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Activities and Attractions in Akaroa, New Zealand

Akaroa, with its own beautiful bays and harbour and French and English history has an enormous range of activities to keep you busy for days. In Flea Bay you can take 4WD trips to the largest little penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. Akaroa waters are home to the rarest and smallest marine dolphin and all around you will find fantastic sea kayaking in spectacular surroundings. There are cruises, sail boats, cycle tours, mail runs, and an excellent range of walking tracks. Don't miss seeing the Hector's dolphins and other special wildlife on a harbour cruise. There is so much to see and do in Akaroa that you will need more than a day trip.

Akaroa Sailing Cruises

Akaroa Wildlife Sailing Cruise. Relive the golden era of sailing experience the timeless beauty of a large graceful CLASSIC…a style of yacht rarely seen nowadays! Hand-built, original condition & lovingly maintained with 9 coats of varnish. No engine noise, no diesel smell, no pollution to harm the unique endangered wildlife. Most often you’ll be surprised to HEAR dolphins & wildlife BEFORE you see them. Intimate humorous historical storytelling; no loudspeaker. Help sail or relax in the ‘Royal seats’.

Akaroa Sailing Cruises

Swimming with Dolphins - Akaroa

Operating between September through to the end of May. Akaroa Harbour is the only place on the entire planet where you can get up close and personal with NZ's playful Hector's dolphins. Depart on one of our safe and comfortable vessels. All year round an unforgettable adventure awaits you, where everything is provided for your pleasure. A separate price is available for dolphin watching only. Year round, face-to-face encounters with Hector's dolphins - the world's rarest. Everything is provided: wetsuits, snorkels, hot showers and hot chocolate.

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Swimming with Dolphins Akaroa

Akaroa's World Famous Mini Golf

Akaroa's worldly famous mini golf club, set amongst New Zealand native palms and gardens. Stream side setting. 18 holes to challenge all age groups and skill levels. Open from 10.30am until 4.30pm every weekend and school holidays and all cruise ship days. Groups welcome, tournaments organised. Yearly "Akaroa open" second Sunday of January every year. Lots of prizes and heaps of fun.

Akaroas World Famous Mini Golf

Alpaca Farm Tour Akaroa

Alpacas are beautiful and mysterious animals with a long and fascinating history. Frank and Anya, who own over 130 alpacas, will share this story and their experience with you. After an interactive presentation you will have the opportunity to handle alpacas and appreciate the unique qualities of their amazing ultra fine fleece. Walk an alpaca among our herd while these majestic animals graze with their young, then feed them by hand. The memorable views over Akaroa harbour are breathtaking. Afterwards, browse the excellent Alpaca Shop.

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Alpaca Farm Tour Akaroa

Banks Peninsula Track

The Banks Peninsula Track pioneered hut to hut walking over private land in NZ's and is still regarded as the finest private walking track in the country. Beginning in the historic seaside village of Akaroa, the 35km Track includes spectacular volcanic coastline, waterfalls, native bush, open pasture, and four delightful rocky or sandy beaches. Renowned for its charming accommodation, the Track is designed to provide a special and memorable experience for the intrepid explorer and holiday-maker alike. The same route can be covered in two or four days. Online booking available.

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Banks Peninsula Track

Barrys Bay Cheese

Originally one of nine dairies dotting the peninsula in the late 1800s, Barrys Bay Cheese is the last remaining factory. Today, we still use the traditional recipes brought to New Zealand by the early English settlers. We believe using fresh, local Bank Peninsula milk is the key to producing such consistent, beautiful cheese. Stop in and watch cheese making Monday through Thursday (Oct to May) and on non-make days a DVD is available. Enjoy complimentary samples and shop our assortment of local wines, craft beer and preserves available at our shop.

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Barrys Bay Cheese

Bicyclette eBiking Akaroa

Bicyclette E Biking Akaroa is an eBike hire and guided tour business. Hire our bikes, map provided or take guided tour option. The Southern Bay Guided Tour begins in the Wainui settlement and allows you to take in the stunning scenery of inner harbour, Akaroa the Southern Bays and the heads via the charming volcanic terrain of Banks Peninsula.

Bicyclette eBiking Akaroa

Call Jeeves Tours

Call Jeeves Tours specialise in bespoke (tailor-made) tours using a range of small luxury high class vehicles complete with driver/tour guide services. Our tours do not run to a restricted itinerary. Our friendly and flexible range of tour options are available at a number of New Zealand ports and are ideal for small or larger groups. Our vehicle and driver may be exclusively yours for the entire duration of your tour. Call Jeeves Tours are very experienced and established operators in providing private small group tours from the sea-side holiday resort village of Akaroa, and from the ports of both Lyttelton and Timaru over the summer cruise ship season.

