DAY TOUR: Christchurch to Akaroa

A trip to Akaroa is a very special day tour that we also enjoy with our guests.  We know you will enjoy this day tour too.

Heading out from Christchurch city we climb the Port Hills to the Sign of the Takahe where you can look out across the Canterbury Plains to the mighty Southern Alps.  Stupendous views from here take in the beautiful Lyttelton Harbour as well as, on a clear day, the snow covered mountains. 

Going down into the harbour (a sea-filled extinct volcanic crater) we travel through Governors Bay at the end of the harbour, across Gebbies Pass to meet the main road at Lake Ellesmere which, for the birdwatchers amongst you, is home to many different species of coastal birds. Then the historic and arty Little River township makes a most pleasurable stop.  Our next stop, after a breathtaking climb, is at Hilltop, a good place to have morning tea/coffee. Here you stand on the rim of the Akaroa crater where you will find it hard to believe what you see.  There are absolutely panoramic views across the harbour to Akaroa.

Akaroa itself is an old whaling township founded by the French in 1840. Today it still has a distinctly French flavour. You will have an enjoyable time exploring this lovely town and finding lunch to suit yourself from one of the many seaside cafes. On your request a picnic lunch can be arranged or a booking made at one of our favoured seaside cafes.

In summer the world's smallest and rarest Hector's dolphins come right into the harbour and so your afternoon is well spent taking either a Black Cat cruise of the harbour or, if soundless more interactive fun on the water attracts you, then have fun sailing around the harbour on a wonderful ‘A-class’ Keeler.

Not for you?  Then simply elect to explore and relax in this colourful seaside town for the afternoon.  Wonderful.

Collected from your accommodation       8.30-9.00am

Returned to your accommodation            5.45-6.00pm

Swimming with the Dolphins option:

• you can't get much closer than this!
• This is a late morning activity and leaves you the afternoon to explore.