Akaroa with optional dolphin cruise (Small Group Tour)
Description
On this incredibly scenic small group tour, visit Akaroa and explore the Banks Peninsula with one of our friendly and knowledgeable local guides. Visit some of the small settlements around Lyttelton Harbour and Akaroa Harbour. Learn about fascinating local history, how an enormous extinct volcano shaped this rugged landscape and how the landscape continues to shape the people who live here. In Akaroa, you’ll either visit the whimsical Giant’s House—filled with vibrant mosaic sculptures—or enjoy a harbour cruise, where you may spot Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds. (Please note: The harbour cruise option is subject to availability and replaces the visit to the Giant’s House.) In town, there are opportunities to try the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or admire the local artworks. For those who are more active, a few bush and coastal walks are available along the way. A day trip that can be either busy and active or laid-back and relaxing.
Tour Options
Itinerary
From Christchurch, your day begins with a scenic drive to Birdlings Flat Beach, where you'll enjoy morning tea on this rugged coastal beach. A 50-minute drive brings us to Akaroa.
Once in Akaroa, you can visit The Giant’s House, a mesmerising mosaic sculpture garden, or embark on a thrilling dolphin and wildlife cruise in the harbour. Following one of these unforgettable experiences, take time to savour a café lunch and explore the shops, all while soaking in the beauty of this idyllic harbour town. A 40-minute drive brings you to the quaint village of Little River.
A tiny township nestled between steep hillside farmland and native bush. The food, art, and ice cream that are sold here are favourites with Christchurch locals visiting Akaroa. You will have some free time here to admire the local artworks, sample the ice cream or check out the historic railway station. A 20-minute drive brings us to Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve.
Afternoon tea is served before exploring the beautiful native bush and admiring the massive Mati (New Zealand White Pine) Trees. An easy 10-minute loop track is an option for those who would like to stretch their legs. A 30-minute drive brings you to a stunning photo stop near Christchurch.
Enjoy the panoramic views of Lyttelton Harbour before enjoying the scenic roads back to Christchurch. A 30-minute drive will take you back to Christchurch.
You will be taken back to your accommodation or back to your meeting location in Christchurch at the end of your tour.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
You will be met by a guide wearing our company's branded uniform in a white branded car or minivan.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We can accommodate dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free etc.
Reviews(4)
We had the most perfect, relaxing day out with Adventure by Nature! Being in a small group made the experience feel exclusive, and our guide, Huge, was incredibly friendly, passionate, and insightful. The tour vehicle was great, and Huge didn't just stick rigidly to a set itinerary—he tailored the day completely around the interests of the guests and showed us so many other amazing options we could do. It was an absolute highlight of our trip. Highly recommend!
Thank you for posting this wonderful review. I have passed on your kind words to your guide ;-)
Wonderful, relaxed day traveling to Akaroa with several stops along the way. Our guide, Lachie (rhymes with hockey) was calm, knowledgeable, and friendly. We loved the morning tea stop. He shared information about the Māori and easily fielded our general geopolitical questions. Great viewpoints.
Thanks for posting this nice review. I'm so pleased that you enjoyed your trip to Akaroa with Lachie
Allan, our guide, was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. He showed us hidden gems along the way and shared fun facts about the history of the place. The homemade cookies were such a thoughtful touch and made us feel very welcome. Definitely recommend!
Thanks for taking the time to post a review. Much appreciated!
Alan was a fantastic guide on our day trip to Akaroa. He was very knowledgeable about the area and answered any questions we had and accommodated any little detours we wanted to make. The views were spectacular. He also provided a tasty lunch and snacks. Highly recommended.
Thanks for making time to post such a great review. I'm glad you had a good time visiting Akaroa.
