Akaroa and the Bays, Akaroa (2025)

22/12/2024

Fire & Ice is a long established family business and one of Akaroa’s iconic attractions. Owners, Margy, Dai & Esther travel the world to seek out quality gemstones, pearls and minerals which they bring back to the workshop for their jewellers to use in the hand-crafting of their extensive range of jewellery.

Upon your visit you will experience helpful, knowledgeable staff who will take pleasure in showing you their exquisite range of Gemstone Jewellery, including New Zealand Greenstone, Paua Shell and the exquisite New Zealand Blue Paua Pearl.

17/12/2024

Immerse yourself into the darkness of the Banks Peninsula and the wonders of the Southern Skies. Akaroa Stargazing offers intimate, personalised tours, inviting you to explore the night sky like never before. Embark on an evening stargazing tour, a planetarium-like indoor tour, or the daytime Solar Explorer tour, where you can safely view the sun through a specialised telescope.

Capture incredible photos of the sun, planets, or moon with our smartphone adapters. And who knows, you might witness the breathtaking Aurora Australis – the Southern Lights – dancing across the horizon. Perfect for all ages, these tours combine awe-inspiring views with fascinating science for an unforgettable experience.

12/12/2024

If you're looking for a unique and tranquil experience in Akaroa, a visit to Shamarra Alpacas is a must. Nestled in the picturesque hills, Shamarra offers visitors the chance to meet and interact with these gentle, curious creatures in their natural surroundings. With stunning views of Akaroa Harbour and the surrounding landscapes, it’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Whether you’re a local or a traveller, spending time with the alpacas provides a rare opportunity to learn about their care, enjoy their playful personalities, and take in the serene beauty of the area. It’s an unforgettable experience for families, animal lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape in one of New Zealand’s most charming towns.

Tours last approximately one hour and run daily at 11am, 1pm, and 4pm (closed on Christmas Day). Admission is $55 for adults, $30 for children aged 4-15, $50 for NZ SuperGold holders, and $155 for a family pass (2 adults & 2 children).

Be sure to add Shamarra Alpacas to your itinerary — you won’t regret it!

08/12/2024

Explore Akaroa Harbour from the water with Ecoseaker 🐬

Originally built as a chase boat for the America’s Cup Yacht Racing, this vessel has seen world-class action on the water. Later, it served with Coastguard NZ, saving lives along New Zealand’s coast.

Now, it’s your turn to experience the harbour aboard this incredible boat. From spotting dolphins and penguins to exploring Akaroa’s natural beauty, EcoSeaker offers an unforgettable eco-friendly adventure.

Find out more and book your trip on their website - https://ecoseaker.nz/

05/12/2024

We have something exciting to announce... introducing our new & improved Akaroa & the Bays website!

Whether you're planning to visit or if you call the Akaroa region home, there is something for everyone.

Here's a breakdown of what you'll find:
👉 Explore Akaroa - discover the best of what our town has to offer, from scenic views and outdoor adventures to rich history.
👉Where to Eat - discover a selection of local cafes, restaurants, food producers and must-try foodie spots.
👉 Where to Stay - discover your perfect getaway, from cosy cottages to waterfront retreats.
👉 What's On - stay in the loop with the latest events, activities and local happenings.

We’ve also made it easier for local businesses and organizations to connect with visitors and showcase everything that makes Akaroa special.

Jump online now at www.akaroa.com and let us know what you think!

03/12/2024

Akaroa Butchery & Deli proudly offers New Zealand produced grass-fed beef and lamb cut, free-farmed pork, venison, Akaroa salmon, Bostock organic chicken and a delicious range of small batch sausages, bacon and sliced ham made in store.

Browse their chillers, freezers and shelves for a wide range of meal options, flavour bombs and platter favourites including locally made Barry's Bay cheese, condiments, pickles, salami and more!

They do their best to offer gluten and dairy free options within their ranges.

Akaroa Butchery is a owner-operated business - T Dunn and Julia Atkinson-Dunn, caretaking the rich history of meat and food offered from this site for over 100 years for the local community and visitors of Akaroa.

01/12/2024

Shaken, stirred, and perfectly chilled! Ready to sip on something sweet? Head on in to see the team at Bully Hayes for an epic selection of cocktails including this strawberry daiquiri all summer long 🍹

28/11/2024

If you're looking for a unique and tranquil experience in Akaroa, a visit to Shamarra Alpacas is a must. Nestled in the picturesque hills, Shamarra offers visitors the chance to meet and interact with these gentle, curious creatures in their natural surroundings. With stunning views of Akaroa Harbour and the surrounding landscapes, it’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Whether you’re a local or a traveller, spending time with the alpacas provides a rare opportunity to learn about their care, enjoy their playful personalities, and take in the serene beauty of the area. It’s an unforgettable experience for families, animal lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape in one of New Zealand’s most charming towns.

Be sure to add Shamarra Alpacas to your Akaroa itinerary—you won’t regret it!

19/11/2024

Nestled in the heart of an extinct volcano, French Peak Vineyard is the oldest on the Peninsula, with a rich winemaking legacy dating back to 1989. Just 700 meters from the sea, this unique vineyard enjoys cool maritime breezes and long, sunny days – perfect for producing exceptional wines.

🌱 Organic & Biodynamic Practices
Since 2016, French Peak has followed organic and biodynamic methods and is currently working toward BioGro certification to ensure the organic integrity of every bottle.

