Road Trip Highlights Christchurch to Akaroa
This enjoyable scenic route along State Highway 75 to Akaroa takes in stunning views of the Banks Peninsula. The 90-minute trip has spectacular scenery driving across farmland with plenty of things to see and places to stop.
The drive from Christchurch to Akaroa is 84kms long which takes around 90 minutes nonstop, but you will want to have a few stops on the way, so allow at least 2.5 hours
Leaving Christchurch on SH75 through Halswell, you will arrive in the town of Tai Tapu. This pleasant community is worth a stop for lunch at the Tai Tapu Hotel Restaurant and Bar.
The next leg along SH75 is a winding road as you head towards Motukarara and Birdlings Flat. A popuar surf-casting beach, Birdlings Flat is a well known place to find small agates and a variety of other attractive pebbles Swimming and surfing is not advised due to strong currents. Hector's dolphins live along the beach along with fur seals and whales.
After passing the scenic attraction of Lake Forsyth, you will arrive at the small town of Little River. Stop here (or stay the night) and soak up local artwork, and locally produced wine and cheese. Leaving Little River, the roads get steeper and twisty. The higher you go the scenery gets better and better.
At the top of the hill is the famous Hilltop Tavern. This is another good place to stop for a bite to eat, or to simply park up and enjoy the view. You are also able to see Akaroa in the distance from the carpark.
Beginning your descent down the hill you will come across Barry’s Bay. Cheese lovers must stop at the Barrys Bay Cheese factory for some locally handcrafted traditional cheese which has been produced since 1895. The road continues through the small neighbourhoods of Duvauchelle, Robinsons Bay and Takamatua.
After you pass through these towns you climb a hill before arriving at Akaroa. With beautiful bays and harbour, Akaroa is New Zealand’s only French colony, making this a special place of historic heritage, including unique buildings and structures. In Flea Bay you will find 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, kayaking, cycle tours, wine tours, fishing and an excellent range of walking tracks. Don't miss seeing the Hector's dolphins and other special wildlife on a harbour cruise.
Located 15 minutes from Akaroa, The French Farm overlooks the Akaroa Harbour and known for its wineries and secluded beaches. Enjoy stunning views over the region, visit a vineyard or stay in unique accommodation.
Good food and wine are abundant to the area Akaroa is rich in Arts and Crafts with many unique crafts shops. You will love the shopping in Akaroa where you can walk from one end to the other in 15 minutes, with some exquisite local boutiques. There is so much to see and do in Akaroa that you will need more than a day trip.
Plan your Christchurch to Akaroa road trip
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