Step into Duvauchelle’s regenerating forests and lavender fields on a two-hour Arataki Conservation tour with Akaroa Lavender. Discover the farm’s remarkable ecosystem revival and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea overlooking Akaroa Harbour.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for those comfortable with moderate walking over uneven ground including gentle slopes.
Wildlife
History
Akaroa Lavender’s land has shifted from pastoral paddocks back to native forest, reflecting a local commitment to ecological restoration and Māori cultural values of living in harmony with the whenua.
Conservation
The farm’s reforestation effort integrates sustainable forestry with native species recovery, aiming to protect the mauri (life force) of the land while supporting environmental education.
Akaroa Lavender
Step into Duvauchelle’s regenerating forests and lavender fields on a two-hour Arataki Conservation tour with Akaroa Lavender. Discover the farm’s remarkable ecosystem revival and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea overlooking Akaroa Harbour.
Akaroa Lavender is a lavender farm located in Duvauchelle on Banks Peninsula in Canterbury. The farm offers guided experiences that combine lavender cultivation, local history, and hands-on conservation education. Two signature experiences are available: Arataki Conservation, a two-hour guided tour that walks through regenerating forests and lavender fields with sweeping views of Akaroa Harbour and concludes with a traditional afternoon tea; and Arataki Lavender, a guided tour through over 5,000 vibrant lavender plants that covers the farm’s history, includes a tasting of the signature Lavender Lavenade, and points out scenic picnic spots.
Guides describe plant varieties, restoration methods, and the role of native species in the landscape while moving along established tracks and stopping at viewpoints. The conservation-focused content explains efforts to restore parts of the property toward pre-European vegetation and highlights how lavender and native planting are managed together. Photography-friendly vantage points offer panoramic vistas of Akaroa Harbour and the surrounding peninsula.
Akaroa Lavender welcomes day visitors and small groups seeking an immersive botanical and conservation experience. Each guided visit combines walking with restful stops at viewpoints and picnic areas, and the format emphasizes education, safe access to tracks, and locally made refreshments. As a featured destination on The Adventure Collective, Akaroa Lavender is presented as a hands-on option for travelers interested in plants, landscape restoration, and scenic harbour views.
Bookings and current availability are listed on The Adventure Collective entry for Akaroa Lavender.
Location
Duvauchelle, Canterbury
Near Akaroa Harbour and Banks Peninsula
Lavender Plants
5,000+
Extensive fields of vibrant lavender
Tour Length
2 hours
Arataki Conservation guided duration
Tours Offered
2 experiences
Guided lavender and conservation tours
Check availability on The Adventure Collective and secure a spot on a guided lavender or conservation walk to experience the farm firsthand.
Wear sturdy footwear
Terrain can be uneven and include rabbit holes; appropriate footwear will keep you steady.
Stay hydrated
Bring water to stay comfortable during the two-hour walk, especially in warmer weather.
Follow guide instructions
For safety, avoid touching electric fences, traps, or native stinging plants during the tour.
Arrive early
Arrive 5 minutes before the tour start time at 38 Pawsons Valley Road to ensure a timely departure.
Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
Provides support and traction on uneven terrain and over rabbit holes.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the two-hour walk through forest and field.
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protects from sun exposure, especially on open sections with harbor views.
summer
Light rain jacket
Helpful for unexpected showers or wind on exposed parts of the trail.
spring|fall|winter