Welcome to Banks Peninsula, home of The Hector’s dolphins and eco-tourism pioneers Black Cat Cruises

THE BENEFITS OF SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS

Getting up close and personal with the Hector’s dolphins of Banks Peninsula has been an unforgettable experience for hundreds of people every year. For many, having the chance to swim with these endangered creatures is simply an amazing opportunity in itself. However, there is more to swimming with the dolphins than just the thrill of […]

20 BIRDS YOU SHOULD EXPECT TO SEE IN AKAROA

Banks Peninsula is well known for its gorgeous scenery and breath taking views. But amongst the vast beauty found in the area, there lives a wide array of wildlife. Akaroa’s birds are just a few of many creatures you’ll find, but if you’re around in the warmer months, keep an eye out and there’s a […]

PLACES TO STAY IN AKAROA

Experience the charm, character and colour of our little town, Akaroa. No matter when or how you decide to venture over to the beautiful bays, there’s always a friendly and welcoming place to stay. Whether you’re after a cosy bach to while away the rest of the winter in or thinking of somewhere to put […]

10 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT NEW ZEALAND’S ONLY NATIVE DOLPHIN

Hector’s Dolphins, (or Cephalorhynchus Hectori , for those of you with an affinity for Latin) are the friendly creatures that grace the waters near New Zealand shores. Native to Aotearoa, and commonly found along the coast of Banks Peninsula, these dolphins have sparked excitement in local scientists for the past 30 or so years, and […]

BANKS PENINSULA CRUISING

Cyclists high on the Summit Road above Akaroa Harbour during the iconic race, Le Race. Photo credit; Tailwind Events Banks Peninsula offers a huge variety of options to cruise on the bike, both for road and mountain biking. The area starting life as a volcanic island and the Peninsula’s two major volcanos’ have now sunk […]

THE BREEZE 63

The weather may feel a bit wintery but we’ve taken the last few months to get ourselves ready for the upcoming season. After all, spring is just around the corner. Below are announcements of new projects coming this season and some of the highlights of the winter. Thanks for reading. Cheers Paul   Major Akaroa […]

CHRISTMAS PARTY VENUES & IDEAS IN CHRISTCHURCH

Here is a list of interesting things to do in Christchurch if you are planning and organising a staff or office Christmas Party this year.  If you think you have an idea to add to this list please add them in the comments below. PARTY BOAT CRUISE Canterbury Cat Just 15 minutes from Christchurch lies […]

THE BREEZE 62

We are starting to head into our traditional off season but we’ll be out on the harbours every day. Below are some highlights from the season just completed including some of our best photos, a unique marriage proposal and our on going efforts to protect Hector’s dolphins. Thanks for reading. Cheers Paul   Photo of […]

TOURISM OPERATOR TALKS TO DOLPHINS

Dolphi Chat BCC2 April 12 Amazing technology previously only available in the scientific community that allows humans to talk to dolphins is being launched by leading New Zealand tourism operator Black Cat Cruises. New analysis of results from a 1970s experiment found that Dolphins ‘talk’ to each other using the same process to make their high-pitched […]