DAY TOUR: Christchurch to Akaroa

A day trip to Akaroa is a very special day tour that we enjoy with our guests and we know you will enjoy this day 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 the top take in the beautiful Lyttelton Harbour as well as, on a clear day, the snow covered mountains. 

Going down into Lyttelton 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, where you are actually standing on the crater rim of the long extinct Akaroa volcano, and from here there are absolutely panoramic views of Akaroa harbour and Akaroa.

Akaroa itself is an old whaling township founded by the French in 1840 and even today it still has a distinctly French flavour. You will have an enjoyable time exploring this lovely town and enjoying lunch in one of the many seaside cafes.  If you prefer, at your request a picnic lunch can be arranged.

In summer the world's smallest and rarest Hector's dolphins come right into the harbour and so your afternoon would be well spent taking the two hour Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise to see these. On this cruise you may also see New Zealand fur seals, white flippered penguins, and numerous other sea birds. If soundless more interactive fun on the water attracts you more, then spend an exhilarating two and a half hours sailing in the harbour on a wonderful 14 metre ‘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            5.30-6.00pm

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.