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Call Jeeves Tours

Canterbury Leisure Tours

Canterbury Leisure Tours has over 20 years experience in offering high quality tours and activities to International Visitors. Our tours offer the top activities and attractions the region has to offer. All departure and return times from the cruise ship will ensure your brief visit to this most beautiful region of New Zealand is thoroughly enjoyable. For a detailed list of our cruise tours go to our web site.

Canterbury Leisure Tours

Canterbury Trails

Specialising in small group guided tours for over 19 years Canterbury Trails offers a day trip to Akaroa from Christchurch. We also offer cruise ship tours from Akaroa wharf which visit a number of Canterbury wineries, Christchurch city sights and scenic drive over Banks Peninsula. Full details of all our tours can be found on our web site. We can also put together a private tour for you ensuring that you get the most from your visit to Banks Peninsula.

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Canterbury Trails

Discovery Travel Tours

Discovery Travel is a top Trip Advisor rated tour company. We operate affordable private fully-guided tours from Akaroa, enabling you to experience the beauty, history and scenery that make our region unique. Let us create an itinerary with just you in mind. We have an extensive selection of options available for you to experience in Christchurch - the International Antarctic Centre; New Zealand's national icon, 'The Kiwi' at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve; delicious wine and cheese tasting; Airforce Museum; farm tours; punting on the Avon River; Botanic Gardens and the Canterbury Museum; jet boating and more. We have a range of modern fully air-conditioned vehicles available and we can cater for any number of people.

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Discovery Travel Tours

ecoSEAker's Harbour Adventure Cruise

A 2 hour tour experiencing all of the high points Akaroa Harbour has to offer. Things you are likely to see, 1000 foot cliffs, Sea Arches, Amazing Volcanic Formations, Caves, Marine Farms, White Flippered Blue Penguins, Albatross and other seabirds, Akaroa Marine Reserve, Nikau Palm Gully and occasional Blowholes. Hear about the Volcanic and Maori history. Steve the owner & captain is a 5th generation local who knows the secrets of Akaroa Harbour. The boat is a fun, fast, adventurous 12.5 meter Rayglass Protector (an ex America’s Cup Chase boat and Coastguard Marine Rescue vessel with 600HP four stroke outboards).

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ecoSEAkers Harbour Adventure Cruise

ecoSEAker Swimming with Dolphins Akaroa

Come and join us on one of our small friendly personal tours and experience the magic of your dolphin swim with an intimate group of only 12 swimmers in the water per trip, watching spaces also available. And swim with or view the world's rarest and smallest ocean going dolphin - The Hectors (New Zealand) Dolphin. We are a small local family business and offer longer trips to maximise your experience and your value for money. 90.5% success rate. We provide warm wetsuits, mask & snorkel, hot chocolate & biscuits. Akaroa’s #1 Dolphin Swim on Tripadvisor. YOU FIND US WE FIND THEM. Department of Conservation Approved.

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ecoSEAker Swimming with Dolphins Akaroa

E S Tours

Join Dermot (or local guide Nick) on a small, personal, friendly tour. E S Tours is highly rated on Trip Advisor (Bravo Award 2016....26/26 5* reviews)... owner/operator with over 20 years experience. Christchurch/Akaroa/Banks Peninsula Tour (6 hours) is our cruise ship specialty with scenery (volcanic rim, Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour Summit Road in good weather). Detailed commentary on volcanoes, local/NZ history and earthquakes (Christchurch rebuild tour included). Our Ford Transit Minibus has air con. and a clear PA.

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E S Tours v2

French Peak Wines

In a bay on the Western Shores of Akaroa Harbour, lies the scenic village of French Farm, where the original French Settlers first planted their vines. It is here that you will find our beautiful boutique vineyard, owned by Fraser Henderson and Elise Cailleau, leased by Renan Cataliotti. The unique terroir of the Banks Peninsula is reflected in the distinctive flavour of our wines, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and a Provencal style Rosé.

