6 Eco Tours in Akaroa That You Shouldn't Miss

August 19, 2021 Kandra Bartel

The French are known as the world’s most romantic people, so it makes sense that Akaroa—site of New Zealand’s first French settlement—is an ideal spot to set the scene for love. Hold hands with your paramour and stroll along the provincial harbor, where dolphins, penguins, and seals bob and chatter in the sparkling ice-blue water. First-class accommodations, quaint French bakeries and succulent restaurants are the perfect ingredients for a romantic getaway.
Restaurants in Akaroa

1. Pohatu Penguin Habitat

Excellent
90%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
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0%
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1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 639 reviews

Pohatu Penguin Habitat

Pohatu penguins is a family owned business that offers 4WD safaris trip to the Largest Little penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. Conservation based tours include: -Evening penguin tours -Scenic nature safaris (2 or 4 hours) -Sea-kayaking with seals and other wildlife -24 or 48 hour package including accommodation in the middle of the penguin colony

2. Akaroa Dolphins

Excellent
96%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
0%
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0%
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Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2,138 reviews

Akaroa Dolphins

Let our crew, including our dolphin spotting dogs, take you on a journey of discovery through the long history of Akaroa harbour and its inhabitants. Our low-lying luxurious, spacious boat ensures you have a closer encounter with the rare Hector’s dolphins. We also endeavour to give you the best possible viewing of our local New Zealand fur seals, penguins and seabirds. Along the way, you will get to see sea caves and other spectacular volcanic formations too. We offer a friendly and comfortable experience that includes complimentary drinks of local award-winning wine, beer or juice, as well as some delicious home baking. Our 100% locally owned and operated business is committed to raising awareness and protecting the marine environment. That is why a portion of your fare goes towards protecting our wildlife. To find out more about our conservation commits please visit our website. Please note, we do not swim with the dolphins.

3. Ecoseaker

Excellent
98%
Good
2%
Satisfactory
0%
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0%
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Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 610 reviews

Ecoseaker

Dolphin Swimming and Harbour Cruise Adventures. Small Professional Family Company 100% Locally Owned & Operated. Only 12 Guests On Each Tour. Personal Experience. Free Dolphin Swimming Photos.

4. Banks Track

Excellent
85%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 177 reviews

Banks Track

NZ’s original private walking track is an excellent eco-tourism experience, offering diverse wildlife, scenery and hospitality. Each accommodation reflects the character, history and individuality of the track families. Two self-guided options offer you the comfort of hot showers and small numbers, combined with the independence of the freedom walker. A Kiwi favourite.

5. Southern Wanderer Scenic Cruises

Excellent
96%
Good
2%
Satisfactory
0%
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0%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 46 reviews

Southern Wanderer Scenic Cruises

BOAT TRIPS THAT SEEM LIKE PRIVATE TOURS - Avoid the crowds - 8 passengers max. sharing an adventure and friendly, conversational commentary with our family crew. Southern Wanderer is comfortable, safe & fast, allowing us to get down the harbour quickly to spend more time with the spectacular coastline and the wildlife of the marine reserve - and beyond when conditions allow. Encounter the unique range of native flora & fauna, from palm trees to penguins. SCHEDULED SCENIC NATURE CRUISES - Join one of our cruises in Southern Wanderer, departing from Akaroa's main wharf at 9:30am - to make the most of photo opportunities with early-morning light, often in the calmest conditions of the day on an uncrowded harbour - and at 12:00 midday, to link with bus & shuttle services from Christchurch. We also offer affordable rates for PERSONALISED PRIVATE CHARTERS with flexible departure times & durations, for small groups (1-8) of family, friends or colleagues who would prefer a trip to themselves.

6. Black Cat Cruises

Excellent
77%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
2%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,433 reviews

Black Cat Cruises

We started our Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruises back in 1985 and are the original cruise operators so we know the harbour pretty well. Along the way we've been named as the supreme tourism award winner and also hold the Enviro gold award from Qualmark to recognise our dedication to the environment. Your nature cruise will be on the 'Black Cat', a large modern and stable vessel allowing great views of all the scenery and wildlife including dolphins, seals and penguins. If by some chance you do not see dolphins then we will provide a ticket to come again another day. This happens on average 2% of the time across the whole year. We look forward to meeting you and giving you the best stories from the Akaroa Harbour.

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