Beauty Awaits

We’re all familiar with the idea that we don’t check out our own backyards, romanticising instead the unfamiliar, the great global journeys, the far flung countries, but right next door to Christchurch, our geographical neighbour offers everything you could possibly hope for in a destination.

Whether investing in a day trip or something a little more substantial, a journey around the beautiful Akaroa and Banks Peninsula will reward you with picturesque vistas at every turn, a thriving artisan culture and a marine environment teaming with wildlife. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the alluring French character of the Akaroa township – a seaside retreat just 90 minutes from the city.

Packed with charm, the nods to its history as a French settlement are everywhere, with pretty French-named streets, lined with historic cottages cloaked in roses. While away the hours browsing boutique shops and craft galleries, and stop for a pick-me-up of fine local food and wine at a café or restaurant overlooking the shimmering waters of Akaroa Harbour. Relaxation doesn’t get much better than this!

This charming township has all the makings for the perfect romantic getaway. Take your pick from a swath of luxurious accommodation options, enjoy a long lunch or lingering dinner at a cosy café or restaurant and stroll hand in hand through the town’s enchanting streets and shops.

So make sure you get a local’s take on what to see and do here. And factor in a few days to enjoy this charming peninsula getaway – it’s much more than a day trip destination, so start planning your weekend getaway today.