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Once at the top, you will have a great view of the township of Akaroa and Harbour plus the awesome metal sculpture of the famous rhino!

Find this forest of both exotic and native trees at the South end of town. Start with the playground, then walk the tracks while listening to Bellbird and Tui songs. One track will take you to a great view of the village lighthouse. This is a small slice of paradise right within the township and yet still hidden enough to enable you to feel you could be a million miles away. Young (and old) can run up and down the well-kept paths, squealing with delight as fantails dip in between you and the trees to say hi and eat the bugs you stir up along the way.

Hinewai is an ecological restoration project on Banks Peninsula, privately owned and managed by the Maurice White Native Forest Trust, originally set up in 1987. Now, lucky for us, it is open the public on foot. It is great example of how a farmland covered by gorse can be transformed into a regenerated native forest, acting as a nursery. Hugh Wilson (manager) and the rest of Hinewai team have worked hard for the past 30+ years to replant native species, remove introduced plants and animals (pests) and create and maintain tracks for easy access. Some areas of the tracks are steep and they can also be slippery after rain. The weather can change rapidly on the Banks Peninsula and particularly on the tops so adequate footwear and clothing should be taken into consideration.
This stunning and special spot should not be missed.
Map at the entrance of the reserve.

We have a great little library in Akaroa for when the weather is not in your favour. There you will find a lovely selection of adult and kid’s books, activities, and games. There is even a section with books in French!

As a side bonus, within the same building you will find the lovely Ethel’s cinema and café - open to everyone, not just cinema clients! They serve delicious drinks and treats. During the school holidays they often have a movie for the whole family. Remember to take a big scoop of freshly popped pop-corn to munch while watching your movie ;)

This small museum offers a great insight into Banks peninsula history covering the maori settlement, the European colonisation, and a natural history of the area with Hugh Wilson’s videos! Yes, the local hero of Hinewai reserve ;)
Regular exhibitions, historical videos, and the chance to visit an original French cottage are also included in your visit.
Donation at entrance.

Join one of passionate and knowledgeable guides on one of their tours to Pōhatu Marine Reserve/ Flea Bay. You will discover the world of Little Penguins - how they behave, their history, their current status, and the work that the Helps family has been doing for the last 30+ years protecting this very special colony and the stunning environment in which they live.

Many companies offer fantastic 2-hour harbour cruises in and outside of Akaroa harbour. You will have the chance to see fantastic views of towering cliffs and deep sea-caves without forgetting the rich history of the area and the abundant wildlife, including the very cute and playful Hector’s Dolphin.

You can find them all here on akaroa.com

If you find yourself with and hour or two to spare, consider the super cute and cuddly Alpaca at Wainui! You will get to meet some of their superstar award winning alpacas while spending time with them in their paddocks, feeding them. All while enjoying the breath-taking scenery and learning about the wonderful eco-fibre products made in New Zealand from their unique wool.

We all love a good game, gently competing against each other and this is where children can get the best of us.
An 18-hole mini-golf course with a steam punk theme will guarantee you some fun family time!

The Giant’s House is a unique and vibrant mosaic garden - full of exuberant and colourful sculptures, including a beautifully kept garden and art gallery and sometimes, even a small café offering treats to enjoy while listening to the garden piano!