About Akaroa

Just 75 kilometres from the city of Christchurch, New Zealand, Akaroa is an historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano.

Explore the village with its colonial architecture, craft stores, and cafés. Relax in the sun at French Bay, or find a secluded beach of your own in one of the neighbouring bays. Go cruising on the beautiful Akaroa harbour, you can choose from a variety of cruises including sailing around the harbour. View the stunning wildife including the Hectors dolphins. Enjoy Akaroa and the harbour for the week, your weekend, or just one day there's an Akaroa Escape to suit your mood.

Often regarded as the Riviera of Christchurch for its bays and cobalt blue waters, Akaroa is a major vacation and weekend retreat. There is broad range for all budgets and it is an ideal destination for a romantic weekend or short break away from Christchurch. There is potential to capture new market segments and capitalise on Akaroa's French history and heritage with the Akaroa French Fest. Bastille Day and also the annual bike race from Christchurch to Akaroa “Le Race” where Akaroa is the finishing line.