Akaroa Tour
Experience the picturesque beauty of Akaroa on a guided tour from Christchurch. Enjoy magnificent views of Lyttelton Harbour, the Southern Alps, and Akaroa Harbour. Delight in a cheese tasting, a scenic picnic, and a nature cruise to see Hectors Dolphins, Little Blue Penguins, and NZ Fur Seals.
- Duration
- ~8 hours
- Group size
- Up to 4 guests
- Price
- From $490 per person
- Distance
- 200 km
About this tour
Christchurch to Akaroa is 83 kilometres by road, set on a beautiful, sheltered harbour and overlooked by craggy volcanic hills. It is a popular weekend retreat with a population of around 750 people. It is predominantly a quiet spot, with a quaint village atmosphere. Cruise boats occasionally dock at the Harbour, bringing with it a bustle of tourists. We can check their docking schedules prior to our trip, if you wish to avoid any crowds and would like a more serene experience. The settlement has a unique French flavour and some quaint shops if you wish to enjoy some shopping.
The day starts leaving Christchurch via the Summit Road. This route gives you magnificent views over both the Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch City and out across the plains to the Southern Alps.
You will visit a cheese factory to enjoy some tastings at the last operating cheese factory at Barry's Bay. We will stop along the way, either on a remote beach or high above the many inlets, for a hot pot of morning tea and homemade bakes. There are lots of opportunities for photo stops, with spectacular views over Banks Peninsula. Later, we will enjoy a two-course delicious homemade picnic lunch in a scenic location.
Enjoy a cruise on the Black Cat boat. This nature cruise offers some wonderful variety including unique volcanic coastal scenery, NZ Fur Seals, and the endangered Hectors Dolphins as well as Little Blue Penguins.
What's included
- An experienced and knowledgeable local tour guide
- Return transport from Christchurch to Akaroa Village and Harbour
- Morning tea and a 2-course picnic lunch hamper made with natural ingredients
- 2-hour Harbour Nature Cruise
A typical day
- 9:00 AM
Depart Christchurch via Summit Road
Begin your journey from Christchurch, taking the scenic Summit Road route with magnificent views over Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch City, and the Southern Alps.
- 10:00 AM
Morning Tea Above the City
Stop for morning tea at a scenic location overlooking Lyttelton Harbour with views towards the Southern Alps. Enjoy homemade bakes and a hot pot of tea.
- 11:00 AM
Walk on Stony Beach at Kaitorete Spit
Take a walk along the remote Stony Beach at Kaitorete Spit, with opportunities for stunning photos of the coastal scenery.
- 12:00 PM
Barry's Bay Cheese Factory
Visit the last operating cheese factory at Barry's Bay. Enjoy viewing the cheese-making process and sample delicious local cheeses.
- 12:30 PM
Picnic Lunch in Scenic Location
Enjoy a delicious two-course homemade picnic lunch in a scenic location close to Akaroa Village, made with natural ingredients.
- 1:15 PM
Check in for Black Cat Harbour Nature Cruise
Check in for the Black Cat Harbour Nature Cruise. Prepare to view Hectors Dolphins, NZ Fur Seals, and Little Blue Penguins, as well as stunning volcanic scenery from the catamaran boat.
- 1:30 PM
Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
Embark on a 2-hour nature cruise through Akaroa Harbour. Experience unique volcanic coastal scenery and spot native wildlife including endangered Hectors Dolphins, NZ Fur Seals, and Little Blue Penguins.
- 3:30 PM
Return to Christchurch
Begin the return journey to Christchurch via the main highway, with time to reflect on your day's adventures.
- 5:30 PM
Arrive in Christchurch
Return to Christchurch with unforgettable memories of Akaroa's natural beauty and wildlife.
Good to know
- What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for changeable weather, sunscreen, a camera, and an open mind.
- Weather and changes
- South Island weather changes fast. Craig adjusts stops and timings for weather and road conditions on the day, and will suggest another date if conditions are unsafe.
- Cancellation
- Cancel more than 7 days before the tour for a full refund, less a 10% administration fee. Cancellations within 7 days are not refunded. If Craig has to cancel, for example for unsafe weather, you choose a new date or a full refund.
What happens after you enquire
- Send your dates, group size, and interests. Craig replies within 24 hours.
- Craig confirms availability and the price, and adjusts the itinerary with you.
- Your booking is confirmed in writing. Craig picks you up on the day.
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- Plan a custom tour
Combine stops from several tours, or go somewhere else on the South Island.
- Stay with Craig
Homestay accommodation in Craig's Christchurch home.
- Meet your guide
Craig plans, drives, and guides every tour himself.
Tell me what you'd like to see
Send me your dates, your group size, and any places you have in mind.
- Phone
- +64 21 1811 570 (also on WhatsApp)
- info@cannztours.com