Discover the history and heritage of Banks Peninsula and the French township of Akaroa, Canterbury’s oldest town. Soak up the atmosphere, history and discover the quaint delights of this Riviera of the South destination. Get to meet some unique wildlife on an Akaroa harbour cruise to see the Hector Dolphins and enjoy exploring rambling gardens. This tour starts and finishes in Christchurch. Group size 4-9 people.
Christchurch
9am
Suitable layered clothing, a light raincoat, light walking shoes, insect repellent, camera, small torch.
Make your own way to Christchurch, you will be collected approximately 9am to commence your tour.
Welcome to Christchurch morning tea with views over the city from the top of the port hills, where we will experience the Canterbury time tunnel look at the early history of Banks Peninsula. We will travel through regenerating natural areas of native tussock grasslands to Okains Bay on the eastern side of Banks Peninsula to see the extensive collection of Maori and Colonial artifacts. Stopping for a bite of lunch before we reach the French village of Akaroa for our three night’s stay.
Inclusions Today MT, L D. Accommodation in Akaroa
Enjoy a personally guided tour around the most renown historic buildings in Akaroa and hear some of the fabulous history, then enjoy some free time browsing stalls at the village market day or pop into the museum. Enjoy a café lunch with time to explore the quaint businesses and shops.
Inclusions Today B, L, D. Accommodation Akaroa Motel.
We set sail to see the abundant wildlife of Akaroa Harbour. Our vessel is a rigged ketch which uses both motor and sail for a unique cruise to see Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, yellow eyed penguins, petrels, mollymawks, gannets and terns, a special experience, returning to Akaroa for a special lunch and garden visit.
Inclusions Today B, L, D. Accommodation Akaroa Motel.
No visit to Akaroa is complete without a stop at the famous Giant’s house with its 6-star garden of significance statis, delight for the senses. An extraordinary and unique experience. Enjoy great views over Lakes Forsyth and Ellesmere and Kaitorete Spit, visit the renowned Barry’s Bay Cheese, to sample handmade cheese, before returning to the Heathcote Valley and a visit to Ferrymead Heritage Park, the replica Edwardian township celebrating the first pioneers,
Inclusions Today B, L
Just letting you know how much I enjoyed the trip. Company was good and enjoyed Randall tales of his travels.
