As the days grow longer and the hills burst into summer green, Akaroa and the Bays are buzzing with energy and anticipation. November marks the start of our sunniest season – a time for outdoor adventures, seaside dining, and reconnecting with the beauty of our region. The gardens are blooming, the harbour is sparkling, and our community is gearing up for a vibrant few months ahead. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, looking for local events, or simply enjoying life by the bay, there’s plenty to celebrate and discover this month in Akaroa and the Bays.
Pawsome!
Akaroa is the perfect spot to explore with your four-legged friend. We welcome well behaved canine friends. Stroll the waterfront, wander through the village, or hit one of the many scenic walking tracks together.
Many local cafés and outdoor eateries offer dog-friendly seating, and you’ll find plenty of shady spots and fresh water along the way.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a little longer, Akaroa’s relaxed, welcoming vibe means your pup can enjoy the adventure too!
The Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel Akaroa is a favourite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike! A welcoming hub where good food, great company, and relaxed vibes come together.
Whether you’re stopping in for a hearty meal, a refreshing drink in the sunny beer garden, or an evening of live music, The Grand offers something for everyone.
Families are warmly welcomed, with plenty of space to unwind and enjoy the friendly atmosphere. With heaps of convenient parking right on site, it’s the perfect place to settle in and soak up the lively Akaroa spirit.
Keeping up to date
Want to know what’s happening around the harbour? The What’s On page at akaroa.com is your go-to guide for local events and activities.
From live music and markets to community gatherings, exhibitions, and seasonal celebrations, it’s the best way to stay in the loop with everything going on in Akaroa and the Bays.
Whether you’re a local looking for weekend plans or a visitor planning your trip, check in regularly to make sure you don’t miss a thing!
Saturdays & Sundays done right
Discover the charm of local farmers’ markets on the Peninsula! 🥕
Every Saturday morning from 9am, wander through the Akaroa Farmers Market and discover a vibrant mix of food vendors, garden supplies, and local artisan creations – all in a friendly, relaxed setting.
Start your Sunday with a stop at the Little River Market. With nearly 30 stalls each week, there’s plenty of variety – from fresh local produce to handmade crafts and tasty treats. You won’t be disappointed!
It’s the perfect way to taste, shop, and connect with the locals while soaking up the laid-back vibe of Banks Peninsula.
Don’t Forget Show Weekend
Show Weekend is just around the corner – the perfect excuse for a getaway to Akaroa and the Bays! With long sunny days, fresh spring air, and plenty to see and do, it’s one of the best times to visit. Stroll the waterfront, explore local markets, enjoy great food and live music, or simply relax and take in the views. From family-friendly adventures to quiet coastal escapes, there’s something for everyone. Accommodation and dining spots fill up fast, so be sure to book early and make the most of this well-deserved long weekend by the bay. Start planning your weekend escape today at www.akaroa.com.
Luxury for 2 in Lavericks
Perched high above the Pacific Ocean, The Retreat is an architecturally designed sanctuary for two. Every element has been thoughtfully crafted from natural materials, creating a space that feels timeless, grounding, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Sweeping views of rugged cliffs and endless sea draw your gaze outward, while warm timber interiors, a suspended gas fireplace, and a king bed invite you to slow down and soften.
Discover Little Akaloa
Tucked away on the northern side of the Peninsula, Little Akaloa is a charming, peaceful bay that captures the essence of classic Kiwi summers. With its golden sand beach, safe swimming waters, and relaxed rural feel, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip or a quiet weekend escape.
The bay’s name comes from the Māori words “aka loa”, meaning “long vine”, and the area has a rich history of both Māori settlement and early European farming. A short stroll from the beach you’ll find St Luke’s Church, a beautifully maintained timber church built in 1906, known for its striking kauri interior and historic stained glass windows.
Little Akaloa has public toilets and easy beach access, making it a great destination for families. Whether you’re picnicking by the stream, taking a dip in the calm waters, or fishing off the wharf, it’s a place that invites you to slow down and soak up the beauty of Banks Peninsula.
Great swimming, peaceful surroundings, and a touch of history – Little Akaloa is well worth the drive.
Discover more from Akaroa & the Bays
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