This small village was where the French landed during the colonisation of New Zealand. Obviously the English took over the country but this small town has managed to retain its French history. The town is full or gorgeous French cottages, the streets are all named in French and most of the businesses too. From the town pier, you can also jump aboard a cruise on the harbour. Akaroa Harbour is home to a population of New Zealand’s smallest dolphin, the endangered Hectors Dolphin and the cruises are the best way to see these friendly animals.
Swim with the Hectors Dolphin
Hectors Dolphin - The Smallest in the World
The Hector's dolphin is the smallest oceanic dolphin in the world with the female adult only reaching about 1.2 metres (4 foot) long and weighing approximately 47 kilograms ( 103 pounds), while the males are slightly smaller and weigh about 10 kilograms (22 pounds) less.
Take a scenic cruise exploring the beautiful, sheltered Akaroa harbour. You'll experience a rich variety of marine life including the unique and playful Hector's Dolphin and the rare Little Blue Penguin. The seascape is dominated by towering volcanic cliffs teeming with marine birdlife. If you wish, you have the opportunity to swim with these tiny rare dolphins - the only place you can swim with hectors in the world.
Tour French Akaroa
Banks Peninsula was formed following the violent eruptions of two volcanoes. A crater nurses the picturesque harbour of Akaroa with many smaller bays indenting the spectacular coastline. In 1840, French settlers arrived at Akaroa, To this day; Akaroa remains unique as the site of the only attempted settlement by the French in New Zealand. Many streets have French names, and there are descendants of the original French families still living in Akaroa. Take a scenic cruise exploring the beautiful, sheltered harbours. You'll experience a rich variety of marine life including the unique and playful Hector's Dolphin and the rare Little Blue Penguin. The seascape is dominated by towering volcanic cliffs teeming with marine birdlife. If you wish, you have the opportunity to swim with these tiny rare dolphins. This Riviera-style village has some wonderful colonial architecture, creative craft shops, intriguing galleries, delightful gardens, and excellent cafés, bars and restaurants.
Nature Cruise Akaroa
Depart the charming historic French township of Akaroa, aboard the large modern catamaran into the sweeping scenic splendour of Akaroa Harbour. Enjoy your skipper's fascinating commentary as you discover playful, rare New Zealand Hector's dolphins, fur seals, penguins and many other kinds of sea birds. Visit the startling volcanic formation of Cathedral Cave, and see everything from relics of the area's Maori and colonial past to a modern working salmon farm of today. Dolphins are sighted on 95% of our trips. Voted one of the top 101 things to do in New Zealand by local New Zealanders. You will enjoy complimentary tea/coffee is provided on board. Snacks and drinks are available to purchase on board including wine & beer. Optional photo packs available to purchase.
