Akaroa Day Tour
”French Village by the sea”
Barry’s Bay Cheese, Harbour Cruise, Hector’s Dolphins, Art
The Maori name for Akaroa is derived from the word Whakaroa or Whangaroa, meaning "Long Harbour". The current spelling of "Akaroa" is a result of a misspelling by early surveyors who had difficulty hearing the soft "wh" sound at the beginning of the word.
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The Maori name for Akaroa is derived from the word Whakaroa or Whangaroa, meaning "Long Harbour". The current spelling of "Akaroa" is a result of a misspelling by early surveyors who had difficulty hearing the soft "wh" sound at the beginning of the word. ..................
Escape Christchurch for a full-day adventure to Akaroa, one of the South Island’s most charming seaside towns!
Travel through Little River, stopping for coffee and art, then pause at the scenic hilltop lookout for jaw-dropping views over the peninsula. In Akaroa, hop aboard the Black Cat Cruise to spot seals, penguins, and the rare Hector’s dolphins.
Refuel with fresh fish and chips at the Kai Moana Takeaways, then explore the village at your own pace — stroll the colourful Giants House Art Garden, wander to the lighthouse, or check out the museum.
On the way home, we will stop at the famous Barry’s Bay Cheese Shop, and take the scenic route back via Lyttleton.
Adventure Xpress makes it easy to see the best of Akaroa in a day — small groups, friendly local driver/guides, and unforgettable scenery.
Tour Highlights
Akaroa Nature Cruise - Fur Seals, Hector’s Dolphins, Marine Life encounter
Lunch at one of the “best” fish and chip shops in New Zealand (our personal opinion)
Sightseeing both on land and by sea
Unique French inspired village by the sea with art and a local museum
Nature Walks
Inclusions
Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation
Local experienced and friendly driver/guide
Clean and comfortable transport
Small group touring bus
Tour Logistics and drive time information
We will travel to Akaroa via State Highway 75, connecting Christchurch to Little River and then along the peninsula roads into Akaroa. The roads are sealed and well-maintained, but they can be narrow and winding. As we approach Akaroa Harbour, the road descends through winding hills with sweeping views of the harbour.
This drive is one of the highlights of the day, offering ever-changing landscapes from pastoral plains to rugged hills and finally to coastal vistas.
Drive time from Christchurch to Akaroa via Lyttleton - 1hrs 55min (not including stops)
Tour duration: 10 hours (approx)
Distance from Christchurch: 83 km (51.5 miles)
Total distance: 166 km (103.148 miles)
Itinerary
Departing Christchurch | 10-hour return journey
7:30 AM – Depart Christchurch
Your day begins with a cruisy drive out of Christchurch, heading over the rolling hills of Banks Peninsula. Sit back, relax, and soak up the scenery — this is one seriously pretty drive!
8:30 AM – Coffee Stop at Little River
We’ll pull in for a quick caffeine fix and a wander through the Little River Art Gallery, packed with local art, crafts, and quirky Kiwi creations.
9:00 AM – Scenic Stop at the Hilltop Lookout
Before we descend into Akaroa harbour, we’ll make a photo stop at the Hilltop Lookout. From here, you’ll get jaw-dropping views over the peninsula, the harbour, and the sparkling blue sea below — the perfect photo op!
10:00 AM – Arrive in Akaroa
Welcome to Akaroa, the charming “French Village by the Sea.” You’ll jump aboard your Black Cat Cruise to spot seals, penguins, and the world’s rarest and smallest dolphins — the Hector’s dolphins.
12:30 PM – Lunch at Kai Moana Fish & Chip Shop
You can’t beat a classic — fresh fish and chips by the water. Simple, delicious, and oh so Kiwi.
1:30 PM – Explore Akaroa Village
Enjoy free time to explore this unique seaside spot. You might:
Wander through the colourful Giants House Art Garden
Take a walk to the Akaroa Lighthouse or through the Tane’s Track bush walk
Visit the Akaroa Museum or browse the boutique shops along the main street
3:30 PM – Depart Akaroa
We’ll begin the journey back toward Christchurch, with a tasty pit stop along the way.
4:00 PM – Barrys Bay Cheese Stop
Sample some legendary local cheeses at Barrys Bay Cheese Shop, crafting award-winning dairy goodness since 1895.
5:00 PM – Scenic Return via Diamond Harbour
Relax as we take the long way home through Diamond Harbour, with its stunning coastal scenery.
5:30–6:00 PM – Arrive back in Christchurch
We’ll drop you back at your accommodation, full of good food, fresh sea air, and unforgettable memories.