Rating:
Weather:
Ideal duration: 3-7 days
Best Time: December to March Read More
Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question
Akaroa, a town on South Island, is one of the most historic and bi-cultural places to visit in New Zealand and it is only a short drive away from Christchurch. It is the only town in New Zealand that holds a touch of France as it was once a French settlement in the 1840s. It is one of Canterbury's oldest towns. Beautiful sceneries, cultural potpourri and harbours that were volcanic craters, paint an unforgettable landscape of Akaroa and make it one of the most unique places to visit in New Zealand.
The French culture here is predominant in the street names namely Fleur Lane and Rue De Malmanche. Visitors flock here during the dry months from December to March which offers them optimal beach experiences along with a range of activities. It is located on the Banks Peninsula, where South Island's most beautiful spots are located. The harbour with the best coastal views with the looming hills from the peninsula surrounding the town gives visitors a picture-perfect town experience.
Akaroa is most famous for its olive oil, herbs, cheese and wine, reflecting the French flair the town illuminates. With the increasing number of foreigners exploring the peninsula Banks, Akaroa is leading its path to becoming a thriving hub for marine life in New Zealand.
This town is primarily known for its history with the French and British. Akaroa was the first town to experience French Settlement in the 1800s and was founded in August 1840. The growing French interest in New Zealand is said to have motivated the British to annex this country. Unfortunately, by the time the French had settled in, the Waitangi Treaty between the Maori chiefs and British crown had been signed officially.
Nevertheless, the French were still able to make their way into this town, and till date, their culture is clear in the kind of food and street names this place has. Along with that, the Maori culture is also very evident in Akaroa considering there is a Maori settlement called Onuku just a few kilometres away from this town.
Akaroa has amazing seaside restaurants for visitors enjoy. Right from bakeries and breweries to restaurants, bistros and bars. A few good places to eat in Akaroa are: Ma Maison Restaurant and Bar is one of the best places with a beautiful sea view. Ratatouille French Restaurant offers one of the best traditional French delicacies with authentic products and methods of cooking. Ronas is the perfect place for casual dining long with good quality wine and cheese!
The Coffee Stop offer French-style baguettes, sandwiches, shakes, soft drinks and muffins. Another famous bakery is Sweet As Bakery which is famous for its Ciabatta, Baguettes, French Tarts, Pastries, muffins, pies, etc. Bach is an ideal joint for a heavy breakfast or brunch. This place offers a good range of pizzas, burgers, cakes and sandwiches.
La Thai offers some authentic Thai food along with a range of non-alcoholic beverages, beers and wines. Other options include Hours of the Local Eateries, French Farm Winery, Akora Fish and Chips, Little Bistro, Bully Hayes and The Wharf.
The best time to visit Akaroa is from December to March, which is the summer season in New Zealand. During this time, cool weather enables an enjoyable experience for warm weather travellers. June, July and August are too humid for travellers to have a good time here.
It should be noted, however, that during March, July and June, the regular overflow of tourists may lead to an increase in hotel and flight prices. As opposed to that, visiting in November or December may benefit visitors not only because of the cool and dry weather (it usually rains only 3-5 times a month), but also because they may get better deals on flights and hotels.
Compare package quotes from top travel agents
Compare upto 3 quotes for free