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Akaroa based top 5 
Friday Night

After settling into your accommodation, head to one of Akaroa’s welcoming pubs like The Grand Hotel or Madeira Hotel, or restaurants like The Common or Ma Maison for a delicious meal and a relaxed evening atmosphere. As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront, where the lights of the township shimmer across the harbour. On a clear night, look up to discover a spectacular star-filled sky, a reminder of just how peaceful and unspoilt Akaroa really is.

Saturday

Take a cruise and meet our world-famous Hector’s  Dolphins with Akaroa Dolphins or Black Cat Cruises.  If you are lucky you might also see penguins, seals, seabirds and other marine life. 

Then head to Akaroa Museum, where you can learn local multicultural history, wander through original buildings and visualise how Akaroa used to be. 

Walk up to the Akaroa Light House for a tour – climb the stairs and enjoy the panoramic view.

Sunday

Join Pohatu Penguins, view stunning scenery and meet our local penguins and learn about local conservation efforts. 

Before you head home stop and explore The Giants House, a one of a kind mosiac garden.

 

Akaroa Lighthouse

Drive and Explore 
Friday night

After the drive over you deserve to relax – Follow the bays around to French Farm Estate for a fabulous hand stretched pizza and wine. 

Saturday

Pack the camera and a picnic and head to Little Akaloa for lunch beside a peaceful harbour.  Make time to visit St Lukes Church.  A heritage listed church designed and constructed by local John Menzies in 1905.

Follow the back coastal road through to Okains Bay, Visit the beach then stop at the store for an ice cream before visiting the Okains Bay Museum – where you can learn about local history in one of the most extensive Maori and colonial collections. 

Continue on to Le Bons Bay another fabulous wide beach before heading back to Akaroa. 

The views along the way include beaches, rolling hills, valleys and 360 degree panoramic views. 

For dinner we suggest driving up to the Caldera Estate where you can enjoy sunset views across the harbour along with a fresh seasonal menu and wine.

Sunday

After a well-deserved sleep-in, swing by a la Baguette for a fresh French pastry or crusty baguette, then make your way to Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory to sample some local favourites and pick up a few treats to take home. On your way back, stop in Little River for the Farmers Market, open Sundays from 10am–2pm, and browse the stalls for fresh local produce, handmade goodies and plenty of tempting treats.

Pro Tips