Must-see stops between Christchurch and Akaroa

There’s no better way to explore the road trip between Christchurch and Akaroa than in a Britz campervan. Think of it as your base on wheels – complete with a cosy bed, onboard kitchen, and all the essentials you need for a road trip done right. 

One of the best things about travelling in a campervan is the freedom it gives you. Want to pull over at a quiet bay for lunch? No problem. Fancy a coffee with a view at sunrise? Easy. With everything you need right there, you can stop wherever the mood takes you and enjoy the journey at your own pace. 

It’s all about slowing down and making the most of every moment – discovering hidden gems, taking in scenic views, and swapping the usual rush for a more relaxed way to travel. It’s the kind of freedom that makes road trips like this one truly special. 

Christchurch to Akaroa route overview

• Total distance: 89 km 

• Estimated drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes (without stops) 

• Ideal trip duration: 5 days – giving you plenty of time to explore Christchurch, Akaroa, and all the great stops along the way. You may also like to plan for an overnight stay in Little River.   

This short but stunning drive takes you from the vibrant city of Christchurch through rolling hills, past charming towns, and into the heart of Banks Peninsula. As you wind your way towards Akaroa, you’ll be treated to ever-changing views – from lush farmland to the sparkling waters of bays and harbours. 

The route is full of places to slow down and soak it all in, whether that’s grabbing a bite to eat in Little River, snapping photos at a scenic lookout, or fossicking on the beach. It’s a drive that proves that, often, the best memories are made when you take your time. 

Where to stop between Christchurch and Akaroa

Whether you’re into nature, local history, or good food, there’s something for everyone on the road trip from Christchurch to Akaroa! 

Things to do in Christchurch

Kick off your trip with a mix of history, culture, and vibrant outdoor spaces in Christchurch. Known as the Garden City, it’s the perfect place to get into road trip mode before heading out towards the Banks Peninsula. 

• Hagley Park and Botanic Gardens – Stretch your legs with a stroll through Hagley Park or wander the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. It’s a peaceful spot right in the city, filled with seasonal blooms, ancient trees, and shaded pathways. 

• Canterbury Museum – Step back in time at Canterbury Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits, including artefacts from early Māori culture and displays on Antarctic exploration. 

• Christchurch Tram – Hop on the iconic Christchurch Tram for a unique way to explore the central city. The hop-on, hop-off service lets you visit key sights, including Cathedral Square and the vibrant Arts Centre. 

• Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū – If you’re into art and design, don’t miss this striking gallery. With free entry, it’s home to impressive collections of local and international works. 

• Riverside Market – Before you hit the road, stock up on local produce, snacks, and treats at the Christchurch Riverside Market. With fresh baked goods, artisan cheeses, and delicious coffee, it’s a great spot to grab supplies for the journey ahead. 

Halswell Quarry Park

Just a 20-minute drive from central Christchurch, Halswell Quarry Park is a fantastic first stop on your road trip to Akaroa. Once a working quarry, it’s now a mix of walking trails, wide-open spaces, and a bit of local history – all wrapped up in one easy stop. 

If you’re keen to explore, the Quarry Rim Track is a must. It’s an easy 30-minute walk with views over the park and surrounding hills. For something more relaxed, wander through the sister city gardens – beautifully landscaped spaces celebrating Christchurch’s international connections, like Kurashiki in Japan and Adelaide in Australia. 

History fans will love the little nods to the quarry’s past, with old machinery, stone remnants, and info panels dotted around. You’ll get a feel for how Halswell stone helped shape Christchurch’s buildings back in the day. 

How long to spend: Allow 1–2 hours to explore, depending on how much walking you’d like to do. It’s an easy stop to fit into your day and offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and relaxation. 

Tai Tapu Village

Just 15 minutes down the road from Christchurch, Tai Tapu Village is an easy and rewarding stop. Your first port of call? The Store at Tai Tapu. Part café, part local institution, it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee and a bite to eat. Think cabinet treats, hearty lunches, and good strong coffee – all served up in a warm, rustic setting. If the weather’s good, grab a seat outside and enjoy the laid-back country feel. 

For a unique dose of art and nature, head over to the Tai Tapu Sculpture Garden. Located just a short drive from the village on Cossars Road, this evolving garden blends contemporary sculpture with native regeneration. The garden showcases over 100 sculptures, including large-scale and smaller works crafted from stone, steel, bronze, and wood. While it’s open year-round by appointment, their main event is the Annual Autumn Exhibition held each March.  

How long to spend: Around 1–1.5 hours should give you enough time to enjoy a coffee, explore the garden, and snap a few photos along the way. 

Birdlings Flat 

About 40 minutes from Christchurch, Birdlings Flat is a unique stop that offers dramatic coastal views and a slice of local history. This rugged beach, located at the southern end of Kaitōrete Spit, is known for its pebbled shores and wild, windswept beauty – a stark contrast to the usual sandy beaches you might expect. 

