Akaroa, the oldest town in the Canterbury region and a center for marine wildlife, has so much to offer that choosing what to do might be difficult. On this list of the greatest things to do in Akaroa, we’ve selected some of our favorites, including activities suitable for tourists on a budget, families, and more.
1. Discover the Only French Settlement in New Zealand
Explore the one and only French settlement in New Zealand by strolling through the town! From the shops to the cuisine to the architecture, the little community is dripping with French culture. Have a look at the French street signs, get a baguette or some pâté from La Boucherie & Deli, and take a picture with the statue of the French artist Charles Meryon.
The brief period that the French colonists lived here resulted in the creation of a distinct representation of France on the other side of the globe. Don’t forget to attend the Akaroa French Festival, which typically takes place in October.
2. Pohatu Penguins invites you to meet the Little Blue Penguins
See the biggest colony of blue penguins in New Zealand to get up and personal with the tiniest species of penguins on the planet. Join Pohatu Penguins on a penguin safari, where they will take you to a private conservation area in a beautiful and secluded bay where you may spot penguins and perhaps even witness a chick feeding. You will also learn about safeguarding New Zealand’s bird population.
When you visit the family’s homestead on one of their nighttime tours, sheep will greet you with enthusiasm before providing you with camouflage gear and binoculars to improve your viewing. Before moving on to other hides with views of nesting locations, you may get to observe a penguin chick being fed as part of its rehabilitation. For the finest viewings, try to visit between September and mid-February.
3. Set out for Akaroa Harbor
Set out aboard the Fox II for a relaxing, stress-free, and environmentally responsible trip in the crater of an old volcano (yep, that’s the Akaroa Harbour; additional information is available on Viator and Tripadvisor). It is nearly a guarantee that you will see Hector’s dolphins riding the pressure waves created by the boat, and you may also see small blue penguins, seals, and other sea life.
As you sail to enormous sea caves and other impressive cliff formations, take in the charm of this vintage sailboat and a complimentary cup of tea or coffee. Keep in mind that the only time you can go sailing is from late December to early March.
4. Te Ara Ptaka/Summit Walkway hike
The challenging but worthwhile ridgeline walk is beautiful. On the Te Ara Ptaka/Summit Walkway, feast your eyes on the vistas of the entire peninsula, the ocean, and as far as the Southern Alps. Several huts are located along the 2-3 day trip and must be reserved in advance. Be mindful of the seasonal restrictions, as the route is always closed for lambing from 8 August to 15 October.
5. With a kayak, explore the coast and come across wildlife
Paddling a kayak is another option to get out on the water to explore the bays and, let’s hope, spot some wildlife. The option of using Akaroa Guided Kayaks is enjoyable (see Viator and Tripadvisor for more info). Their “Sunrise Safari” gets you on the water at the calmest time of the day in addition to giving you the best opportunity to observe the volcanic cliffs and azure waters.
You paddle through a marine reserve for the duration of the three-hour excursion, increasing your chances of seeing animals. Sea kayaking tours are also offered by Pohatu Penguins in their penguin marine reserve, and the Akaroa Adventure Centre rents out freedom kayaks so you may independently explore Akaroa Harbour.
6. Try “Pedalboarding” or night paddling
With NightSUP, explore some cutting-edge methods to get on the water! The night paddleboarding trip, which is their distinctive activity, allows you to explore the Akaroa Harbour while bright lights shine on the bottom of your board, displaying a variety of species beneath. Also, you get to see the beautiful seashore at dusk.
Moreover, NightSUP offers daytime SUP (stand-up paddleboard) rental along with the more unique Hobie Eclipse boards, popularly known as “pedalboards” — that is, paddleboards with pedals!
7. Hike the Hinewai Reserve’s Hills, Bush, and Beaches
Hikers can find a lot to enjoy at the Hinewai Reserve, which has trails spanning more than 12km (7 miles). The Stony Bay Peak, which rises above the peninsula at the height of 806 meters (2,644 feet), is the major draw of the volcanic reserve. The summit also referred to as Taraterehu, provides 360-degree views of the peninsula and a wonderful vista of the small French settlement below.
8. Appreciate the Views While Hiking Misty Peaks
The picturesque Newton’s Waterfall is concealed by the Misty Peaks Conservancy, which spans more than 500 hectares (1,236 acres). A terrific way to spend a day away from the crowds is to take the short, comfortable 30-minute stroll from the town’s center.
9. At Shamarra Alpacas, pet fluffy alpacas
One of Akaroa’s more unexpected must-dos is a tour of Shamarra Alpacas, where visitors can get up and personal with their herd of adorable, fluffy alpacas. Before visiting an alpaca in the barn for a safety lesson and the opportunity to feel the silky softness of their wool, their farm tour provides a quick introduction to alpacas and their peculiar habits. Then, it’s time to head outside to the paddocks, where you may greet, feed, and pet the herd, as well as enjoy viewing adorable baby alpacas!
10. Discover The Giant’s House’s Fantasy Gardens
Visit The Giant’s Mansion to round out your trip with some artistic flair. Around the large ancient homestead, explore the flamboyant garden’s mosaic sculptures, water features, and walks. You might easily spend a couple of hours exploring it, learning about its hidden gems like an art gallery, and unwinding at the on-site cafe with its outdoor dining area among the trees.
