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EXPERIENCES
Explore activities, attractions and tickets for your family trip to Akaroa.
EXPERIENCES
At the core, we’re a family business with our management team being 6th & 7th generation Banks Peninsula locals. Alongside our family members, we have a passionate team who are committed to you having a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We keep our passenger groups small so that you have more room to move around the boat, and enjoy your cruise without overcrowding or missing dolphin sightings due to a shortage of viewing space. Our boat has a low-lying profile which means you get closer to the wildlife! When you board our boat you’ll be offered a complimentary drink. Choose from beer, award-winning local wine or non-alcoholic options. You’ll also enjoy our famous home-baked treats made from our family recipe and served to you by our delightful onboard crew. We are committed to the conservation of our harbour's environment and wildlife. After all, it’s the centre point of our business. *Check-in is 30 minutes prior to the departure, with boarding 15 minutes beforehand.
Cruise through the stunning Akaroa Harbour and encounter some of New Zealand’s most unique marine wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphin, NZ fur seals, penguins, and seabirds. Set aboard a spacious, modern catamaran with large viewing decks and indoor seating, this award-winning nature cruise offers comfort, panoramic views, and expert commentary from your knowledgeable skipper. You’ll explore an ancient volcanic crater, marvel at towering 500-foot sea cliffs and vibrant rock formations. Learn about local conservation efforts and Akaroa’s rich Māori and European history. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a free postcard. With guaranteed departures (weather permitting), it’s a must-do for nature and wildlife lovers and families alike. As New Zealand’s first eco-tourism operator, we’re proud to support the dolphin protection efforts alongside the Department of Conservation and the NZ Whale & Dolphin Trust.
Alpacas Farm is an unparalleled opportunity to get up close and personal with alpacas, learn about this loving animal, and create some memories with friends and family in a stunning location. Note - guests must drive to the farm, or see operator website for transport providers.
City lights can make stargazing difficult; this guided night tour takes you to Akaroa Heritage Park for views of the Banks Peninsula night sky in a shared group of up to 10 travelers. Start with naked-eye viewing, binoculars, and questions for your guide before using two telescopes: a 10-inch Dobsonian for visual observations and a ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope for live astrophotography. Receive digital photos of nebulae and deep-sky objects instantly, plus a personalized photo under the night sky sent the next day. Coffee or tea and cozy blankets are provided as you look for planets, the Milky Way, nebulae, and distant galaxies. On a clear night, the range of objects to find is virtually unlimited, and no prior astronomy knowledge is required.
My true story | New Zealand’s History Do not miss out on this incredible New Zealand experience. Just look at the amazing 5 star reviews! Guests describe this tour as the “New Zealand’s best kept secret”, “the best thing to do in Akaroa”, “best tour in Canterbury.” 2-hour tours are available - contact Marie directly This tour is owned and operated by The 7th Generation descendant of the French settlers, expert trained historian and ecologist and natural born storyteller. Guests consistently report that the tour had a BIG impact on them, leaving them feeling connected to nature and inspired for the future. Expert guide Marie Haley, was a FINALIST at the 2024 New Zealand Tourism Awards for Tourism Business Excellence, a big deal for a one-woman operation. This tour will take you to all of Akaroa’s hidden gems - you will simply see no other tourists. This tour includes all the best things to do in Akaroa, that you could not access and understand without this expert guide.
See the sights of Christchurch when your ship is in Akaroa port, and explore the city on a comprehensive tour. Your Akaroa shore excursion also includes a trip through the beautiful Banks Peninsula and a visit to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Meet the elusive kiwi, New Zealand’s national bird, along with exotic visitors including deer, wallabies, otters, gibbons and lemurs.
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Content will be published after partner and terms validation.
Explore activity ideas →Content will be published after partner and terms validation.
Explore activity ideas →Content will be published after partner and terms validation.
Explore activity ideas →Content will be published after partner and terms validation.
Explore activity ideas →