Akaroa attractions

At the core, we’re a family business with our management team being 6th & 7th generation Banks Peninsula locals. Alongside our family members, we have a passionate team who are committed to you having a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We keep our passenger groups small so that you have more room to move around the boat, and enjoy your cruise without overcrowding or missing dolphin sightings due to a shortage of viewing space. Our boat has a low-lying profile which means you get closer to the wildlife! When you board our boat you’ll be offered a complimentary drink. Choose from beer, award-winning local wine or non-alcoholic options. You’ll also enjoy our famous home-baked treats made from our family recipe and served to you by our delightful onboard crew. We are committed to the conservation of our harbour's environment and wildlife. After all, it’s the centre point of our business. *Check-in is 30 minutes prior to the departure, with boarding 15 minutes beforehand.

Alpacas Farm is an unparalleled opportunity to get up close and personal with alpacas, learn about this loving animal, and create some memories with friends and family in a stunning location. Note - guests must drive to the farm, or see operator website for transport providers.

Cruise through the stunning Akaroa Harbour and encounter some of New Zealand’s most unique marine wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphin, NZ fur seals, penguins, and seabirds. Set aboard a spacious, modern catamaran with large viewing decks and indoor seating, this award-winning nature cruise offers comfort, panoramic views, and expert commentary from your knowledgeable skipper. You’ll explore an ancient volcanic crater, marvel at towering 500-foot sea cliffs and vibrant rock formations. Learn about local conservation efforts and Akaroa’s rich Māori and European history. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a free postcard. With guaranteed departures (weather permitting), it’s a must-do for nature and wildlife lovers and families alike. As New Zealand’s first eco-tourism operator, we’re proud to support the dolphin protection efforts alongside the Department of Conservation and the NZ Whale & Dolphin Trust. Your ticket directly supports this work.

Escape city lights to Akaroa's pristine dark skies for our intimate Night Awe tour. Join expert astronomer Luca for a captivating experience through the Southern Hemisphere's celestial wonders. Experience the cosmos with two powerful telescopes: our 10-inch Dobsonian for stunning visual observations and a ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope for live astrophotography. Witness the breathtaking Milky Way, planets, vibrant nebulae, and distant galaxies. Receive incredible digital photo souvenirs! Instant nebula/deep-sky photos: Captured live with our smart telescope, ready for instant social media sharing! Your personalized souvenir photo under the night sky: A beautiful digital keepsake of you (or your group) among the stars, sent next day. Enjoy complimentary hot drink and cozy blankets for ultimate comfort. Our small group size ensures a personalized experience. Conveniently located at Akaroa Heritage Park, just minutes from town. Book your unparalleled stargazing experience today!

For this early-bird adventure, you’ll set out in the morning from Akaroa to explore the outer coast of the Pōhatu Marine Reserve by kayak. You’ll take a scenic drive, crossing over the crater rim of the Akaroa Volcano and arriving in Flea Bay. From here, you’ll head out to sea in your kayak, paddling across calm waters and taking in sights like the island arch and sea caves. You’ll be on the lookout for all kinds of marine wildlife, including penguins, seals, sea birds and even the world’s smallest dolphin.

Our tours numbers are kept limited, offering you a small and intimate tour that will take you where others can't with amazing views of New Zealands wildlife. Our friendly and knowledgeable crew love meeting and talking with our guests, and Scruffy our friendly boat dog, joins us on our afternoon trips. Tony, a real Kiwi, has been exploring the waters around Banks Peninsula since the 1960s. He'll entertain you with the stories of his adventures and share his enthusiasm for this wonderful environment and stunning wildlife.

Explore the scenic beauty of Akaroa at your leisure with a self-guided electric scooter tour. Cruise along the breathtaking east coast with an eco-friendly scooter, utilizing a detailed trail map that guides you through hidden gems, charming beaches, and a local vineyard. Each rental includes a personal picnic set, allowing you to enjoy a meal amidst stunning views. With the flexibility to navigate at your own pace and the assurance of support if needed, this adventure promises a unique way to experience Akaroa's natural charm.

