Visit Akaroa on the South Island’s Banks Peninsula. The most French town in New Zealand, Akaroa will entrance you with its historic buildings, magnificent harbour and passion for fine food.

South-east of Christchurch, Banks Peninsula is the South Island’s most interesting volcanic feature. Originally an island formed by two volcanic cones, the peninsula has two dominant craters which form Lyttelton and Akaroa Harbours. The peninsula was named for botanist Joseph Banks, who sailed with Captain James Cook on the Endeavour.

Located on the south east side of the deep, sheltered Akaroa Harbour is the charming township of Akaroa has a special point of difference. It was the only French settlement in New Zealand. And it still maintains a very French feel today through many of the cafes, architecture and cuisine.