🍷 Award-Winning, Limited-Edition Wines
French Peak’s small-batch Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Rosé are highly sought-after, with each vintage often selling out.

🌄 Unique accommodation experience
Barn
Spacious and modern, the Barn sleeps four and features a lounge, dining area, and a modern shower room with a toilet. Amenities include a fridge, microwave, heating, Wi-Fi, utensils, and essentials for a comfortable stay. On fine days, enjoy outdoor dining and a barbecue area.

Wagon
A unique, modern, and spacious retreat, the Wagon offers indoor and outdoor seating, a shower, heating, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor bath with stunning views of the sea, hills, and the vineyard — perfect for enjoying award-winning wine under the stars.

Book a tasting today and experience the beauty of French Peak!

10/11/2024

Looking for a romantic, private escape in Akaroa? Look no further than Heights and their new Takahe apartment. Cosy, comforting and with views of the harbour - the perfect base camp to explore the area or have a weekend staycation.

09/11/2024

Experience a seasonal one-hour guided tour of the lavender fields at Akaroa Lavender from late November to mid-February. The story of their lavender farm is shared as you walk amongst 5,000 plus lavender plants.

The opportunity to purchase lavender products is available, as is the chance to enjoy their famous Lavender Lemonade. At the end of the tour, you are free to wander through the lavender fields and on a short track to a picnic area amongst the forest. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet.

The income from farm tours goes directly back into their conservation and regeneration programme.

Booking is essential, no walk-ins are accepted.

08/11/2024

Discover the Inside Out House & Garden Tour of Akaroa and the Bays 23rd & 24th November!

Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to discover some of the most beautiful and unique properties on Banks Peninsula with all their wonderful character, situated in stunning locations. This year it’s bigger than ever with a fabulous range of 16 properties, some never open to the public before. The tour takes place over two days allowing you to explore at your own pace on a flexible self-drive programme.

Inside Out 2024 features the captivating beauty of Fishermans Bay Garden, nestled along the rugged coastline. It features more than 100 hectares of protected native bush, winding paths, and a landscape that blends New Zealand’s unique native plants with exotic species, creating a garden like no other.
Stroll through vibrant flower borders, shaded fern valleys, and serene herb gardens as you immerse yourself in the tranquil, year-round charm of Fishermans Bay. This is your chance to enjoy the garden at its seasonal peak, surrounded by the sights and scents of late spring blooms.

Event Details:
📅 Date: Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th November, 10 AM - 5 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $55 for an unforgettable two day event
🚌 Free shuttle service in Le Bons Bay (from Le Bons Bay Church area to the Dawbers Road properties)

Plan a weekend in Akaroa and take time to enjoy local cafés, shops, and accommodations while you soak up the breathtaking beauty of the Inside Out Garden Tour.

Book now through this link (http://bit.ly/4fhizdz) and be part of this not-to-be-missed event! Tag a friend below you want to explore with!

🎥 credit to Jill from

07/11/2024

Just a short 75km drive from Christchurch, your adventure begins with a scenic journey through the charming township of Little River, the gateway to Banks Peninsula. Known for its vibrant community of artists, farmers, and writers, this quirky village invites you to explore the famous Little River Café & Gallery.

Continue your drive to the hilltop for breathtaking panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour and choose your route—either the direct SH75 to Akaroa or the unforgettable 'Tourist Drive' around the rim of the extinct volcano for spectacular vistas.
Along the way, indulge in local delights like wines from the region's vineyards or artisanal cheeses from Barry's Bay, made from fresh milk from grass-fed cows.

04/11/2024

Summer is just around the corner, and there is so much adventure to be had in Akaroa and The Bays.

If you're looking for help to craft your dream itinerary, follow along Akaroa and the Bays for our favourite places, eateries, accommodation, experiences and tips and tricks for the area!

03/11/2024

Nestled in the heart of Akaroa village and only a block from the beach, A La Villa offers a unique boutique experience with self-contained accommodation that’s perfect for any occasion. With five luxurious en-suite bedrooms, a spacious, fully-equipped kitchen, and large dining and lounge areas, it’s designed to make family gatherings and group stays unforgettable.

The sunny patio and private garden add a touch of charm, creating a sought-after spot for mini-conferences or special events. Discover the perfect blend of comfort, style, and location at A La Villa!

31/10/2024

Founded in 1872 by Portuguese immigrant Antonio Rodriguez, the Madeira Hotel preserves Akaroa’s colonial charm at its heart. This lively spot offers a contemporary gastro pub with a dining room, bar, and sunlit beer garden, along with comfortable, affordable accommodations perfect for backpackers and tradies. Guests can savor the chef’s signature lamb rump, classic steak and burgers, or locally sourced bangers & mash and steamed mussels. The Madeira is also Akaroa’s late-night hub, featuring live music and a vibrant nightlife—all within one historic setting!"

26/10/2024

Whether you love camping under the stars with family or would rather snuggle up in a cozy cabin at night, Akaroa Top 10 Holiday Park has you covered this spring! Kick back and unwind in the beautiful surroundings while enjoying all the fun activities the park has to offer. It's the perfect spot to relax, recharge, and create some unforgettable memories. Come see for yourself and enjoy the best of both worlds in this amazing setting!

Akaroa and the Bays