Akaroa Nature and History Tour
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Port
Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$480
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
The Akaroa Nature and History Tour has it all: Maori culture and history, intertribal warfare, European and French settlements, stunning nature and conservation projects. Prepare to be amazed by the breadth and diversity of information along with stunning sights.
Depart Akaroa following the scenic Beach Road past the Akaroa Lighthouse to Takapuneke, site of the infamous Te Rauparaha massacre that gave rise to the Treaty of Waitangi. Then visit Onuku Marae where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in New Zealand and explore the picturesque church and Maori settlement. Then return to overlook the Britomart Monument and learn of the dramatic "race for Akaroa" between the French and the English and the claiming of the South Island, directly from a French descendant. Next, relax in comfort as we enjoy a back road driving tour of historic Akaroa, visiting many important settler’s buildings, including your guides family homes and heritage.
From here, begin our climb to the summit, stopping for a refreshment at the spectacular Heritage Park overlooking Akaroa Harbour (weather permitting). Tea, coffee, and a light snack will be provided. As we reach the top of the hills we enter a different world of wild beauty, wildlife and coastal farms right up to the cliff’s edge. Learn about Hinewai Reserve and the Wildside conservation project directly from the manager and understand sustainable sheep farming in New Zealand, from a local farmer.
Way back up and over the hill to Little River, relax and reflect on your journey while taking in some of the most beautiful scenery on earth, resting in the knowledge that most of it is dedicated to the protection of nature.
This tour will give you a greater sense of place during your visit to Akaroa. You will gain an understanding of the formidable history that shapes this place and people. This understanding will help you to go beyond the scenery to connect with nature, conservation projects and the passion of this community.
A tour note: Your guide Marie Haley was born and raised on her family farm on Banks Peninsula, a Seventh Generation direct descendant of Akaroa’s very first French settler. Marie will take you on an in-depth tour with genuine stories of history, conservation, people and place. Marie is currently a conservation manager for the Wildside project. Her love of history drives an awareness of future actions and her focus is on conservation and protection of the local forest and wild life species such as yellow-eyed penguins and little blue penguins that call the area home.