Highlights of Banks Peninsula

Explore Akaroa 🏘️
Known as New Zealand’s only French settlement, Akaroa charms with its colourful buildings, quaint shops, and French-inspired cafes. Stroll along the waterfront, visit the Akaroa Museum, or try the local French pastries for a taste of France with a Kiwi twist.

Swim with Dolphins 🐬
Akaroa Harbor is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with the endangered Hector’s dolphins, the smallest and rarest dolphin species. Tours offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to interact with these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

Hiking in Hinewai Reserve 🌿
Hinewai Reserve is a conservation area with beautiful, regenerating native bush and diverse birdlife. The reserve has numerous trails that range from easy to challenging, each offering scenic views over the peninsula’s landscapes.

Kayak or Paddleboard in the Bays 🛶
The calm, clear waters of Flea Bay and Le Bons Bay are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Take to the water to explore the rugged coast, sea caves, and even encounter seals, penguins, and dolphins in the area.

Visit Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory 🧀
Stop by Barry’s Bay Cheese for a taste of traditional New Zealand cheese, hand-crafted for over 120 years. Take a tour, watch the cheesemakers in action, and enjoy free samples of their famous cheeses.

Discover Okains Bay 🌅
This historic bay offers a blend of natural beauty and Māori heritage. Visit the Okains Bay Māori and Colonial Museum to see artifacts from the region’s history, then relax on the tranquil beach for a perfect day out.

Penguin Spotting at Pohatu Marine Reserve 🐧
The Pohatu Marine Reserve near Akaroa is a haven for penguins, especially the little blue penguin and the rare white-flippered penguin. Guided tours allow you to observe these adorable birds up close in their natural habitat.

Hike the Banks Peninsula Track 🚶
This 35-kilometer, multi-day hike offers stunning scenery through farmland, native bush, and coastal cliffs. It’s a great way to experience the peninsula’s varied landscapes and wildlife, with unique accommodations along the route.

Visit the Giant’s House 🌈
Located in Akaroa, the Giant’s House is an art lover’s paradise with vibrant mosaics, sculptures, and terraced gardens. Created by local artist Josie Martin, this whimsical spot is one of the peninsula’s most unique and colourful attractions.

Scenic Drive along Summit Road 🛣️
Take the Summit Road for a scenic drive along the peninsula’s ridge with breathtaking views over Akaroa Harbor, the Pacific Ocean, and rolling farmlands. With several lookout points along the way, it’s a photographer’s dream.

Tips for Visiting Banks Peninsula 📅

Best time to visit is summer (December to February) when the weather is warm, ideal for outdoor activities and beach time.

Bring layers and sturdy shoes—the weather can change quickly, and the terrain on trails can be rough.

Allow 1-2 days to truly explore the peninsula and enjoy its beauty at a relaxed pace.

Banks Peninsula is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic, scenic slice of New Zealand with a touch of French flair. With its diverse activities, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife experiences, it’s the perfect getaway from city life.