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French Peak Wines

Garden City Helicopters

A helicopter flight from Akaroa to Christchurch takes just 15 minutes! Quick and convenient, leaving you more time to explore Christchurch City and attractions but also offering an incredible scenic flight over Banks Peninsula and the City itself. Our pilots are some of the most highly skilled and experienced in the country but are also excellent narrators and will entertain and inform you with commentary along the way. Other options include flights to Mt Cook, Heli-jetboating, heli-golf packages or why not fly to Pegasus Bay winery, one of NZ’s finest offering superb cuisine and wines

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Garden City Helicopters

Harbour Sail - Akaroa

Explore Akaroa Harbour on a modern 33ft yacht. The MRX is enjoyable to sail with a large open cockpit. A range of sailing options are available including a 2.5 hour harbour sail, custom sailing trips and learn-to-sail courses. No previous sailing experience necessary. Flexible departure times. Please enquire for bookings and further information.

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Harbour Sail Akaroa

Meniscus Wines

The wine is grown on the hillside off Lighthouse Rd on the south side of Akaroa overlooking the township. The vineyard is readily visible from the town as well as the Main and French Bay wharves. The grape varieties grown are award winning Riesling, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. The vineyard tasting room is the Meniscus Wine Lounge located at 42 Rue Lavaud where you can enjoy a glass in the French Cottage Garden or Monet inspired Lounge. Tasty gourmet snacks, gifts and soft drinks are also available.

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Meniscus Wines

Okains Bay Maori and Colonial Museum

Visit the Museum at the heart of historic Okains Bay. Enjoy the relaxed environment as you learn about life on Banks Peninsula in former times. Significant taonga Maori and early European items are among the exciting range of treasures on display in the Museum’s diverse complex of heritage buildings. Gift shop, tea and coffee available. Just 2kms to beautiful Okains Beach.

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Okains Bay Maori and Colonial Museum

Orion Powerhouse Gallery

The Orion Powerhouse Gallery began its life in historic Akaroa as the building which housed the hydroelectric power equipment from 1911. It was extended several years later to house a gas engine and workshop and remained in use until the mid-1950s. The equipment was sold to the Maruia Springs Hotel. At the end of the century the Maruia Springs plant became redundant so the equipment was returned to Akaroa by volunteers with support from the Akaroa Civic Trust.

Orion Powerhouse Gallery

Pohatu Penguin Tours and Sea Kayaking

Francis and Shireen Helps have protected the White-flippered Penguins at Pohatu-Flea Bay for more than two decades. Tours enable you to see the penguins unobtrusively. Sea Kayaking allows you to enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife of Pohatu Marine Reserve. Scenic Nature Tours will enable you to experience a wide range of endemic wildlife amongst dreamlike landscapes. See web site for departure times for Penguin Tours, Sea Kayaking Safaris, Nature Safaris and Overnight Packages.

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Pohatu Penguin Tours and Sea Kayaking v2

Sea-Kayaking Safari

This trip can be mind blowing in the right sea conditions. The outer coast of Pohatu Marine Reserve is spectacular with towering sea cliffs sculpted through the ages by the sea into rock stacks, reefs, and deep sea caves. Flea Bay Island and the impressive island arch make an added exciting attraction in settled sea conditions. Pohatu Marine Reserve also has many marine species such as Penguins, several seal colonies and is often visited by Hectors Dolphins and a great range of sea birds.

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beach

Selwyn Shuttle and Tours

We offer personalised tours for half day, full day or longer. Tours to suit your interests with numerous photo stops. We pick up from your cruise ship or from your hotel. A half day tour exploring attractions in the tranquil bays of Banks Peninsula or a full day can take in the attractions of Christchurch (or Akaroa) experiencing great scenery, wineries, Airforce museum, Canterbury Museum or the Maori and Colonial Museum, Antarctic Centre, cheese factory and gardens. Lots of possible options. Our 11 seater Mercedes mini bus offers comfort, tinted windows and informative commentary. Alan your driver/ guide has an extensive knowledge of the local area.

Selwyn Shuttle and Tours

The Giants House

The GIANTS HOUSE. Sculpture, mosaic garden and Gallery. "The happiest garden on earth". Garden of National significance by NZ Garden Trust. Trip Adviser - award of excellence, recommended by Lonely Planet. The Giants House - A historic Akaroa house with original artworks, terraced gardens with sculptures and mosaics. Romantic secluded and quiet, but only a few minutes walk from the centre of Akaroa. Very Unique! Playful, zany, exuberant, astounding, colorful, surprising, seriously playful, unique in the world....it will make you smile.

