What to do in Akaroa

Activities, attractions and tours

Akaroa showing mountains
Akaroa showing mountains
Akaroa which includes a river or creek, tranquil scenes and a sunset
Akaroa featuring a house
Akaroa which includes general coastal views and swimming as well as a large group of people
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Most fun & popular experiences in Akaroa

Tours & day trips

See all 19 activities
Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 79 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿2,466 per adult
Akaroa: Dolphin Nature CruiseOpens in new tab

History & culture

See all 6 activities
Akaroa: Pohatu Penguins Scenic Nature 2-Hour or 4-Hour Tour

Akaroa: Pohatu Penguins Scenic Nature 2-Hour or 4-Hour Tour

Activity duration is 2 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 61 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿1,802 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 3 activities
Lava Loop- Guided electric mountain bike tour in Akaroa

Lava Loop- Guided electric mountain bike tour in Akaroa

Activity duration is 3 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Price is ฿3,319 per adult
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What to do in Akaroa

Popular places to visit

Akaroa Wharf which includes a coastal town and general coastal views

Akaroa Wharf

At this pretty quayside join wildlife-spotting excursions around the Banks Peninsula and enjoy waterfront walks while admiring magnificent scenery.

Akaroa Wharf
Akaroa which includes a bay or harbour, a lighthouse and a pebble beach

Akaroa Lighthouse

For a glimpse of the history of the Banks Peninsula and an hour or two in nature, walk or ride to this historic wooden lighthouse and take in the scenic harbor views.

Akaroa Lighthouse
Akaroa Museum

Akaroa Museum

Delve into the past in this fascinating little local museum with its three heritage buildings on the South Island’s Banks Peninsula.

Akaroa Museum

Banks Peninsula Track

You can take time to visit Banks Peninsula Track during your travels to Long Bay. Wander the waterfront in this relaxing area.

Banks Peninsula Track

Linton The Giant House

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Linton The Giant House during your trip to Akaroa. Wander the waterfront and beaches in the area.

Linton The Giant House

St Patrick's Catholic Church

St Patrick's Catholic Church is just one of the places to see in Akaroa, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the waterfront and beaches in the area.

St Patrick's Catholic Church

Artisans Gallery

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Artisans Gallery in Akaroa. Wander the waterfront and beaches in the area.

Artisans Gallery

Fishermans Bay Garden

Explore the great outdoors at Fishermans Bay Garden, a lovely green space in Long Bay. Wander the waterfront in this relaxing area.

Fishermans Bay Garden

Britomart Monument

Learn about the local history of Akaroa when you spend time at Britomart Monument. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Britomart Monument

Day trip destinations from Akaroa

The Summit Road around the Banks Peninsula is so scenic and the views are spectacular, even if the roads are a bit gnarly and not for the faint of heart

Duvauchelle

Frequently asked questions

Is Akaroa worth visiting?
Akaroa has a unique mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or traditional cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Akaroa?
Pohatu Penguin Habitat and Akaroa Museum are two excellent places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Akaroa while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Akaroa?
Pohatu Penguin Habitat is one of the top tourist attractions in Akaroa and deserves a spot on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Akaroa?
Three days will be enough time to tick off many city attractions, like Pohatu Penguin Habitat, Akaroa Museum and Akaroa Lighthouse. The average stay in Akaroa is two days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Christchurch isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Akaroa with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Akaroa with kids.

What to do in Akaroa for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Akaroa, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Tree Crop Farm.
Are there free things to do in Akaroa?
From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Akaroa. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Akaroa Lighthouse is a must for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing adventures.