Sail in the crater of an extinct volcano with the rarest dolphins in the world. Long encounters and beautiful scenery. 3 hour trip on a quiet sailboat in nature. You can also see penguins, seals and albatross. The Fox II is a vintage sailboat, almost 100 years old! Made from wood, 2 masts and 6 sails. It is the oldes ketch in New Zealand. Has been in movies, TV shows and is famous all over the world. Visit amazing sea caves, cliffs, waterfalls and venture out into the pacific on this safe, quiet, truely memorable experience. Eco friendly, with minimal carbon footprint. Make the choice for a better future.

The first and only tour of its kind in New Zealand! We are the closest dark sky experience to Christchurch, just a 90-minute scenic drive away! This unmatched 3-hour experience combines daytime solar observation with spectacular night stargazing, all in one unforgettable evening. You'll gain access to three specialized telescopes—a dedicated solar scope, an optical telescope and the ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope. Witness history as the ZWO captures instant, shareable digital photos of the Sun and vibrant nebulae live! Savour a delicious local grazing platter as the light transitions, creating a magical atmosphere before the stars appear. Our small group size guarantees personalized guidance from an expert astronomer and maximum comfort. You leave with two incredible digital souvenirs: your instant celestial captures AND a beautiful personalized photo of you under Akaroa's starry sky. Don't just look up—experience the universe! Book this comprehensive, photo-rich tour now.

Enjoy a local 2.5 hour guided sightseeing shore excursion of Akaroa exploring the beautiful township, harbour, and this portion of the Banks Peninsula. After being picked up from the Akaroa Wharf, your coach will travel through township and the inner bays of the Akaroa before arriving at a local cheese factory, for tastings, and travelling along the old volcanic crater rim for some magnificent views of the harbour and peninsula. Afterwards, head back into Akaroa for a guided tour of the famous Giants House, with its beautiful gardens and mosaic sculptures. This tour is perfect for those looking for a short tour of the local sights and attractions!

Akaroa guided kayak safari provide a premium 3 hour guided sea kayak safari with a local nature/sea kayak guide through's pristine marine reserve and harbour. You will get the most water time by choosing this kayak safari as we are located right in the heart of Akaroa so tour time is not taken up by driving to the launching area. The wildlife, scenery and knowledgable local guide will make this an experience you won't forget. We are always the first operators on the water and often have the whole harbour to ourselves as the boat tours start after we finish. Peaceful serene and wild sums up the magic of kayaking in the early morning through this idyllic marine reserve. We aim to have zero impact on the conservation area. There is no other place quite like it. Come and see for yourself how special it is here!

New Zealand's only guided DAILY tour of the Sun! Discover the Sun like never before. Located just a 90-minute scenic drive from Christchurch, this unique daytime experience offers a safe, fascinating look at our nearest star, perfect for all ages and Akaroa day trips. You will observe sunspots, solar flares, and intricate surface activity in stunning detail through our specialized solar telescope. Our expert astronomer will guide you, sharing captivating facts and making this a hands-on, exciting introduction to astronomy. We use our cutting-edge ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope to capture high-resolution images of the Sun live. These incredible digital photos are then shared with you instantly! Plus, easily snap your own stunning visuals directly through the telescope with our smartphone adapter. Leave with unique, Insta-worthy visuals you won't find anywhere else. This short, educational, and high-tech tour is ideal for all ages. Book your spot now for an unforgettable experience!

This is a must do for those who like to get active while exploring new places! If you have a spare 2 hours up your sleeve and are confident riding a ‘normal’ mountain bike then why not join us on a premium guided electric mountain bike tour, it may just be one of the highlights of your trip! Our popular rides are the perfect way to explore the village and surrounds, if you have conventional mountain bike experience and have a basic level of fitness this trip is for you. You will be amazed as you cruise up terrain you wouldn’t dream of on a conventional bike, with our powerful pedal assist Scott Bosch systems Ebiking is making the impossible… now possible!. Great for couples, families and friends. This tour includes mixed terrain, some steep ascents and descents, sealed roads through out. Two routes to choose from to suit different fitness levels. Warning- Electric Mountain biking is very addictive, we ride FURTHER, FASTER HIGHER without the sweat! Once is never enough!

