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Bay · Akaroa, Canterbury
Akaroa Harbour
Natural harbour formed in the crater of an ancient volcano on the Banks Peninsula, with cliffs, caves and coves. Boat trips depart from Akaroa wharf; the harbour is home to Hector's dolphin, the smallest dolphin in the world.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Akaroa Harbour
Akaroa Harbour occupies what remained of one of the eruptive centres of the ancient Banks Peninsula volcano, active millions of years ago. The sea flooded the crater and formed a long arm of water, surrounded by hills, with the village of Akaroa on the east shore and the Ōnawe peninsula at the head, where there was a Māori fortification captured in 1832.
Boat trips depart from the main wharf and travel the harbour out to the entrance to the open sea, passing volcanic cliffs, caves and bird colonies. Akaroa Marine Reserve lies at the harbour entrance. It is common to see New Zealand fur seals and little blue penguins.
The harbour is one of the places where Hector's dolphin is often seen; it exists only in New Zealand and is the smallest dolphin in the world, about 1.2 to 1.6 metres long. The species is threatened and comes closer to shore in spring and summer. Some trips allow swimming near the dolphins following protection rules; contact depends on the animals.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 hours by boat.
Best time
From November to March, with more departures and dolphins closer to the coast. Mornings usually have lighter winds.
How to get there
Boats depart from Akaroa's main wharf, in the village centre.
Tip
The boat trip is charged separately; check current prices. To swim with dolphins, book in advance: departures are limited and weather-dependent. The water is cold; operators provide neoprene suits.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Akaroa Harbour
What is Hector's dolphin?
It is the smallest dolphin in the world, about 1.2 to 1.6 metres long, found only in New Zealand. The species is threatened and is protected around the Banks Peninsula.
Can you swim with dolphins in Akaroa?
Yes, on authorised trips that follow protection rules. Encounters depend on the animals and the weather; book in advance.
How long is the boat trip in Akaroa?
About two hours, from the wharf to the harbour entrance and back.