Akaroa Travel Guide
Akaroa accommodation, Akaroa activities and attractions, Akaroa maps, transportation to and around Akaroa - the ALL NEW Jasons Akaroa Destination Travel Guide is your complete visitor guide for Akaroa.
Southeast of
Christchurch on the rolling hills of
Banks Peninsula, the quaint harbourside township of Akaroa is
Canterbury's oldest village and New Zealand's only French settlement. Akaroa was established in 1838 by French whaler, Captain Jean Langlois, and still enjoys a distinct French charm. The architecture, pavement cafes and French street names all bear testimony to its founding fathers. Akaroa's main street, Rue Lavaud, is the heart of the village.
Akaroa's beautiful harbour is home to some rare native
wildlife including Hector's dolphins, little blue penguins and fur seals. Wildlife cruises are a great way to view the marinelife, and you can even swim with the dolphins when conditions allow. Out on the peninsula are the remains of a whaling station, sawmill and historic Maori pa sites, or head into the surrounding countryside and enjoy the wineries, mountainbiking, horse trekking, golf and scenic walking trails.
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Geographic Location
Akaroa is located on the eastern shoreline of Akaroa harbour on Banks Peninsula. Banks Peninsula is about half-way down the east coast of the South Island.
Population
600
Climate
Akaroa has a sub-mediterranean climate. Its summer average temperature ranges from 16-22°C. The average daily winter temperature ranges from 2 to 13°C.