A 2.5 hour shore excursion which combines a guided local tour of Akaroa township and harbours with a tour of a working sheep farm. After being picked up from the Akaroa Wharf, your coach will travel through township and the inner bays of the Akaroa before arriving at a local cheese factory, for tastings, and travelling along the old volcanic crater rim for some magnificent views of the harbour and peninsula. Following a great photo opportunity, your driver will take you to a nearby local sheep farm where you'll be able to enjoy sheepdog work, a sheep shearing demonstration, and afternoon tea, all before returning reuniting you with your cruise ship.

On this nature safari experience, you'll be able to visit the award-winning Wildside Conservation Zone. On the way to the region, your guide will share information about the zone’s history. You'll also stop for photo opportunities with views of Akaroa Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. You'll be able to explore the area’s rich history, native flora and fauna and Pohatu’s penguin conservation program. On the safari, you'll get scenic views of the harbour, outer coast, forested hillsides and farmland. You'll also be able to visit a local family’s farm, meet some sheep, see white-flippered penguins and monitor their nesting sites. Depending on the time you visit, you might also be able to see rehabilitation efforts like swim therapy and supplemental feedings.

Download a vibrantly-narrated mp3 audio guide combined with a map detailing the area of your tour. Nestled on the East Coast of the South Island, the quiet seaside town of Akaroa is best known for its volcanic hills and the dolphins that are found in the bay. On this self-guided audio tour, you will enjoy the tranquil setting and the stunning natural views along the harbour. You will also see the old lighthouse and learn about its interesting French history at the Akaroa Museum. Visit the town wharf, whale try pots, war memorial, corner of Lavaud and Balguerie, St Patrick's Catholic Church, the Old French cemetery, the giant's house, French forecourt and Rue Jolie. Known as the Paris of New Zealand this tour will delight and enthral all at your own pace.

A unique shore excursion from Akaroa which combines a tour of the Banks Peninsula and Christchurch with a guided tour of the famous Giant's House. While your ship is berthed at port, travel from Akaroa to Christchurch via the Akaroa Highway affording some beautiful views of the Banks Peninsula. After a brief stop at the Botanical Gardens, set off on a guided tour of the city centre which highlights the earthquake damage of 2011 with its rebuild efforts and surviving landmarks. Here you'll make a stop with time to explore on foot. Afterwards, head up to the Sign of the Takahe on the Port Hills with some incredible views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps, before heading back to Akaroa where a guided tour of the famous Giants House, with its stunning sculptures and gardens, have been arranged for your enjoyment.

Take a guided Christchurch city tour when your ship is docked in Akaroa port, and visit a traditional sheep farm to experience life in rural New Zealand. After seeing the Christchurch city sights, your Akaroa shore excursion takes you into the countryside to feed the animals, watch a sheep-shearing demonstration and see sheep dogs at work.

On this four-wheel-drive tour, you’ll get to explore the Banks Peninsula with a local guide. You’ll travel to the area where the Wildside Project works to protect the local wildlife. You'll also learn about Pohatu’s penguin conservation programme. As you travel, you’ll be able to take in scenic views of Akaroa Harbour and the Pacific Ocean while your guide shares stories about the history of the region. At a family farm, you’ll meet the pet sheep and have a chance to see the white-flippered penguins as you monitor nest sites. Your tour will include a homemade afternoon tea.

Our Guided Kayak Safari is a great way to spend your time in amazing Akaroa! This is a once in a lifetime chance to paddle through a marine reserve in an extinct volcano basin. Take in breath-taking scenery and witness amazing geology that is unique to the area. You may have chance sightings of some of the most endangered marine life on the planet including Hector Dolphins, White-flippered penguins, and native sea birds which reside in Akaroa Harbour. All of this is only 80 minutes from Christchurch! Small group numbers are key as we are visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas, enjoy exploring this marine reserve in a low-impact and environmentally responsible way with your local kayak/nature guide. Close encounters. No noise, No engines, No crowds, No pollution. So come and join us! Explore, Experience and Enjoy!

