Map of Akaroa, New Zealand

🌊 What to do in Akaroa

Explore the captivating beauty of Akaroa with a range of activities suited for every budget. From scenic walks to adventurous water sports, Akaroa offers something special for every traveler seeking an unforgettable experience.

• Best Budget Activity in Akaroa:

  Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise: Embark on a budget-friendly cruise to spot dolphins, penguins, and other marine life in the stunning Akaroa Harbour.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Akaroa:

  Akaroa Sea Kayaking: Paddle through the turquoise waters of Akaroa in a guided sea kayaking tour, enjoying up-close encounters with seals and seabirds.

• Best Luxury Activity in Akaroa:

  Swim with Dolphins Experience: Delight in a luxurious swim with Hector's dolphins, a unique and unforgettable wildlife encounter in the beautiful waters of Akaroa.

🍽️ Where to eat in Akaroa

Akaroa is a foodie paradise, known for its fresh seafood, French-inspired cuisine, and delightful cafes. Indulge in Akaroa's culinary scene and don't miss out on trying their famous fish and chips and delicious French pastries.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Akaroa:

  The Brasserie•$:

  New Zealand classics with a twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Akaroa:

  Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar•$$:

  Seafood and international cuisine

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Akaroa:

  Ma Maison•$$$:

  Fine French dining

• Best Budget Bar in Akaroa:

  Wunderbar•$:

  Local craft beers

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Akaroa:

  HarBar Beachfront Bar and Kitchen•$$:

  Cocktails by the sea

• Best Luxury Bar in Akaroa:

  The Trading Room•$$$:

  Premium wines and exquisite cocktails

🏞️ What to see in Akaroa

Akaroa is a picturesque town filled with charming landmarks that showcase its natural beauty and rich history. From stunning viewpoints to historic sites, Akaroa has a lot to offer for travelers looking to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere.

• Onuku Farm Hosted Walks

  Explore the stunning Onuku Farm with guided walks that take you through lush landscapes, native bush, and panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour.

• Akaroa Lighthouse

  Visit the historic Akaroa Lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the harbor and surrounding areas, and learn about its importance in maritime history.

• Giants House

  Wander through the enchanting Giants House, a unique sculpture mosaic garden that is a blend of art, creativity, and natural beauty.

• Akaroa Museum

  Discover the history and culture of Akaroa at the Akaroa Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibitions that depict the town's Maori and colonial heritage.

• Church of Saint Patrick

  Admire the beautiful architecture of the Church of Saint Patrick, a historic church with stunning stained glass windows and a peaceful ambiance perfect for reflection.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Akaroa

Discover the unique shopping opportunities in Akaroa, offering a mix of local artisan crafts, boutique stores, and specialty shops. From budget-friendly finds to luxury items, Akaroa provides a delightful shopping experience for every visitor.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Akaroa:

  Akaroa Made: Browse a selection of handmade crafts and gifts at Akaroa Made, where you can find locally-produced treasures without breaking the bank.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Akaroa:

  Little River Gallery: Explore the Little River Gallery for a variety of art pieces, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique items from New Zealand artists, offering quality products at mid-range prices.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Akaroa:

  Harbour Co.: Indulge in luxury shopping at Harbour Co., a boutique store offering high-end fashion, home decor, and accessories that reflect Akaroa's sophisticated style.

🚌 Getting Around Akaroa

• Public Transport

  When exploring Akaroa, the primary mode of public transportation is the Akaroa Shuttle. This convenient shuttle service operates daily, connecting various key locations within the town. The shuttle offers a budget-friendly way to travel around Akaroa, with tickets typically priced at around $5-$10 per person. The schedule is well-coordinated to cater to both locals and tourists, ensuring reliable and timely transport services.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The nearest main transportation hub to Akaroa is the Akaroa Bus Terminal, located centrally in town. This terminal serves as a primary point for various bus routes, providing easy access to neighboring towns and attractions. Additionally, the Christchurch International Airport, located approximately 80 kilometers away, serves as the main airport hub for those traveling to and from Akaroa.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: For those seeking the freedom to explore Akaroa and its surrounding areas at their leisure, car rental services are readily available. Popular providers include Akaroa Rent-A-Car and Hertz, offering a range of vehicle options to suit different preferences. Prices for car rentals typically start at around $50 per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: To experience Akaroa's picturesque landscapes up close, consider renting a bicycle from providers like Akaroa Adventure Centre and Akaroa Bike Hire. Bicycle rentals are an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to navigate the town and its scenic surroundings, with prices starting at $15 per day.