With its idyllic natural harbor and colorfully painted buildings, Akaroa has a certain je ne sais quoi. Founded in the 19th century, New Zealand’s only French settlement remains distinctly Francophile—you can even dine at French-style bistros and purchase freshly baked baguettes from local bakeries. Aside from embracing all things français, popular things to do in Akaroa include walking to the landmark Akaroa Lighthouse, visiting the mosaic-adorned Giants House, and boating and kayaking along the Banks Peninsula, famous for its rare Hector’s dolphins.
Mid-spring through early fall (October–April) is the main tourist season in Akaroa and the best time for swimming, hiking, and wildlife-watching tours. Dolphin-watching cruises run year-round, but October through March is calving season, affording the chance to spot dolphins with their young. If you’re visiting in peak season, make sure you stick around for the weekly Akaroa Farmers Market, held on Saturdays at St Patrick’s Catholic Church from October to April.
Akaroa sits along the Banks Peninsula, about a 1.5-hour drive or bus ride southeast of Christchurch. The small town is easy to explore on foot, and you can embark on great hikes, such as the Banks Track and Skyline Circuit, that lead along the coast. You’ll need your own transportation to travel further around the Banks Peninsula, or book a boat cruise and take in the views from the water.
Dolphin watching isn’t the only animal encounter you can enjoy in Akaroa. Visit the Pohatu Marine Reserve to see New Zealand’s largest inland colony of white-flippered penguins, or head to Shamarra Alpacas to meet the farm’s 100-strong herd of alpacas. About 900 endangered Hector’s dolphins live around the peninsula, and you might also spot New Zealand fur seals, southern right whales, and a variety of sea birds.
