Hello September!
Spring has officially arrived – and you can feel it happening all around Akaroa and the Bays!
The days are getting longer, lambs are appearing in the paddocks, gardens are waking up and there’s just a little more colour creeping back into the landscape.
September is the perfect time to start planning your next escape to the Banks Peninsula. The roads are quieter, the scenery is putting on a show, and there’s plenty happening as we head towards the warmer months. Don’t forget school holidays start on the 26th September.
Whether you’re chasing fresh air and spectacular views, exploring our walking tracks or browsing local shops and restaurants – Akaroa and the Bays are ready for you.
Ooh la la… French Fest is coming!
Get ready to sacre bleu your way to Akaroa! French Fest is back this October, bringing a delicious dose of French flair, fabulous food, music, entertainment and plenty of joie de vivre to our little village.
Expect the streets to be buzzing, the glasses to be clinking and the French spirit to be well and truly alive. Whether you’re coming for the food, the atmosphere, the music – or simply an excuse to wear stripes and pretend you’re in Paris – French Fest is the perfect excuse for a weekend escape to Akaroa.
So dust off your beret, grab your favourite people and secure your tickets now. Because darling… French Fest only comes around every 2 years!
More information
Peek behind the hedges… the Inside Out Akaroa House and Garden Tour is Back!
This November, get ready to see an entirely different side of Akaroa. The Inside Out House & Garden Tour opens the gates to some of the area’s most beautiful, intriguing and usually very private homes and gardens — places you simply wouldn’t get to see on an ordinary visit.
Wander through spectacular gardens bursting into spring life, discover character-filled homes, hidden corners and clever ideas, and enjoy a rare glimpse into the creativity, history and personality tucked away around Akaroa and the bays. It’s part garden tour, part house-peeking adventure and a very good excuse to spend a spring weekend exploring Banks Peninsula.
Tickets sell out fast. More Information
Save the Date
Little River Farmers Market – Starts 4 October
Akaroa Farmers Market – Starts 10th October
International Akaroa Music Festival – 2-10 January 2027
Le Race – 20 March 2027
Run Akaroa – 16 May 2027
Keep up to date
A La Baguette
A little taste of France in the heart of Akaroa.
Tucked away in the village, this much-loved bakery is the perfect place to grab a freshly baked treat, delicious pastry, crusty baguette or something savoury to keep you fuelled for exploring.
Now open Wednesday to Sunday
7.30am-12pm
Ma Maison
Whether it’s a long lunch with friends, a leisurely catch-up over wine, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, Ma Maison is the perfect place to linger. With its relaxed atmosphere and tempting menu, it’s all about good food, good company and taking your time.
So pull up a chair, pour the wine and let lunch stretch just a little longer – you’re on holiday, after all!
The Common
Looking for somewhere to eat, meet and linger in Akaroa?
The Common is the perfect spot to settle in. Whether you’re starting the day with a great coffee and breakfast, grabbing a delicious lunch, or catching up with friends over something tasty, this popular local spot brings together relaxed hospitality, good food and plenty of village charm.
Discover more from Akaroa & the Bays
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