Travel
There are multiple accommodation options in Akaroa. We encourage you to sort this out sooner rather than later. Akaroa is a popular holiday destination and accommodation could book up quickly for this time of year.
We have the following options:
1. We have limited accommodation on site. If this is something you would be interested in please email Sam (sammy.d92@hotmail.com) or James (james.savage@hotmail.co.nz).
2. The Criterion - https://holidayakaroa.com/
3. Akaroa Waterfront Motels - http://www.akaroawaterfront.co.nz/ . Note: they have a minimum 3 night stay at this time of year.
4. Akaroa Top 10 Holiday Park - http://www.akaroa-holidaypark.co.nz/
5. Air BnB - https://www.airbnb.co.nz/s/Akaroa--New-Zealand/homes?adults=1&children=0&checkin=&checkout=&refinement_paths%5B%5D=%2Fhomes&allow_override%5B%5D=&s_tag=qeqQ2eBX Note: Akaroa and other bays are often included in this search. Other bays are at least a 30 min drive from Akaroa.
6. Bookabach - Similar to Air BnB except this only allows you to book a house. https://www.bookabach.co.nz/baches-and-holiday-homes/search/locale/akaroa?&k_clickid=EAIaIQobChMIrLuv5_793gIVSo2PCh3OyQWwEAAYASAAEgLrf_D_BwE&ds_kids=p38882431101&ds_kid=43700038882431101&ksprof_id=700000001612727&ksdevice=c&ktarget=aud-421916691799:kwd-328707778060&kloct=&klocf=1011065&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrLuv5_793gIVSo2PCh3OyQWwEAAYASAAEgLrf_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
If you are wanting to stay in the village we will have transportation available for you at the end of the night.
This section is specifically for those who do not live in the Canterbury region. Christchurch International (if you can really call it that!) is the main airport that serves Canterbury, specifically Christchurch. If you are flying internationally you will want to book flights to this airport. NZ is a small country so you will find that this will be the easiest and most cost effective way to get here. Akaroa is approximately 1 1/2 hours from Christchurch. Any questions email James or Sam.
Like we've mentioned above, Akaroa is approximately 1 1/2 hours from Christchurch. The best way to get to Akaroa is to drive; 1) because it is an absolutely stunning drive but 2) there is very little public transport available. In saying that you can get a shuttle from Christchurch if need be: https://www.intercity.co.nz/travel-info/timetable/lookup/8615 . We would recommend either hiring a car or getting a lift with someone else. Chat to James or Sam if you have any questions.
Akaroa is a town on the Banks Peninsula, southeast of Christchurch. Akaroa Beach is on the eastern shore of Akaroa Harbour, where rare Hector’s dolphins swim. Akaroa has a unique history in that it was originally settled by the French but was taken over by the British on the 'sly' in 1840's (https:// .govt.nz/keyword/akaroa). Today Akaroa has a strong French influence and is our little slice of France in the middle of Oceania.
It is a lovely seaside town with lots of character to take in. We would strongly recommend taking a couple of days to enjoy what this beautiful town has to offer.
So what is there to do in Akaroa?
1. Swim with the Dolphins - Yes you can swim with dolphins! Akaroa is home to the endangered Hector's dolphins and you can pay to swim with them in the protected marine mammal sanctuary which is Akaroa Harbour. See the website for more information: https://blackcat.co.nz/swimming-with-dolphins/
2. Nature cruise - We understand that swimming with dolphins might not be everyone's cuppa tea. However, you can go on a nature cruise to see the dolphins without having to get wet! For more information see: blackcat.co.nz/akaroa-harbour-nature-cruise/
3. Kayak Safaris - You can go on kayak tours around the harbour and explore all the little inlets and coves. For more information see: https://blackcat.co.nz/swimming-with-dolphins/
4. The Akaroa Museum - If you are interested in finding more out about the town of Akaroa check out the museum: http://akaroamuseum.org.nz/
5. Akaroa has some wonderful little cafes and restaurants - if sitting in a cafe and reading a book is more your style then Akaroa has many wonderful places to hang out and grab a coffee!
6. Walks - Whether taking a stroll on a beach is more your thing or going for a day walk around the hills Akaroa bodes something for everyone! Check out some of the bigger walks here: https://www.bankspeninsulawalks.co.nz/akaroa-walks/
Whilst these are just some of the many things to do in Akaroa, there is something for everyone :)