Planning an Akaroa trip from Christchurch? We’ve done the hard work for you and created a day trip itinerary packed with activities, estimated travel time, and places to eat and drink along the way.

9am – Depart Christchurch City

Off we go! Depending on where you’re based in Christchurch allow an extra 5-10 minutes for the morning traffic which should ease as you approach 9am.

9:55 – 10:30am: Little River Town

After about a 1 hour drive, get a coffee and stretch your legs in Little River Town.

Photo credit: Little River Wairewa Community Trust (L), Little River Gallery (R)

Little River Cafe & Store

A popular cafe offering a wide array of sandwiches, rolls, wraps, pastries and baked treats. Quite hungry? Their kitchen offers homestyle cooking perfect for breakfasts and brunches. Barista coffees, teas, with garden seating out back.

Little River Gallery

A boutique gallery showcasing a revolving exhibition of New Zealand artists
As you continue your journey to Akaroa, there is a scenic look out on your side of the road about 5 minutes from Little River Town.

11:30am – Arrive in Akaroa

You’ve arrived! Park your car as the beautiful Akaroa town is best explored on foot. If you haven’t booked your Akaroa Nature Cruise/ Swimming with Dolphins ticket already, we have two spots where you can get them (advance booking recommended). Here’s a few activities worth your exploration prior to the nature cruise or swim.

Akaroa Lighthouse

Built in 1870, the wooden lighthouse offers not just a piece of Instagrammable history, but also a vantage point to take in the Akaroa harbour. A short walk from the wharf, it is free to enter but donations are welcomed and accepted.

Akaroa Museum

Learn about the history of Banks Peninsula and why Akaroa is often nicknamed the French town of New Zealand. The museum features three long term exhibitions and one short term exhibition galleries. Free entry, donations welcomed and accepted.

The Giant’s House

Award winning garden with whimsical, larger than life sculptures that’s recognised as of International and national significance. Also part of the garden is the Contemporary Art Gallery and the outdoor The Artist’s Palate cafe. Entry fees apply, no booking required, a short drive from Akaroa town.

Perhaps you prefer to fuel up before the cruise? There’s a wide range of lunch and coffee options, here’s are a few ideas:

The Crater Cafe: Croissants, pastries, baguettes by the local French baker Sam
The Cake Room: As the name suggests, this is the place for those with a sweet tooth. Cakes, slices, scones and tarts are their speciality along with premium teas (and coffee).
The Common Cafe & Garden Bar: Cafe menu with great cabinet offering. Ready for a drink? Take a sip from their selection of New Zealand wine and beer, you’re on holiday after all.
Kaimoana or Akaroa Fish n Chips: popular with Cantabrians is the fish n chips on offer. From freshly battered fish, seafood chowder, mussels, oysters to the town’s famous Akaroa salmon.

12:30pm: Swimming with Dolphins

Ready to tick off your bucket-list? Step into our world and immerse yourself in New Zealand’s authentic eco-tourism adventure. Encounter the wild Hector’s dolphins in their natural habitat and learn about wildlife conservation efforts in Akaroa. Small excursions with only 12 guests per boat, only available from October to April, advance booking highly recommended.
This is a 3.5 hour experience. Prefer a dryer adventure? Then our Akaroa Nature Cruise is right for you.

1:30pm: Akaroa Nature Cruise

Encounter the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin, Hector’s dolphins, along with New Zealand fur seals, coastal birds, and more as you cruise through the majestic landscape of an extinct volcanic crater.
Give yourself some time to check-in and get your boarding pass at our Main Wharf ticket office.
After checking in, take a snap on the wharf and soak in the beauty that is uniquely Akaroa. At 1:20pm boarding commences and we set sail at 1:30pm.
This is a 2 hour experience with complimentary tea and coffee onboard. There’s toilets onboard but these require walking down a small set of steps, accessible toilets are available at the ticket office. Book online to save time.

3:30 – 4:30pm: Shopping and browsing

Depending on if you’re taking the Swim or Cruise, you’ll arrive back on the wharf just in time for some last minute shopping in the town’s craft and souvenir shops.
Enjoy a taste of the French Peak wines at our Beach Road store and pick up a few souvenirs.
You might also consider the Protect Hector membership to help support local conservation efforts.

4:30pm: Departing Akaroa

As you depart Akaroa, you might have time to quickly nip into Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory shop, 15 minutes away from the township and on your way back to Christchurch. Enjoy a glimpse into their cheesemaking process, sample a few award-winning cheeses, and make the most of factory prices. The store closes at 5pm so time wisely!

6pm: Arrive in Christchurch

What a day! You’ve ticked off your bucket list, soaked in stunning views, enjoyed delicious local food, and best of all created moments worth sharing – with your travelling mate or on socials!

Why the rush?

Akaroa has so much more to offer and is truly worth an overnight stay. Enjoy your holiday at a leisurely pace and check out the town’s elevated French and fusion dining, walking trails, wineries, and more.

We look forward to welcoming you to Akaroa soon.