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Offered languages
- English
Do not miss out on this incredible New Zealand experience.
Just look at the amazing 5 star reviews!
Guests describe this tour as the “New Zealand’s best kept secret”, “the best thing to do in Akaroa”, “best tour in Canterbury.”
This tour is owned and operated by The 7th Generation descendant of the French settlers, expert trained historian and ecologist and natural born storyteller.
There is NO OTHER TOUR LIKE IT.
Guests consistently report that the tour had a BIG impact on them, leaving them feeling connected to nature and inspired for the future.
Expert guide Marie Haley, was a FINALIST at the 2024 New Zealand Tourism Awards for Tourism Business Excellence, a big deal for a one-woman operation.
This tour will take you to all of Akaroa’s hidden gems - you will simply see no other tourists.
This tour includes all the best things to do in Akaroa, that you could not access and understand without this expert guide.
No other tour in New Zealand tells THIS story; my story.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please wear comfortable shoes, bring a jacket, hat and water bottle.
Look for the silver minibus with red sign writing. At the bus stop outside the Akaroa Post Office and Information Centre.
Itinerary
-
(Pass by)
Learn about the historic Akaroa Lighthouse and its incredible connection to the Robert Louis Stevenson family. One of Akaroa’s many historic buildings, perhaps it’s most photographed.
Admission ticket free -
1
Learn about the geological and natural history of New Zealand. Learn about Polynesian navigation and exploration. Learn about European arrival to New Zealand and the flax trade. Learn about the Brig Elizabeth incident with the first European involvement in intertribal warfare, on the shores of Akaroa harbour which ultimately lead to the Treaty of Waitangi. We will spend time walking along the shoreline and have a chance to take photos.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Learn about the Treaty of Waitangi and the first British Resident to New Zealand. Experience a beautiful Maori church and take photos.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Hear the story of the Race for the South Island between the French and the British including your guide, Marie Haley’s, personal family history as the first French settlers to Akaroa. We can arrange to stop to visit on private tours, but walking access is narrow.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Visit the beautiful French town of Akaroa and visit the many beautiful historic sites. The historic sites are all personally connected to your guides family story, you will be amazed at the depth and breadth of the family history in this stunning little sea side town, and how it is interwoven into New Zealand’s history.
Admission ticket free -
3
Akaroa Heritage Park Stop for a picnic at the beautiful Akaroa Heritage Park, overlooking Akaroa Harbour with stunning sightseeing. This is a wonderful opportunity to build a sense of connection to the New Zealand natural environment, while looking down upon the historic setting that you have just experienced. Included are homemade scones with homemade jam, tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Nature and sightseeing drive. Learn about Hinewai Reserve, the largest private reserve in New Zealand, regenerating native forest through an invasive exotic weed. Drive to the End of the Earth, visiting the stunning Banks Peninsula sea cliffs, learn about the Wildside conservation project that your guide, Marie Haley, managed for eight years, working with her neighbours to protect the natural environment for future generations. Visit the family farmland of your guide and hear the incredible change in land use from forest to farmland in 50 years, and the romantic story of her ancestors. Be inspired by The Seventh Generation Principle, thinking of the seventh generation after you in all your actions, while looking back over the seven generations that came before. You will leave inspired, this tour will have a big impact on your connection to New Zealand. This tour is carbon neutral and future positive.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please let me know of any major health or mobility issues to tailor the tour to your needs.
Show 1 more
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please let me know of any major health or mobility issues to tailor the tour to your needs.
- Some flexibility is required entering and exiting the vehicle, please let me know of any health issues.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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