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| Canterbury, South Island, New Zealand |
Located just 75 kilometres south-east of Christchurch on the Banks Peninsula stands the small village of Akaroa, that is home to approximately 550 residents some of which trace their heritage back to the days of early French settlement. This superb location on the banks of the beautiful Akaroa Harbour and overlooking French Bay makes Akaroa a popular beachside resort village, which, during the summer season becomes packed by visitors, with numbers sometimes reaching up to 7,000!!
Known as being the only town in New Zealand founded by French settlers, Akaroa offers many things of interest for the casual visitor. These include its quiet harbour waters where visitors can swim with hector’s dolphins, plus its art galleries, craft shops, early colonial architecture and glorious walking trails through glorious countryside. With a relaxed and casual atmosphere, the village also provides a blend of interesting cuisine offered by a range of fashionable bistros, cafes and restaurants. Located an easy day trip from Christchurch, this small and delightful village is a must see for visitors to the South Island.
Standing at the end of State highway 75, Akaroa is one of the South Island’s oldest colonial towns and was, in 1840, known for a short time as Port Louis-Philippe. There is little remaining of this French connection save a few street names and a certain architectural influence displayed by several colonial buildings, but these have all become part of New Zealand’s interesting historical story. Today Akaroa is fortunate to have one of the largest and best preserved collections of 19th century buildings of any New Zealand town, many of which are recognised by being registered as part of an historic area by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. To see these historic buildings take a stroll on the ‘Historic Village Walk’ where you will find old colonial cottages, churches and a lighthouse, or visit the Akaroa Museum to see some of the remarkable history of this charming village. If you are walking take some time out to climb the 800 metres to the top of Stony Bay Peak which lies behind the village and offers great views stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps.
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Swimming with Dolphins
Dolphin Watching
Akaroa |  Black Cat Group will take you on an unforgettable experience on Akaroa Harbour where you will get the opportunity to swim with the rare and friendly Hector's dolphins. The cruise takes about 3 hours, which includes 1/2 hour before for a full briefing, about 2 hours on the water (of which up to 1 ho... |
Akaroa Swim with Dolphins Tour from Christchurch
Dolphin Watching
Akaroa |  Enjoy this full day trip from Christchurch and visit the beautiful unspoiled old French whaling depot of Akaroa. Travel by road to Akaroa via Sign of the Takahe and Sign of the Kiwi, Governors Bay, Gebbies Pass, Lake Ellesmere, Lake Forsyth, Little River and the Hill Top. A stop will also be made at... |
Akaroa Dolphin Cruise
Cruise
Akaroa |  Their beautifully appointed vessel, Akaroa Dolphin, offers a small number of guests an intimate cruise experience. The vessel is fast, stable and manoeuvrable allowing you to visit the spectacular sea caves, volcanic formations, high cliffs and bird nesting sites both within Akaroa Harbour and beyon... |
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Kiwi Discovery
10 nights |  Discover the majesty and beauty of New Zealand's coast with this new 10 night cruise. This fabulous experience commences with a breathtaking visit to New Zealand's famous Fiordland National Park. Explore historic Dunedin on day 5 of your cruise. On day 6 you'll stop at Lyttelton, from where you can ... |
White Cloud Wonders
13 nights | Cruising from Sydney, discover why New Zealand is internationally renowned as one of the most untouched beauties on earth. Visit eight of the country’s most noteworthy locations starting with a scenic cruise of Fiordland National Park at the bottom of the South Island and making your way up to the B... |
White Cloud Wonder
14 nights |  Cruising from Brisbane, discover why New Zealand is internationally renowned as one of the most untouched beauties on earth. Visit eight of the country’s most noteworthy locations starting with a scenic cruise of Fiordland National Park at the bottom of the South Island and making your way up to the... |
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