Welcome to our February newsletter! From the charming streets of Akaroa to the wide-open beauty of the bays, we’re excited to share stories, events, and little moments that make our community special. Yes, it’s been a little unpredictable lately with glorious sunshine one minute, a dramatic midday storm the next. That’s coastal living for you and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way. Everyone’s still out exploring, spotting local wildlife, soaking up the scenery and breathing in that fresh sea air.
Waitangi Day at Ōkains Bay Museum
Ōkains Bay has long been a place of gathering, storytelling, and connection, making it a fitting setting for this national day of remembrance and reflection. (see below, a photo of the first event held 50 years ago).
Local commemorations bring together mana whenua, residents, and visitors to acknowledge the history and significance of Te Tiriti, to share kōrero, and to celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the area.
Come along and learn about local history, traditional crafts and cooking, join workshops, listen to music and much more. Bring the family, and a picnic and enjoy the nearby beach after!
Sea Week Variety Show
Always a fun community event.
28th February Akaroa Gaiety Hall from 3pm.
Local performances from music to dance and a parade of Sea Week inspired costumes. Calling all pirates, sea creatures, mermaids, sailors and divers to join the party. Small prizes for best costumes. Free entry.
St Valentines Day Market
Back by popular demand, the French Festival is hosting another magical Night Market fundraiser and you’re invited to fall in love with Akaroa after dark. Expect live music, delicious food stalls, tempting treats, raffles, and that warm, buzzy night-market atmosphere we all adore.
Bring your friends, your whānau, your Valentine (or your favourite snack-loving companion) and soak up the summer evening vibes.
14 February 4pm-9pm at The Grand.
Essentially Sorted!
Rolled into town and realised you forgot a few things? No stress, Akaroa’s got your back!
NPD Akaroa Motor Garage – fuel up, grab fishing gear and stock up on snacks.
Akaroa Butchery & Deli – top-notch meat and easy food options for holiday feasts.
Akaroa Four Square – all your everyday grocery essentials in one stop.
Akaroa Laundry – because holidays are for relaxing, not washing.
A la baguette – irresistible French-inspired bread, best enjoyed still warm.
From practical to delicious, everything you need is right here.
Accommodation
From boutique heritage stays in the heart of Akaroa village to peaceful retreats tucked into the bays, there’s an accommodation style to match every kind of escape.
Wake to harbour views in a charming waterfront hotel, unwind in a secluded coastal bach, or settle into a luxury lodge surrounded by native bush and birdsong. Families, couples, solo travellers, and adventure seekers will all find a base that feels like home, with many options offering decks, fireplaces, and easy access to beaches, walks, and cafés.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family holiday, or a quiet nature-filled getaway, Akaroa & the Bays offers stays that turn a visit into a true retreat.
Plan your Akaroa and the Bays adventure
Wonderful Wainui
Wainui is a peaceful settlement on Banks Peninsula, shaped by its close relationship with the water and surrounding land.
Its name, meaning “big water,” reflects the sheltered harbour that supported early Māori settlement, providing food, transport, and connection around Akaroa Harbour. Later European farming and fishing built on this foundation, creating a small, resilient community closely tied to the rhythms of the harbour.
Today, Wainui blends its working past with a relaxed coastal lifestyle and is a favourite spot for those drawn to the water. The sheltered harbour makes it ideal for all water activities, from boating and kayaking to swimming and paddleboarding, while the area is also known for excellent fishing.
With open spaces and harbour views, Wainui offers perfect scenic picnic spots alongside the beach. It has a well-used boat ramp and a long-running camp managed by the Kind Foundation (previously YMCA). It’s also the base of world-famous Akaroa Salmon New Zealand , where depending on the weather, you can purchase fresh salmon straight off the boat on Sunday’s between 3:30 and 4:15pm.
In summer, the population swells, yet the area retains its calm, natural beauty and strong sense of community.
Discover more from Akaroa & the Bays
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