Wild Akaroa

Escape the crowds and get in touch with nature. The volcanic crater provides a rich environment for birds and marine life, and is itself a spectacular backdrop. Experience the dramatic scenery of the harbour mouth with a harbour cruise, and watch for Hector's dolphins, which often play alongside the boats.

The world's smallest, Hector's dolphins grow to a maximum length of 1.4 metres and weigh less than 50 kilograms. The population of this species is esitimated at only 3000, but the new Banks Peninsula Marine Mammal Sanctuary has been created to safeguard the remaining numbers. Yellow-eyed and little blue penguins (also the world's smallest) and New Zealand fur seals are also commonly seen in the Harbour.

Take in the broad sweep of the crater rim and the deep void of the harbour from the Summit Road behind Akaroa. A series of 32 small reserves are scatter over the peninsula, protecting important ecological areas. Some of these are easy to explore on foot, while others are best viewed from the road.