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The Giants House

Tour South Fully Escorted Tours

Let our Tour South team of vastly experienced driver/guides take you on a fully escorted tour of Akaroa, Christchurch or the wider Banks Peninsula area, to discover some of the dramatic scenery and fascinating history of this very special part of New Zealand. We offer our Quick-fire Akaroa & Bays Scenic Tour of 3 hours or choose our very popular Premier Share Tour for the best of the scenery of Akaroa, key City sights in Christchurch and some of the amazingly diverse and spectacularly beautiful Banks Peninsula area. Alternatively an Elite Private Hire, where you have the exclusive use of an appropriately sized vehicle complete with an experienced driver/guide for the day.

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Tour South Fully Escorted Tours

V8 Trikes

Experience the thrill and exhilaration of a ride on our V8-powered trike. Our trike is classed as a "car" in NZ, so you'll have the added peace of mind of a seatbelt, but you won't need a helmet – giving you uninterrupted views of Akaroa's breathtaking panoramic vistas. Whether it's a short blast or a longer drive along Akaroa's famous Summit Road, from just $29pp we've got you covered. And there's always time for photos. Let V8 Trikes make your visit to Akaroa truly memorable!

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V8 Trikes

Vintage Car Tours

Unleash the charm and beauty of Akaroa by enjoying a memorable ride in an open vintage car for up to four passengers. The Village is acclaimed to have one of the best seascapes in the World. On tour is a stunning wide-angle view of the harbour at height, a must for best photos. Comment from Rod and Maria, Bundaberg, Queensland, “Without a doubt your tour in the open Ford Tourer around Akaroa was the highlight of our recent trip to New Zealand”.

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Vintage Car Tours

Walking Tracks

Akaroa and Banks Peninsula has many great walking tracks that you can enjoy for free. These vary from short hikes to all day tramps over the picturesque hills. Most of the walks have spectacular views of the Akaroa harbour once you get up into the hills above the township.

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Walking Tracks

A Classic Ride

Akaroa and Banks Peninsula motorbike tours, car tours, rental car and vintage wedding car hire. Locally owned and operated.

A Classic Ride

Akaroa Adventure Centre

Wildlife kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, paddle boats, biking, surfing with the seals, electric skateboards and wet suits. We are situated next to the Akaroa 4 Square Supermarket on the corner. You can book for your activities and accommodation in Akaroa. We can also take you to the top of the summit road for a 13km down hill cycle ride.

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Akaroa Adventure Centre

Akaroa Cine Cafe

Akaroa’s boutique cinema is a great cinema experience. With sumptuous, luxurious and plush seating with a table for your coffee or glass of wine and the best of art, foreign, classic and new films.

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Akaroa Cine Cafe

Akaroa Winery

Akaroa Winery is a beautiful Mediterranean style venue, overlooking the stunning Akaroa inlet. Nestled in Takamatua Valley, the organic, family-owned vineyard is located on the north facing slopes of the lush hills of Banks Peninsula overlooking Takamatua Bay. We produce the highest quality grapes with every aspect of our growing and planting dedicated to the environment, using sustainable farming techniques. We believe that our fruit makes superior wines. We are focused on creating extraordinary age-worthy wines that express the unique characteristics of the fruit from Takamatua Valley. The rugged terrior of our vineyard produces wines with great intensity and finesse. Enjoy...

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Akaroa Winery

Akaroa Coast up Close Wildlife Adventures

Come see spectacular coastline and magnificent wildlife aboard our classic Kauri launch. 2.5 hour trips, personally guided by skipper/owner Tony Muir. Boarding from far -end of Main Wharf, Akaroa at 10.15 and 1.45pm. Small groups on a spacious, dry and comfortable wooden launch. Private fishing and social charters are available.

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Akaroa Coast up Close Wildlife Adventures

Akaroa Cooking School

We share recipes, cooking ideas and entertaining secrets for up to twelve per class. We show how to prepare the dishes on that day’s menu in a relaxed & fun environment. A long lunch at the dining table will then be served savouring every dish from the class with matching NZ wines. All participants need to bring are their culinary interest and an appetite. We can also assist with your catering needs at your venue, private hire and the perfect place for corporate events, team building days, end of year function or mid winter get together.

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Akaroa Cooking School

Akaroa Dolphins-Harbour Nature Cruises

Let our crew including our dolphin dogs, take you on a journey of discovery. Enjoy the fascinating history and amazing wildlife on our stylish vessel 'Into the Blue'. A more intimate and luxurious experience, offering complimentary drinks, including award winning wine, beer and home baking. We are 100% locally owned and operated, winners of the Champion Canterbury Business Award for Tourism in 2015, Rankers winner of Dolphin Watching Experience in 2013, and ranked Number 1 on TripAdvisor for Boat Tours in Akaroa. We have a great proven track record for offering an unforgettable nature cruise experience.

