New Zealand · SHORE EXCURSIONS IN AKAROA
Every trip has one free day too few. These 8 shore excursions in Akaroa justify the slot, priced and timed so you can decide in minutes and get back to the fun part.
Review of Akaroa’s Banks Peninsula and Christchurch tour, with scenic drives, earthquake history, gardens, timing, costs, and practical booking advice.
“This was a great trip. Beautiful scenery and very interesting. Excellent and informative commentary by our driver Bruce.”
Paddle Akaroa’s volcanic harbor with a small guided group, scenic rock formations, and a chance to spot Hector’s dolphins, seals, and penguins.
“Our kayaking tour of Akaroa was awesome. We were able to meet the guides after a short walk from our cruise ship. Two guides accompanied the small group and provided excellent safety and paddling instruction. During the trip, which mostly followed the shore, they gave interesting information about the wildlife, flora and geology of the area. The paddling was easy and very enjoyable. We're so pleased that we chose this excursion in Akaroa.”
Review of Akaroa’s Christchurch and Antarctic Centre shore excursion, with Banks Peninsula scenery, penguins, Hagglund rides, costs, and timing tips.
“Particularly enjoyed the Antarctic experience which, at first, we were not keen to see but it was the highlight of the day. Driver/Guide was knowledgeable and amusing.”
Combine Christchurch sights, Banks Peninsula scenery, and a thrilling Waimakariri River jet-boat ride on this Akaroa cruise excursion.
“The driver that picked us up and took us to the first museum was excellent and very good about talking on the history of the area. Could have used a bit longer at the first stop, by the time you found the restroom and worked your way in and out of the museum you didn't get to see a lot. The next driver who took over from the museum through Christchurch was not over enthusiastic about the job - here is an empty lot, this is a piece of art that was a waste of money - that sort of thing - although we laughed and still talk about it…”
Ride through Banks Peninsula to Christchurch, visit the Botanic Gardens and Willowbank, and see New Zealand’s elusive kiwi on a six-hour shore tour.
“This was a very informative and interesting tour. There was a bit of confusion as to which bus was going where at Akaroa but all sorted out at The Museum first stop. The tour around Christchurch was very informative. The Willowbank Wildlife Reserve was well worth a visit and as our group of 5 was the only group going here we had a guide from The Reserve just for us. Our guide was excellent. Our return trip to Akaroa was eventful when we had a double tyre blowout. We were about 20 minutes from Akaroa at this time so our driver phoned another driver in Akaroa and arranged for him…”
Explore Akaroa Harbour, Summit Road, Barry’s Bay cheese, and the remarkable Giants House on a well-priced half-day shore tour.
“Great interesting tour, but the real shock was the Giants House. Wonderful art and garden interspersed. Witty and colourful. Highly recommend”
See Banks Peninsula, Christchurch, and Akaroa’s Giant’s House on a six-hour shore trip with scenic drives, city stops, and port pickup.
“Had a great day. Janet was informative and got us around easily. It was lovely to see Christchurch and all they are rebuilding after the earthquake. Would like to have had more time but the joys of being on a cruise ship limit this. EspeciaRead more”
Tour Akaroa Harbour, sample Barry’s Bay cheese, watch sheepdogs and shearing, and enjoy tea and scones on a family farm.
“Initially our guide made several anti-American comments which disturbed us quite a bit. After awhile he must have picked up on the fact that we were insulted because he stopped the slurs.”
Pick an island, a lake or a cave.