Experience the grand architecture and beautiful gardens of Christchurch when your ship is in port in Akaroa. Your shore excursion from Akaroa port also includes a scenic trip through the Banks Peninsula and entry to the most popular attraction in Christchurch, the International Antarctic Centre. Enjoy the center’s Snow and Ice Experience, Blue Penguin Encounter and take an exhilarating ride in an all-terrain Hagglund vehicle.

While your ship is in port in Akaroa Harbour, take a shore excursion to tour the scenic Banks Peninsula and visit the city of Christchurch. You’ll see how Christchurch is emerging from the devastation of the 2011 earthquake. Take a brief stroll through the city’s beautiful botanic gardens and admire New Zealand’s magnificent scenery.

See the sights of Christchurch when your ship is in Akaroa port, and explore the city on a comprehensive tour. Your Akaroa shore excursion also includes a trip through the beautiful Banks Peninsula and a visit to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Meet the elusive kiwi, New Zealand’s national bird, along with exotic visitors including deer, wallabies, otters, gibbons and lemurs.

See the sights of Christchurch when your ship is docked in Akaroa port, then enjoy one of the adrenaline-charged adventures New Zealand is famous for on a wild jet-boating ride on the Waimakiriri River. Combining the grand urban architecture of Christchurch and the exhilarating experience of jet-boating, you’ll see both sides of New Zealand on this city and river shore excursion.

We proudly provide only the latest model of brand new Scott pedal assist Electric Mountain bikes which will have you whizzing around grinning from ear to ear. Our local guides love to share this incredible slice of paradise with visitors and will ensure you have an unforgettable tour.

Have you ever wanted to ride a bike up an extinct volcano towering over the crystal blue waters of the pacific ocean? Well now is your chance....Treat yourself to this energetic yet soulful experience and bring out the inner adventurer in you. This is a must do for those who like to be active while exploring the best this amazing corner of NZ has to offer. If you have 2 hours up your sleeve to Join us on a premium fully guided Ebike tour it may just be be one of the highlights of your trip! Our brand new Scott pedal assist mountain bikes make riding a dream. So what are you waiting for! Lets ride!

This will be one of the best if not THE best experiences you will have during your NZ vacation! There is no better way to maximise your day in stunning Akaroa! If you love to get some exercise while exploring with a local guide this tour is for you. Get the best of both worlds as you pedal and paddle your way through this action packed unforgettable day of adventure with us. Incredible views from the hilltops above Akaroa await! Get up close and personal with the marine/nature reserve as you sea kayak through its pristine turquoise waters of the extinct volcanic crater. Enjoy touring with Local knowledgeable guides who love to share their knowledge Small intimate groups are key for safety and opportunity to chat with the guides through out the tours Exploring the area from two different perspectives will blow your mind and there is no better way to make the most of your time in this special place! And of course you get some Great exercise!

Book your Private Transfer from Akaroa Cruise Port to Christchurch International Airport (CHC). Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport/port transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

Book your Private Transfer from Akaroa Cruise Port to Christchurch city hotels or any addres. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door port/city transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

Join one of the best kayak adventures in New Zealand, jump into a safe stable NZ made sea kayak and follow our local guides as we take you on a spectacular tour through an untouched marine reserve which now exists in a flooded volcanic crater from millions of years ago. The geology and scenery will blow your mind during this intimate sea-kayaking safari. Paddle along through the clear turqouise waters of the pacific, you get the feeling you are in a postcard!  Your guide will keep watch for sightings of native New Zealand marine and bird life including Hector dolphins, white flippered penguins and NZ fur seals. Did we mention this is a bird watching paradise? We travel in small groups to ensure we have zero impact on the environment. You can rest easy knowing you have booked the most environmentally sensitive tour in the harbour. Soak up the serenity of this little slice of paradise and this activity is often voted the highlight of a NZ holiday!