Highlights
- Visit Barry's Bay Cheese and Little River
- Explore the award-winning Giant's House with admission included
- Admire views of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula
Description
Join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a trip to the award winning Giant’s House, this journey is one you will never forget.
Itinerary:
Christchurch - We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head towards Banks Peninsula, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.
Little River (25 minutes) - Before continuing over the hill, you will be greeted by the hidden gem that is Little River. Nestled deep amongst streams, springs, and farms, it is at this delightful small town that you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a coffee for the day ahead. This is just a short stop, but one that will certainly be memorable with its popular store, cafe, and gallery.
Summit Road - Reaching the top of Christchurch-Akaroa Road, we head along the scenic Summit Road, stopping en route at a scenic viewpoint or two for sweeping panoramic views of Banks Peninsula and the surrounding bays.
Akaroa + Giant’s House (4 hours approx) - After departing Barry’s Bay, we continue past Duvauchelles, Robinson’s Bay, and Takamatua before arriving at our destination: Akaroa. Once in the village, we will enjoy lunch and take in some of the local sights, such as the Lighthouse and waterfront, before we drop you at the Giant’s House*; the one-of-a-kind unique garden filled with mosaic sculptures. Recognised as a ‘Garden of International Significance’, the house is full of splendour, charm, and beautiful and brightly coloured artwork. Our guide will leave you to explore this iconic location - with photo opportunities galore! - before picking you up as we head back to Ōtautahi.
*Please note that this product is purely for those interested in the Giant’s House. It is highly unlikely that there will be time for additional walks or local shopping.
Barry's Bay Cheese (10 minutes) - Departing Akaroa, we drive via Takamatua, Robinson's Bay, and Duvauchelles as we make our way back to Christchurch. En route, we make a brief stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese to sample some of their delicious cheeses. Founded and producing artisan cheese since 1895, to this day their handcrafted cheeses are popular with locals and tourists alike.
Gebbies Pass - Returning to Christchurch via Gebbies Pass, enjoy views over Christchurch, across to Lyttelton, the other side of the Peninsula, and out to the Canterbury Heads on a clear day.
Christchurch - After our day out, we make our way back to the Garden City. Sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Akaroa and Te Pataka o Rakaihautū. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!
Includes
Small group size
Carbon neutral tour of Akaroa from Christchurch
Breathtaking views of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula
Little River Township
Barry’s Bay Cheese
Akaroa Lighthouse and Harbour
Admission to the Giant’s House
Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
WiFi and USB charging
Commentary
100% Kiwi as experience
Excludes
Self-selected purchases at Little River/Barry's Bay Cheese/Akaroa
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
