September 8th, 2024
Nestled 84 km south-east of Christchurch and roughly 25 km east of Little River, Akaroa is a picturesque township on the eastern side of the breathtaking harbour that shares its name. With a population of 624 as of 2013, this quaint town boasts a rich history and over 60% of its dwellings serve as holiday homes.
A French connection
Founded in August 1840 by French settlers, Akaroa is Canterbury's oldest town. French interest in New Zealand is believed to have hastened Britain's decision to annex the country. By the time the French settlers arrived, the Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Māori chiefs had already been signed.
Akaroa's French heritage is evident in its 19th-century cottages, houses and street names. Once a fishing and farm service town, it now primarily serves holidaymakers and tourists.
Volcanic origins and cultural influences
Born from volcanic fire and soothed by the gentle caress of the Pacific Ocean, Akaroa is a unique destination imbued with Māori, French, and European influences. This historic French and British settlement lies in the heart of an ancient volcano. (see the detailed story on Akaroa volcano at the end)
Explore the village's colonial architecture, galleries, craft stores, and cafés. Unwind or participate in the numerous activities on offer, all while soaking in the classic New Zealand beauty and historical significance of Akaroa.
Discovering outer bays and magic
Take the time to explore the dramatic outer bays and immerse yourself in the magic of this area. With a wide range of accommodation options available, you will need more than a day to discover this little piece of paradise.
L'aventure: adventures for everyone
Whether you're a browser, a unique find seeker, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, Akaroa has something for everyone.
Boutiques and art galleries
Akaroa's boutiques and art and craft galleries will delight and satisfy your curiosity. The town is home to many artists and craftspeople from various disciplines, ensuring a shopping adventure for all tastes.
Nature and wildlife
Nature lovers will be in heaven with the abundance of wildlife in Akaroa. Hector's dolphins, little blue penguins, fur seals, and alpacas all await your visit. You might even catch a glimpse of the occasional orca or whale. As you explore the wildlife, marvel at the majestic landscape and appreciate Mother Nature's exquisite handiwork.
High-energy activities
For those who crave more energetic adventures, Akaroa has plenty to offer. Wildlife kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, hiking, swimming, golfing, and more are available to satisfy your energy levels, all set against the stunning backdrop of Akaroa.
Culinary delights
The food in Akaroa is nothing short of fantastique! A true culinary experience awaits food adventurers, as the town is home to numerous world-class restaurants and cafés. Each establishment showcases its own unique style, featuring the best local produce and vineyards.
Akaroa is an enchanting blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural charm. With its French heritage, stunning landscapes, diverse activities, and exquisite cuisine, this little corner of New Zealand offers an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking to explore a unique and captivating destination.
Step back in time and discover the fascinating geological history of Akaroa Harbour, a captivating natural wonder forged by volcanic activity between 11 and 6 million years ago. Nestled within the heart of Banks Peninsula, Akaroa's story is one of fire and water, as two colossal volcanic cones overlapped, forming a landscape that would eventually be shaped by the erosive forces of nature and the rising sea levels that flooded the valleys approximately 6,000 years ago.
At the centre of this dramatic transformation lies the Onawe Peninsula, believed to be the original vent of the Akaroa Volcano. This ancient giant, along with two other shield volcanoes, gave birth to Banks Peninsula between 12 and 6 million years ago. Shield volcanoes, a type of volcanic formation common and active in Hawaii, are characterised by their fluid lava flows, which gradually build up to form broad cones resembling a warrior's shield.
In its prime, the Akaroa Volcano was a colossal force of nature, boasting a diameter of 50km and towering over 1,800m above sea level. With an estimated volume of 1,200 cubic kilometres, it was a prominent feature of the landscape. However, time and the elements took their toll on Akaroa and its sister volcanoes, as erosion reduced them to half their original size. The subsequent rise in sea levels further shaped the landscape, transforming the eroded craters into the beautiful harbours of Akaroa and Lyttelton that we see today.