Birdlings Flat is famous for its gemstone hunting. The pebbles here often hide treasures like agates, jasper, and other semi-precious stones. Just up the road, stop by the Birdling Flat Gemstone and Fossil Museum. This small, family-run museum is a real hidden gem (no pun intended) and showcases an impressive collection of locally found stones, fossils, and minerals. It’s free to visit, but donations are always appreciated to support its upkeep. 

The beach itself isn’t suitable for swimming due to strong currents, but it’s a fantastic place for a quick walk, some fresh sea air, and panoramic views out to the Pacific Ocean. 

How long to spend: Around 1.5 hours should be plenty of time to explore the museum, take a walk along the beach, and enjoy the rugged scenery. 

Little River

About an hour from Christchurch, the tiny township of Little River is a must-stop on your way to Akaroa. Nestled at the foot of the Banks Peninsula, this small, creative hub is the perfect mix of good food, local art, and easy outdoor exploring. 

Start your visit at the Little River Gallery, a favourite with travellers and locals alike. This vibrant space showcases contemporary New Zealand art, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, often with a focus on Canterbury’s natural surroundings. It’s a great spot to pick up a unique piece to take home or simply soak up the local creativity. 

Next door, grab a coffee and bite to eat at the Little River Café & Store. Their menu is full of fresh, seasonal options, and the cabinet is packed with treats perfect for a quick refuel. Sit under the trees with a flat white or take your snacks to go – either way, it’s a must-visit. 

If you’re here on a Sunday, don’t miss the Little River Farmers’ Market. Held near the community centre, the market is a treasure trove of local produce, homemade jams, baked goods, and artisan crafts – a great place to stock up for the rest of your trip. 

For those who love a bit of outdoor time, the Little River Rail Trail is a scenic option. This easy cycling and walking track follows the path of an old railway line through wetlands, farmland, and native bush, with plenty of photo-worthy views along the way. 

How long to spend: With so much to see and do here, you may like to break up the trip with an overnight stay the night at the Little River Campground. This laid-back, family-friendly spot offers riverside camping surrounded by birdsong and native bush. With walking trails, a herb garden, and even friendly eels to feed, it’s a slice of nostalgic Kiwi camping. 

Hilltop Lookout  

As you wind your way up the road towards Akaroa, plan a stop at the Hilltop Lookout. About 15 minutes past Little River, this spot sits high on the ridge of the Banks Peninsula. Pull into the designated parking area and prepare to be wowed by the sweeping panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour and the surrounding hills. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and soak it all in. 

How long to spend:  Plan for around 15–20 minutes to enjoy the scenery and snap a few photos.  

Barrys Bay Cheese

Around 15 minutes before you reach Akaroa, Barrys Bay Cheese has been handcrafting traditional cheeses since 1895, using fresh, local Banks Peninsula milk. 

When you arrive, head into the factory shop where you can watch the cheese-making process through the viewing windows. It’s fascinating to see the skill and care that goes into each wheel and block of cheese – all still made with the same time-honoured techniques. 

Of course, the real highlight is tasting the cheese. Barrys Bay offers an incredible selection, from creamy Havarti and rich Cheddar to the award-winning Peninsula Blue. It’s the perfect chance to pick up a few varieties for a picnic lunch or snacks later in the day. Pair your cheese with crackers or local chutney from their store for a real treat. 

How long to spend: Plan for around 20-30 minutes to browse, sample, and shop.  

Things to do in Akaroa

Sitting on the edge of Akaroa Harbour, this historic French-inspired village is packed with things to see and do. Whether you’re into wildlife encounters, local history, or delicious food, Akaroa is the kind of place where you can easily spend a few days exploring. 

• Explore the village: Wander along the waterfront and through Akaroa’s charming streets, lined with heritage cottages, boutique shops, and cafés. Stop by the local galleries or treat yourself to an ice cream as you take in the harbour views. 

• Akaroa Harbour cruises: Akaroa is famous for its marine life, and a harbour cruise is the best way to experience it. Jump on a boat tour to spot Hector’s dolphins – the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin – as well as seals, penguins, and seabirds. Many tours also share the area’s volcanic history and Māori legends along the way. 

• The Giant’s House: For something quirky and unforgettable, visit The Giant’s House, a historic villa surrounded by vibrant mosaic sculptures and terraced gardens. It’s a visual feast of colour and creativity, perfect for photos and a relaxed wander. 

• Akaroa Museum: Dive into the town’s rich past at the Akaroa Museum. Learn about its French and British settlement history, with artefacts and displays that tell the story of how Akaroa became the only French settlement in New Zealand. 

• Walking tracks: If you’re keen to stretch your legs, there are plenty of walking options around Akaroa. The Banks Peninsula Track offers spectacular coastal views, while shorter walks like the Garden of Tane are ideal for a peaceful stroll among native trees. 

• Food and wine: Akaroa is a foodie’s dream. Stop by the waterfront restaurants and cafés for locally caught seafood, fresh produce, and French-inspired dishes.  

• Akaroa Lighthouse: Head to the historic Akaroa Lighthouse, relocated to the harbour’s edge. It’s a short walk and makes for great photos, especially during golden hour.