Akaroa Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Akaroa which includes mountains
Akaroa
Akaroa featuring a house
Akaroa featuring swimming and general coastal views as well as a large group of people
Akaroa which includes tranquil scenes

A slice of paradise nestled in an ancient volcanic crater, Akaroa is a treasure trove of attractions.

The rarest of Akaroa's residents are the cute Hector’s dolphins who call the waters of this natural harbour home. Say “kia ora” to them while taking a peek at the magical coves, caves and coastline on an unforgettable cruise or kayak. Back on dry land step inside the town’s heritage-listed buildings, from the days of French and British settlement, to find boutiques and cafés. Beyond the town there are dairy farms, wineries and the winding coastal walk of the Banks Track.

Akaroa Criterion Motel

Akaroa Criterion Motel

4.5 out of 5
75 Rue Jolie, Akaroa
The price is AU$138 per night from 22 July to 23 July
AU$138
22 July - 23 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star eco-certified motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (573 reviews)
"Lovely spacious room with great seaviews. Friendly helpful staff, and a very civilised 11am check out. We'll be back!"

Reviewed on 1 Jul. 2025

Akaroa Criterion Motel
Tresori Motor Lodge

Tresori Motor Lodge

4.5 out of 5
Cnr Rue Jolie & Church St, Akaroa
The price is AU$146 per night from 21 July to 22 July
AU$146
21 July - 22 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (333 reviews)
"Great customer service on arrival... nice clean room but mould on bathroom window (not a lot) needs to be removed, Room 10... but that wouldnt stop me recommending staying here.."

Reviewed on 12 May 2025

Tresori Motor Lodge
Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa Village Inn

3 out of 5
81 Beach Road, Akaroa, Canterbury
The price is AU$137 per night from 20 July to 21 July
AU$137
20 July - 21 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (115 reviews)
"Great place, great location"

Reviewed on 9 Jul. 2025

Akaroa Village Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa Village Inn

3 out of 5
81 Beach Road, Akaroa, Canterbury
Stay at this 3-star beach apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (115 reviews)
"Great place, great location"

Reviewed on 9 Jul. 2025

Akaroa Village Inn
SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups

SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups

Akaroa
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and a garden. Popular attractions Giant's House and Artisans ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (80 reviews)
Good for families
"Large family home,great toys for kids and pool table a bonus. Very good communication and clear instructions on how to enter property. A narrow and steep road up to house limits ability to walk to town with small children."

Reviewed on 25 Apr. 2025

SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups
Million Dollar View - Takamatua Holiday Home

Million Dollar View - Takamatua Holiday Home

Akaroa
Stay at this vacation home in Akaroa. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions St Patrick's Catholic Church and Artisans Gallery are ...
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
Weekend away
"Quiet relaxing spot. Beautiful views"

Reviewed on 25 Feb. 2025

Million Dollar View - Takamatua Holiday Home
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Reviews of Akaroa

4.7
Top destination
5 - Excellent
35
5 - Excellent 78%
4 - Good
6
4 - Good 13%
3 - Okay
4
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The water was smooth, calm, and beautifully reflective in the evening

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Really enjoyed harbour cruise

5/5 - Excellent

Jenny

Akaroa is a must see if you visit NZ's South Island. The views are amazing. Take a drive up Lighthouse road. The vistas are spectacular!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

was particularly looking for a kiwi christmas tree decoration- only one shop had something remote like the kiwi bird - thought shops would have more Christmas decorations. A true French bakery?? The smoked salmon shop was closed

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Can't wait to return. We had a wonderful trip on lake to see the amazing dolphins and other wildlife on the rocks around the lake leading out to the sea. Loved seeing the sheep grazing on the green hills too and the bird calls. Nature at its best

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The most stunning scenery. Well worth a visit

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