Christchurch Day Tours
Day Trips from Christchurch to Akaroa – Explore the French Coastal Gem
Your Guide to Akaroa Day Trips from Christchurch
Discover Akaroa: A Day Trip to New Zealand’s Unique Coastal Village
Discover Akaroa with Canterbury Trails: A Day of Scenic Beauty, History, and Adventure
Escape Christchurch for a day and uncover the magic of Akaroa, a picturesque coastal village nestled within the volcanic landscapes of the Banks Peninsula.
As the only French settlement in New Zealand, Akaroa offers a unique blend of colonial heritage, vibrant marine wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive along the famed Summit Road, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of farmlands, Akaroa Harbour, and the distant Southern Alps.
Upon arrival, explore Akaroa’s quaint streets, boutique shops, and historic sites before embarking on your chosen adventure. Whether kayaking along the coastline, swimming with Hector’s dolphins, or visiting a working sheep farm, every tour is carefully curated by Canterbury Trails to showcase the best of Akaroa.
The day is rounded off with a relaxing lunch at a local café and optional stops at Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory, Little River Art Gallery, or Vince’s Gemstone Museum on your return journey to Christchurch.
With Canterbury Trails, you’re not just visiting Akaroa—you’re experiencing its essence.
Akaroa Sea Kayaking Safari from Christchurch
Price: $530 per person – Child $265 pp
Departs: Christchurch 8.30 am.
Duration: 8 to 9 Hours approx
Experience Akaroa from a unique perspective on this guided sea kayaking safari. Begin your adventure with an introduction from your kayak guide, who will ensure you’re comfortable and equipped for exploring the stunning coastline. Paddle through calm waters, past volcanic cliffs, and possibly encounter local wildlife, including Hector’s dolphins.
A late lunch awaits at the award-winning Bully Hayes Cafe, a perfect way to end your kayaking adventure before heading back to Christchurch.
Akaroa Farm Tour from Christchurch
Price: $495 per person – Child $248 pp
Departs: Christchurch 8.30 am.
Duration: 8 to 9 Hours approx
Step back in time with a visit to a working sheep farm on the stunning Banks Peninsula. After exploring Akaroa’s French-inspired village, enjoy a scenic drive along the Summit Road to Paua Bay Farm, where you’ll experience rural New Zealand life.
Highlights include a sheepdog demonstration, traditional sheep shearing, and stories from farm owner Murray Johns. Complete your farm visit with a delightful farm-style afternoon tea in a serene setting.
Swim with Hector’s Dolphins in Akaroa
Price: $600 per person – Child $300 pp
Departs: Christchurch 8.30 am.
Duration: 8 to 9 Hours approx
Dive into an unforgettable encounter with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector’s dolphins. Begin your adventure with Black Cat Cruises, who will guide you through a safety briefing before you enter the waters of Akaroa Harbour. These playful creatures may choose to interact with you, creating a truly magical experience.
Explore the charming streets of Akaroa before or after your dolphin swim, where boutique shops and harborfront cafes add to the day’s allure.
Akaroa Nature Cruise: View Hector’s Dolphins and More
Price: $495 per person – Child $248 pp
Departs: Christchurch 8.30 am.
Duration: 8 to 9 Hours approx
Embark on a scenic nature cruise through Akaroa Harbour, where you’ll encounter some of New Zealand’s most captivating marine wildlife. See Hector’s dolphins, little blue penguins, New Zealand fur seals, and an array of seabirds as you cruise through calm waters framed by dramatic volcanic cliffs.
Your skipper will share fascinating insights into the area’s history, geology, and wildlife, making this an educational and awe-inspiring experience.
Discover Akaroa: From Christchurch to Coastal Charm
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Morning Departure from Christchurch
- Begin your day with a convenient pickup from your Christchurch accommodation at 8:30 am. Sit back and relax as you travel through the scenic Banks Peninsula, pausing along the Summit Road to admire sweeping views of the Canterbury Plains, Akaroa Harbour, and the Southern Alps.
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Explore the Village of Akaroa
- Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the charm of New Zealand’s only French settlement. Stroll through picturesque streets, browse boutique shops and galleries, or visit the museum to uncover the village’s fascinating history.
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Your Chosen Activity
- Kayaking: Paddle along the serene waters of Akaroa Harbour, guided by an expert.
- Farm Tour: Experience traditional sheep farming with live demonstrations and a farm-style afternoon tea.
- Swim with Dolphins: Join a guided swim to encounter Hector’s dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Nature Cruise: Spot Hector’s dolphins, penguins, and seals on a scenic harbor cruise.
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Lunch at an Award-Winning Café
- Delight in fresh, locally sourced cuisine at one of Akaroa’s renowned harborfront cafés.
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Return Journey with Scenic Stops
- Conclude your day with optional visits to the Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory, Little River Art Gallery, or Vince’s Gemstone Museum, depending on timing. Return to Christchurch by approximately 5:45 pm.
The Perfect End to Your Akaroa Experience
End your day enriched by the charm, history, and adventure that Akaroa offers. Whether you’ve paddled its serene waters, connected with its rural heritage, or encountered its unique marine life, every moment in Akaroa is crafted by Canterbury Trails to ensure a journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Book your Akaroa day tour today and let Canterbury Trails take care of every detail for an unforgettable escape from Christchurch.
Other Day Trip Options From Christchurch
Christchurch to Kaikoura
Discover the coastal paradise of Kaikoura, where snow-capped mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy whale watching, dolphin encounters, and stunning marine views.
For more info:Kaikoura Day Trips
Arthurs Pass + Tranz Alipne
Journey into the Southern Alps with a day trip to Arthur’s Pass. Experience dramatic mountain landscapes, picturesque hiking trails, and the charm of a historic alpine village.
For more info: Arthur’s Pass Day Trips
City Sightseeing & Wineries
Explore Christchurch’s vibrant city attractions before venturing to the nearby Waipara wine region. Indulge in world-class wines, rolling vineyards, and scenic countryside.
For more info: City Sightseeing & Wineries
