The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Akaroa, South Island

February 15, 2022 Madelene Haan

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
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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 Seal Colony Safari

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92%
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5.0 based on 59 reviews

Akaroa Seal Colony Safari

A unique journey from the charming shoreline village of Akaroa, up over the rim of an extinct volcano, past spectacular farmland and ocean views, and down eastern slopes to the Pacific Ocean. There, at the foot of one-hundred-metre cliffs, we will encounter an adorable colony of New Zealand Fur Seals, swimming and sun bathing amongst 8-million-year-old volcanic deposits.

3. Akaroa Farm Tours

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5.0 based on 203 reviews

Akaroa Farm Tours

Don’t be misled that you are about to embark on merely a simple farm tour. A visit to this 5th, 6th and now 7th generation family, descendants of the earliest French settlers on Banks Peninsula, is thought provoking and entertaining whilst it educates you on how farming has developed from 1837 to the present day.

4. Coast up Close

Excellent
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5.0 based on 291 reviews

Coast up Close

Experience the fantastic coastline around Akaroa in a spacious and comfortable Kauri launch. Local skipper, Tony, takes small groups to view the amazing wildlife,including penguins,dolphins, fur seals, and spectacular rock formations and sea caves.Terrific photo opportunities!

5. Akaroa Sailing Cruises

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5.0 based on 472 reviews

Akaroa Sailing Cruises

Akaroa Sailing Cruises provides a real sailing experience and wildlife eco cruise. We are environmentally friendly with extremely low carbon footprint. Sail on our 1946 designed classic yacht. Designed to win the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. We offer two cruises daily: a Morning cruise boarding at 10:15am, departing at 10:30, returning at 1pm, and an Afternoon cruise boarding at 1:15pm, departing 1:30 and returning at 4pm.

6. Akaroa Dolphins

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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.

7. Ecoseaker

Excellent
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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.

8. Banks Track

Excellent
85%
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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.

9. Akaroa Ebike Safaris

Excellent
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5.0 based on 76 reviews

Akaroa Ebike Safaris

Guided Electric Bike tours in Akaroa and surrounding bays.Local knowledgeable guides, brand new Scott Performance mountain Ebikes.

10. Akaroa Guided Kayak Safari

Excellent
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5.0 based on 616 reviews

Akaroa Guided Kayak Safari

Adventurers get set... it's time to reach for the stars, slap on your life jacket, throw on some sunscreen and rekindle that pioneering spirit. We have a wicked summer deal to get you out on the water and up close with Nature & Wildlife - it's time to go sea kayaking in Akaroa & experience that 100% pure NZ adventure you have been waiting for!Sea kayak in our amazing marine reserve, take in our breathtaking Volcanic basin vistas, and soak up our French village by the sea. Akaroa, only 80 minuets from Christchurch, New Zealand, is where we are based.Your trip includes a remote beach where you can relax or swim, enjoy refreshments & explore remote bays & inlets. We make it easy for you to experience one of our famous safaris as no experience is needed, just a sense of adventure and basic level of fitness and co-ordination. Our safaris have been voted number 1 shore excursion activity on the NZ cruise loop!

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