Akaroa’s Stunning Attractions on Walking and Boating Tours

Akaroa is a one of those unique destinations, that is full of “National Geographic” moments. The landscapes and geological formations are awesome reminders of the epic powers of Mother Nature, carving masterpieces of exquisite scenery.   As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, my ship cruised inside New Zealand’s Akaroa Harbor numerous times. This is one of my absolutely most favorite destinations in the world.  So, I love sharing my tips on how to explore Akaroa New Zealand attractions from walking and boating tours.

Background of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula

The Banks Peninsula is the most significant volcanic formation of New Zealand’s South Island.  Comparatively, Dunedin’s older volcano is similar with the Otago Peninsula and Harbour.  However, Akaroa Harbor is more than twice as large.  Eight million years ago, the Banks peninsula formed as offshore islands.  Over time, Lyttleton and Akaroa Harbors evolved from the peninsula.  The Maori name for Akaroa is Kai Tau, meaning “Long Harbour.”

Akaroa harbor is sheltered and surrounded by the remains of a volcano.   Along with the harbor name, Akaroa is also the name for the resort town. This historic and artistic town has a large French influence with incredible boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Additionally, there are numerous walking tracks for all different levels, with stunning scenery and unique trails. 

Akaroa is popular for its fantastic marine wildlife.   Many people come to see or swim (in wetsuits) with the Hector Dolphins in the harbor.  These are the smallest dolphins in the world. Also, these harbors are home to the White Flippered Penguins, the smallest penguins in the world (just 30 cm tall).  Furthermore, on boat tours, visitors can see the marine wildlife, including the dolphins, penguins and Fur Seals (in Seal Bay).  Additionally, the harbor is spectacular for viewing its dramatic volcanic rock formations, sea caves and lava flows.  This really brings to life that Akaroa was a live volcano millions of years ago. 

My Scenic Walking Tour
Akaroa New Zealand Attractions

When I first arrived here, I was immediately drawn east on the Children’s Way Walkway.  Awesome and serene, yet full of surprises, I made my way on a short trail that can be done in less than an hour if on a tight schedule.  Overall, the omnipresent views are breathtaking of the surrounding landscape with the cerulean harbor in the middle.  The colors of New Zealand waters are like nowhere else.  So, I just call them cerulean.

Walking along I unexpectedly discovered metal sculptures of 4 giraffes and a rhino.  It is just so random yet fun to find this display.  It makes for artistic and unusual photos.  The rhino also is positioned on a hill with dramatic views of Akaroa and the Akaroa Harbor on one side, and Takamatua Bay on the other.  Everywhere you look is so picturesque and then here sits a metal rhino, which only a photo can explain.

Related: Stunning Tauranga & Mt Maunganui Attractions on Bay of Plenty

Then, I walked by a farm with cows mooing at me and found vintage farm equipment in the middle of a wheatfield.  Overall, this stands out as one of the most unique walks of my life with quirky and insanely beautiful countryside and harbor.  There are numerous tracks in the area for all levels, so research this ahead of time it you love to see things by foot. 

My Harbour Boating Tour
Marine Wildlife & Volcanic Formations

Even though the dolphin experience was disappointing for me, my tour of the volcanic geological masterpieces and the fur seals more than made up for this.  We saw a pod of Hector dolphins, but it was too difficult to see much because it was so precarious and happened so fast.

Tip:  If you really want to see the Hector Dolphins at Akaroa, swim with them in wetsuits for a more intimate experience. 

But as for the volcanic rock formations, sea caves, and lava flows, this may be the best tour of my life.  My pictures say so much more than I ever could.  So, I will share my favorite photos of the volcanic cliffs, caves, wildlife and Seal Bay. 

Elephant Head – Can you see it in the face of the rock?

Sea Caves

Formed by a gas bubble from volcanic lava flows, exploding and leaving a cellar. 

Cliff of Notoriety – Dan Rogers

This is the largest cliff at 270 m high on the Banks Peninsula. Also, the legend says that a bank robber, Dan Rogers fell from the precipice.

Seal Bay

Additionally, we saw many Fur Seals swimming and laying on the rocks.  In some areas, they played in secluded rock pools, safe from predators.  Overall, this was a wonderful opportunity to see many seals and some very close. 

Shag Rock

We stopped to observe the rock full of the seabirds called Shags, aka cormorants.  Because they don’t have oil on their feathers, they must dry out on rocks several times a day. 

Scenery Nook

Ok, this was the climax of my entire tour in Akaroa by land and sea at this unique formation!  This volcanic amphitheater was formed by lava escaping through a split in the volcano wall.  Moreover, it is an extraordinary example of a volcanic dyke.

Overall, Akaroa New Zealand Attractions

This has to be one of the best destinations for both marine wildlife and geology.  The volcanic land formations are epic and take you back millions of years.  However, the gorgeous landscapes, dolphins, whales, penguins and seabirds keep you deeply present on the here and now of astounding Akaroa!

Next: Cruising New Zealand’s Spectacular Fiordland