Sailing up the strait into Port of Akaroa is a not-to-be-missed experience. The name is a Maori word that means 'long harbour' and with green towering hills topped with craggy rock from a long extinct volcano, the arrival is reminiscent of the approach to the Norwegian fjords -- simply stunning.
Akaroa has been an alternative port for Christchurch since the 2011 earthquake destroyed the pier at the much-closer Lyttelton Harbour. Until a new cruise ship facility opens in the 2020/21 summer season, many passengers undertake the 1.5-hour drive to Christchurch, the third largest city in New Zealand.
But there's a lot to be said for staying in Akaroa. The tiny town is a former French settlement that oozes Gallic charm, from its French street names to its pretty painted timber cottages that house an abundance of galleries, local crafts, coffee shops and restaurants.
Home to about 700 locals, Akaroa blossoms to a bustling 1,500 over the summer season -- and a cruise ship visit can double that.
There is something to suit all the family: swimming with dolphins, sailing, fabulous nature walks, penguin encounters, motorbike tours and historical walks are just a few of the activities on offer. The view of the harbour -- and your ship -- from the surrounding hilltops is worth the hike or drive.
History buffs will note the bust of Frank Worsley, the skipper of Shackleton's Endurance Antarctic Expedition, looking out to sea in the small waterfront park. The nearby Akaroa Museum has a Worsley exhibition, Salute to Adventure, as Akaroa was Worsley's home town.
If you are not one for tours you can just enjoy the quaint village, which takes about an hour to explore. Once that's done you are free to grab a coffee or glass of local wine, sit back and take in the picture-perfect vista of sparking harbour waters surrounded by green rolling hills.
