Banks Peninsula District - Places To Go

Akaroa: French heritage charm and the finest of foods

This is the place where sheltered harbour, French heritage, colonial architecture and a passion for fine food fuse perfectly together. Read the story . . .

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Activities

Boating: Kiwis on the water

Going to the beach, lake or river for a splash is so commonplace in New Zealand, we seldom spare a thought for those in land-locked in places, thousands of kilometres from the shore. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Banks Peninsula: land of volcanoes and mini dolphins

On Banks Peninsula you can sleep under the stars in a glass house, swim with miniature dolphins and dine on amazing local food all in the same day... Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Our marine reserves: treasures under the sea

In essence, the very simple overriding edict for a marine reserve is no take. Nothing may be removed: not fish, not seaweed, not stones, not feathers or shells off the beach. Read the story . . .

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Road trips

Inland Scenic Route 72: Christchurch loop

Round trips are immensely satisfying. There’s a pleasing symmetry in ending up back where you started, a closing of the loop, a real sense of achievement. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Loved by the locals: Banks Peninsula

Do what the locals do in Banks Peninsula. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Pōhatu Marine Reserve

Many of New Zealand’s most charismatic marine animals hang out at Pōhatu Marine Reserve on Banks Peninsula, home to both penguin and seal colonies. Read the story . . .

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Things to do

Akaroa Marine Reserve

Akaroa is a very special place, visited by the world’s smallest dolphin, the Hector’s dolphin. Read the story . . .

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Activities

Loved by the locals: Lyttelton

Do what the locals do in Lyttelton. Read the story . . .

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Activities

Adventure time: swimming with dolphins in Akaroa

In Akaroa you can have the rare and remarkable experience of getting up close to the world’s smallest dolphin. Read the story . . .

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Natural attractions

Akaroa: French charm

An hour’s easy drive from Christchurch and just over the crest of the hill you reach Akaroa harbour opening dramatically before you, the land dropping steeply to turquoise sea. Read the story . . .

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Activities

Experience the sea as it’s meant to be at a marine reserve

New Zealand’s marine reserves and protected areas offer visitors a unique opportunity to see fish and marine life, thriving and abundant in their natural environment. Read the story . . .

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Family fun

The Giant’s House: a whimsical wonderland

At the top of a hill in Akaroa, you’ll find a striking candy-coloured house with the kind of garden that dreams are made of. Read the story . . .

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Activities

Paddle around Akaroa Harbour at night

Imagine floating around the tranquil Akaroa Harbour atop a stand-up paddleboard, in the dark. Read the story . . .

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