7 Things To Do In Akaroa, Banks Peninsula

It is impossible to deny the beauty of New Zealand. There are many lovers of ecological and natural tourism who visit these lands every day with the wild charm of their landscapes. Akaroa is one of those new destinations for those looking to escape the crowds of cities.

In this article, in addition to knowing more about the Banks peninsula, we present you the many possibilities that Akaroa offers us when it comes to sightseeing. You are going to discover a fantastic place to enjoy yourself in very different ways.

Geographical and historical data of Akaroa

Located on the South Island of New Zealand, the Banks Peninsula was formed eight million years ago by several volcanic eruptions. This fact is what has created the current shape of the peninsula, as well as hundreds of unique bays that make up the characteristic landscape of the area.

The peninsula has an area of ​​about 1000 km² and its population does not exceed 8000 inhabitants. It would be during the 19th century when the captain of a French whaling ship negotiated the purchase of the village’s lands from the Maori.

However, the Banks Peninsula had already been claimed by the British government, thanks to the Treaty of Waitangi. Eventually, the town of Akaroa became a small French colony and outpost within the peninsula.

This charming city by the sea and the mountains is located just two hours from Christchurch and is a privileged vacation spot for many French people. So much so, that the names of some streets are inspired by an old neighborhood in the city of Paris and have been preserved since its foundation.

Visits and activities in Akaroa

1. Swim with dolphins

Akaroa is known for having a colony of dolphins. Hector’s dolphin, small but friendly, is the species that populates these waters. Boats and catamarans depart from the port every day for sighting sessions and swimming with them.

In addition to dolphins, whales and other cetaceans can also be seen at different times of the year. Being one of its biggest sources of tourism, all the dedicated companies in the sector provide tourists with a full wetsuit to withstand the low water temperatures.

2. Visit the Akaroa lighthouse

Built in 1880, the lighthouse has a Fernel lens made in France and a mechanism that comes from Scotland. The hexagonal lighthouse tower is over 12 meters high and six meters wide.

In 1977 the lighthouse stopped working and was moved to the port of Akaroa, next to the city’s cemetery, for conservation. Although it no longer fulfills its mission, it is very well preserved and can be visited on weekends. Sometimes it is lit for the enjoyment of tourists and residents during festivities or designated dates.

3. Play sports outdoors and enjoy the scenery

Akaroa is a booming tourist destination for all those interested in hiking, trekking and cycling. The mountain and coastal landscapes that can be observed both from the trails and from the viewpoints of the region offer a visual spectacle difficult to forget.

4. Visit Little River Train Station

Little River is on the train line from Christchurch to Akaroa. Opened in 1886, it closed in 1962, so today it is preserved for its historical value. A curious fact is that between 1927 and 1934 the station functioned as a test run for the experimental battery-powered Edison locomotive.

5. Visit St. Patrick’s Catholic Church

It was built in 1865. It was built by a small group of missionaries who were trying to evangelize the Maori people. It is in the British colonial style and can be visited without major problem from early in the morning.

6. Akaroa Public Library

It is located in a building with more than 135 years of history, but perfectly restored. In this public library you can find second-hand books and magazines with a wide variety of topics. A good place if you like to read.

7. The Akaroa market

Every Saturday, the farmers and fishermen of the city set up a small and lively market that is worth visiting. Here you can buy all kinds of typical products of the region.

As you can see, Akaroa is a city where you can enjoy unforgettable days. A quiet city that offers you a different type of tourism. You dare?