Visit Akaroa & Banks Peninsula, New Zealand

Pigeon Bay, Lavericks Bay and Okains Bay are fine examples of the picturesque inlets and small villages that dot the peninsula.

Formed by the eruption of the Akaroa volcano, Banks Peninsula was once an island itself and reminders of this dramatic geological past are everywhere, with rocky volcanic outcrops, craggy headlands, deep valleys and precipitous bluffs.

Akaroa

Akaroa is the oldest town in Canterbury and lies in a scenic harbor on the peninsula in which the dolphins can often be seen.

The town has the feel of a French provincial village as it stands on the site of the first French settlement in New Zealand and this Gallic charm is still evident, with descendants of these early settlers still living in the area.

One of the best ways of exploring the area is on one of the excellent organized excursions from Christchurch.