Friday, February 16, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Akaroa, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

In Akaroa on the South Island of New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean

AKAROA, NEW ZEALAND
A HISTORIC SETTLEMENT NESTLED IN THE HEART OF AN ANCIENT VOLCANO

With pretty painted cottages, overflowing verdant balconies and street names such as Rue Lavaud and Fleur Lane, you could be forgiven for thinking that you have stepped onto the streets of Provence upon arrival in Akaroa. And yet, here you are, in New Zealand’s South Island, less than 50 kilometres from Christchurch.

The French connection stems from 1838 when Captain Jean Francois Langlois acquired the land for six British pounds (and questionable circumstances) from the Maoris. He then travelled home to France to bring back anyone who might want to join him in his new life.

However, during his travels, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed (signatories included two Akaroa Maori chiefs) and New Zealand’s first Governor, Hobson, declared sovereignty over the whole of New Zealand. Thus when Langlois and his settlers arrived back, they were faced with a choice: either return home to France or stay on. They chose the latter, and their legacy prevails.

There are many stunning places on the coast of New Zealand, but none of them can quite hold a candle to Akaroa.
Visually, it is stunning. Surrounded by natural wonders, the town (Maori for “Long Harbour”) stands on a peninsula formed by two volcanic cones, and is self-styled as nature’s playground. Such a moniker might seem superlative for other destinations, but not here: sheep graze almost right to the water’s edge, dolphins are regularly spotted in the many small, secluded bays and Lord of the Rings grandeur stretches as far as the eye can see.

FRENCH CUISINE
Akaroa is famous for its French cuisine and spectacular harbour. Stroll down the Rue Jolie or the Rue Lavaud, two of Akaroa’s main streets, past bistros serving bouillabaisse and escargot, and you will feel as if you just walked through France. Given the French influence, it’s no wonder wine and cheese are such an integrated part of the economy here. Try Barry’s Bay handcrafted cheese or spend some of your day in the beautiful vineyards
and enjoy the local wines.

SIGHTS

• The Giants House
• Akaroa Lighthouse
• Hinewai Reserve
• Akaroa Museum
• Misty Peaks Reserve
• Garden of Tane

Today’s excursion – Christchurch & Avon Punting Difficulty

We discovered the wonderful sights of Christchurch via land and water during this fun-filled punting experience with free time in the city.
Akaroa Harbour, Banks Peninsula, Christchurch, Avon River, Edwardian Punter, Punt-Boat Cruise
We departed the pier for the scenic drive through the beautiful panorama of the Banks Peninsula en route to Christchurch. Upon arrival, we took a short walk to the punting station on the Avon River. After receiving our safety and punting instructions, we embarked on our punt, a flat-bottomed boat, and enjoyed a leisurely cruise along the Avon River. We sat back into the velvet cushions of our boat and took in the exquisite scenery as the Edwardian punter gently glided us down the river.

Rolleston Avenue, Free Time, Independent Shopping and Exploration, Lunch on Your Own
Following our river cruise, we had a short stroll to Rolleston Avenue where we explored this beautifully restored city.

Dinner was in The Restaurant with our friends Christy and Kelly

Check out today’s Chronicle