Rent a Car – The drive from Christchurch is incredibly scenic, and having a car allows you to explore at your own pace.
- Best Time to Visit – Spring and summer (October–March) offer warm weather and the best conditions for wildlife tours. Autumn has fewer crowds, and winter is peaceful but can be chilly.
- How Long to Stay – A day trip is enough to see the highlights, but staying 1-2 nights allows more time to explore.
- Get Connected with Airalo eSIMs – Airalo offers affordable, reliable, and easy-to-set-up eSIMs, making it a convenient way to access data while traveling in New Zealand.
- Parking in Akaroa – Free parking is available, but it fills up quickly in summer. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Akaroa Day Trip from Christchurch: Itinerary & Tips
The 90-minute drive to Akaroa is one of the most scenic routes on the South Island, passing through rolling hills and panoramic lookout points.
How to Get to Akaroa from Christchurch
- Rent a Car – The best option, allowing you to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.
- Join a Group Tour – Several companies offer guided day trips, often including dolphin cruises or wine tastings.
Stop at Orton Bradley Park & Charteris Bay
If you have extra time, stop at Orton Bradley Park for hiking, waterfalls, and native bush walks. Charteris Bay is another great place to relax and take in the scenery before heading back to Christchurch. Charteris Bay is where I called home for a month while I explored this region of New Zealand and it’s a beautiful place to visit.
Final Thoughts: Is Akaroa, New Zealand Worth Visiting?
Yes! While the town itself is small, the coastal landscapes, wildlife, and scenic drive make it a must-visit. Whether you go for a day trip or stay overnight, Akaroa is one of the best places in New Zealand to see dolphins, hike volcanic landscapes, and experience a unique blend of French and Kiwi culture.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Akaroa, New Zealand
Akaroa is about 90 minutes from Christchurch by car, covering 80 kilometers (50 miles). The drive is scenic, passing through rolling hills and coastal viewpoints, making the journey part of the experience.
Yes! A day trip from Christchurch is enough time to explore the highlights, such as a dolphin cruise, sea kayaking, or a scenic hike, followed by lunch at a waterfront café. If you want to explore at a slower pace or visit wineries, staying overnight is a great option.
Definitely. While the town itself is small, Akaroa is worth visiting for its stunning coastal scenery, rare wildlife, and outdoor activities. The drive is breathtaking, and the chance to see Hector’s dolphins and explore the Banks Peninsula makes it a must-visit destination.
Akaroa is known for its French heritage, marine wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. It’s one of the best places to see Hector’s dolphins, and the French influence is visible in its street names, architecture, and local cuisine.
The best time to visit is summer (December–March) for warm weather and wildlife tours. Spring and autumn are great for fewer crowds and mild temperatures, while winter offers peaceful hiking and scenic views, though it’s cooler.
The easiest way is to drive, as it allows you to stop at scenic lookouts along the way. Alternatively, guided day toursfrom Christchurch are available for those without a car.
