Explore Akaroa and Banks Peninsula

Head an hour south to Banks Peninsula, a landscape that was carved by volcanic eruptions more than 8m years ago. Trails lead through rocky valleys, bluffs and bays that are steeped in European and Māori history. The 1840 French settlement of Akaroa is a highlight, with French-named streets lined with colonial cottages. Sail the peninsula to catch a glimpse of diverse marine life including orcas, penguins, fur seals and Hector’s dolphin, one of the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin species.