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Akaroa Dolphins Harbour Nature Cruises

Akaroa Farm Tours

If you ever wanted to experience traditional New Zealand farming visit Paua Bay Hillcountry Farm on Banks Peninsula. Enjoy the stunning scenery on your trip to Paua Bay. Learn about the French settlers and the development of Akaroa . Enjoy the hospitality of the 5th generation farmers at Paua Bay. See sheepdogs working on the steep hills. Take part in sheep shearing and mustering and learn about farming in New Zealand. Relax with tea and scones on the homestead verandah and return to Akaroa after an experience which will be one of the highlights of your visit to New Zealand.

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Akaroa Farm Tours

Akaroa's Fox II

Sorry, we are now closed until the 16th of December. Sail with dophins, see wildlife. Akaroa harbour up close on New Zealand's oldest ketch Fox II. Learn about local history & help crew if you want. With 2 wooden masts and 6 sails there is always a halyard to hoist or a sheet to be pulled. 3 hour tour with historic narration, complementary fresh brewed coffee, tea, homemade hot chocolate and biscuits. The only boat in Akaroa with dolphin guarantee! You will see dolphins, penguins and seals (sometimes albatross), visit Cathedral Cave, see a waterfall and giant cliffs.

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Akaroas Fox II

Akaroa French Connection

French Connection is a quality assured passenger transport service who pride themselves on friendliness and punctuality whilst achieving a high standard of safety and comfort. They are also available for weddings and local transfers in the Akaroa and Christchurch regions.

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Akaroa French Connection

Akaroa Golf Club

A popular course with panoramic views. This delightful 18 hole golf course occupies 28 hectares of undulating country at the head of picturesque Akaroa harbour. We hire out equipment at a reasonable rate. Please phone us for all your enquiries. We also hire out the Golf Club for weddings and functions.

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Akaroa Golf Club

Akaroa Guided Kayak Safari

Explorers, wanderers, dreamers... Get set! It's time to rekindle that adventurous spirit and experience the tranquility and magic of the Akaroa Bays from the comfort of your kayak. Your guides will lead you through this Eco paradise we call home, it is a must do for any visitors to New Zealand! Take this once in a lifetime opportunity to paddle in an extinct, sea flooded volcanic crater whilst taking in some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. With over 17 square miles of stunning coves and bays to explore, your guides will ensure you have the best possible experience on the water.

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Akaroa Guided Kayak Safari

Akaroa Guided Walks

A tapestry of tales will unfold as you explore romantic Akaroa, the oldest and best preserved colonial town in the South Island, and its only French settlement. For groups we recommend a Historic walk with a guide in person - pre-booking is essential. Contact Suky to discuss a quote for group bookings.

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Akaroa Guided Walks

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruises

Join supreme tourism award winners – Black Cat Cruises, aboard our large comfortable catamaran. Discover and learn about rare Hector's dolphins, seals, penguins and more. See Volcanic Cathedral Cave, relics of the area's past and a salmon farm. Complimentary tea & coffee on board and a postcard. Cruises depart daily from the main wharf. If you don’t see any dolphins, come again for FREE!

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Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruises

Akaroa Jet Adventures

To add to the many attractions that the beautiful Akaroa harbour provides, we specialize in giving the more adventurous an unforgettable jet boating experience, a must for those seeking that something extra! Climb aboard our 20 seat, twin v8 600HP 'Phat time' jet boat. This 7.5 metre cobra jet boat is the latest design combining power and speed with built-in comfort and exceptional safety features. A high speed 360 degree spin will show you just what this jet boat is capable of.

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Akaroa Jet Adventures

Akaroa Museum

Akaroa Museum reflects the varied and colourful history of Banks Peninsula. Three heritage buildings-the Langlois-Eteveneaux cottage (early 1840’s), the Customs House (early 1850’s) and the Court House (1878) are part of the Akaroa Museum complex. ‘The Long Harbour-a 20 minute DVD tells of the volcanic origins of Akaroa and it’s settlement. The permanent collection includes a complete edition of the Akaroa Mail from 1876, nineteenth and twentieth century costume, photographic and family history archives. Right in the centre of Akaroa.

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Akaroa Museum

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