Canterbury is a region full of beautiful gardens - Christchurch being known as the 'Garden City'. See Christchurch map.
Akaroa on Banks Peninsula is a unique and enchanting harbour village, a little over and hour's drive from Christchurch. The route from Christchurch to Akaroa affords breathtaking views of the long harboour and surrounding countryside.
Akaroa has a French flavour unique in New Zealand. In 1840, a shipload of French settlers arrived on the sailing ship 'Comte de Paris" believing the colony had been claimed for France. However the British had already established sovereignty. Although an English immigrant ship arrived ten years later, it was those early French families who built the first cottages, planted the walnut trees, the apple and pear orchards, and established vinyards from cuttings and seeds that had survived the long journey.
Today, the names of streets, hotels, shops and cafes reflect Akaroa's French heritage.
Step back in time and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of Akaroa. Visit heritage homes and gardens and relics of original bush including native trees more than 800 years old. Seeand hear the abundant bird life - bellbirds, fantails, native wood pigeons, kingfishers and more.
