Akaroa is a small settlement roughly 1hr 30mins from Christchurch CBD, with a rich French history. Opportunities to explore the township, cruise the harbour or enjoy the local delicacies, around every corner. Nestled in Banks Peninsula, Akaroa was settled by the French whalers in 1840, leaving their mark on this small harbour side village, their culture, cuisine and legacy remain.
90mins from Christchurch, Akaroa offers a bounty of experiences to be enjoyed. Firstly, the road travels through the flat Canterbury Plains, heading south. The early part of the drive is straight and open, passing through farmland, small townships like Tai Tapu, and views of wide paddocks, braided rivers, and distant hills.
As you reach Little River, the scenery becomes greener and more enclosed. This small settlement is a natural pause point, known for its art gallery and local crafts, café and historic railway station and scenic wetlands and birdlife.
Beyond Little River, the road changes character as you head into Banks Peninsula. The road winds upward into the volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula. Reaching the top, you join the Summit Road, which offers extraordinary views down to Akaroa Harbour, a flooded volcanic crater.
Enjoy a short stop here to take photos, stretch your legs and take in the scenery of the harbour from above.
Descend into Akaroa, as you drop toward sea level, the scenery softens, Glimpses of turquoise harbour water through the trees, green rolling hills and cattle and sheep farms.
The whole journey has a peaceful, rural feel, both dramatic and gentle, mixing volcanic landscapes with calm coastal waters.
In the 1830s and 1840s, Akaroa Harbour was previously an active base for shore-based whaling, mainly targeting southern right whales and humpbacks as they migrated along the coast. European, American, and Australian whaling crews operated from small stations around the harbour, working with local Māori, especially Ngāi Tahu, who traded food, labour, and knowledge.
A key site was the Peraki Bay whaling station, established in 1836, one of the earliest and most productive on the Banks Peninsula. Whalers rendered blubber into oil in large try-pots on shore, shipping the barrels to Sydney and beyond. The work was tough and seasonal, and small communities grew around the stations with a mix of Māori and European residents.
By the late 1840s, whale numbers had sharply declined, making the industry largely unviable. As whaling collapsed, Akaroa shifted toward farming and later became known for its French colonial heritage and tourism, but traces of the whaling era remain in local place names, artefacts, and historical records.
From the moment you drive over the summit road, the French flair is evident. Street names, churches and architecture all boast French qualities. A short stroll down the main boulevard showcases cafes, restaurants and local bakeries, similarly to a quaint town in France.
Cuisine in Akaroa is heavily influenced by the French culture, however also showcases local beverages, cheeses and delectables. Akaroa’s cuisine is shaped by its coastal setting, fresh local produce, and its subtle French heritage.
Seafood, because Akaroa sits on a sheltered harbour, seafood is central:
Akaroa salmon (locally farmed and highly regarded).
Fresh blue cod, crayfish, and mussels.
Seasonal fish and harbour-inspired dishes.
French Influence, likewise, Akaroa’s French roots show up in:
Bakeries with croissants, pastries, and baguettes.
Menus featuring French-style sauces, pâtés, and desserts.
A general emphasis on good bread, coffee, and simple, elegant flavours.
Local Produce, The surrounding Banks Peninsula farms supply:
Artisan products from small local producers.
Cheeses, lamb, honey, herbs, and fresh vegetables.
From all of this, you will see why we think Akaroa is a must-visit place when in Christchurch. Take a break and let us host you for a private and memorable Akaroa Day Tour. with us at Alpine Luxury Tours Christchurch. All our tours include personal pick-up and welcome at the door of your accommodation.
