The Best Hotels In Akaroa New Zealand

Once the only French settlement in New Zealand, Akaroa’s heritage architecture, volcanic harbour and croissant-rolling bakeries provide plenty of reasons to hang out at this relaxed Canterbury township. From Colonial-era inns to waterfront motels, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay.

1. Akaroa Criterion Motel

Hotel

The motel’s full name, Maison Par Quay, not only hints at the area’s French history but also the view you’ll be afforded from these 12 generously furnished studio apartments. A balcony or patio will grant you a view of Akaroa Harbour, worth it alone for the sunset over Daly’s Wharf. The two-storey building also boasts underfloor heating for colder days, while its ground-floor studio room is wheelchair accessible.

2. La Rochelle Motel

Hotel

Found in the leafy north end of the bay, between L’aube Hill Reserve and Akaroa Recreation Ground, the private garden at La Rochelle Motel gives you the chance to try the traditional French game, pétanque. Fishing and tennis gear can also be hired free of charge for local use. Continental breakfasts are available, while for dinner, hosts Trevor and Erica are likely to recommend the sumptuous seafood dishes at the Little Bistro, a two-minute walk away.

3. Akaroa FyrneBrooke House

Hotel

A babbling brook runs through the grounds of this tranquil B&B that can also be rented as an entire holiday home. Along with four super-king suites, the property comes with a fully equipped kitchen, laundry room and library. Owners Ali and Charl are happy for you to bring your pets, and the hosts’ own cats can be spotted lounging among the roses and rhododendrons. Fresh berries and veg grown in the garden feature as part of a sumptuous breakfast.

5. Akaroa Waterfront Motels

Hotel

Just metres from the water’s edge, enjoy the exclusive use of a private jetty at Akaroa Waterfront Motel. Dive in for a swim or – for a small additional charge – explore in a kayak. An activity-crammed garden includes a pool table, giant chess board and barbecue equipment. Around the corner, Rona’s Café offers fresh coffee and croissants, and a table in the courtyard to enjoy the morning sun.

6. Akaroa Village Inn

Inn

The French tricolore flies proudly outside this Beach Road inn, a pétanque throw from where French whalers first landed in 1838. Penthouse suites here include leather furnishings, double spa baths and roomy balconies. You’ll find elegant four-poster beds in the suitably named romantic suites, though its most unique room makes smart use of a glass-panelled turret, offering a 270-degree view of the waterfront.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.