Discover Akaroa Wildlife Pass: An Unmatched Day of New Zealand Animal Encounters
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with minimal walking required at each location
Overview
Explore Akaroa’s unique mix of marine and land wildlife with the Akaroa Wildlife Pass, featuring friendly alpacas, playful Hector’s dolphins, and rare White-flippered penguins. A perfect day out for animal lovers in New Zealand’s scenic Canterbury region.
Akaroa Wildlife Pass
Ages 2+ • 6.25 hours • Animal lovers, this is for you! 1 pass to tick 3 of your animal bucket list
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the charm of Akaroa Harbour with friendly alpacas at Shamarra, playful Hector’s dolphins on a top-rated cruise, and the unique White-flippered penguins at Pōhatu. This unforgettable adventure combines stunning views, wildlife encounters, and conservation efforts, making it a perfect day out for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The cutest animals are waiting around Akaroa harbour: the soft and friendly Alpaca at Shamarra, the playful Hector’s Dolphins with Black Cat Cruises and the White-flippered penguin, a unique variant of the Little penguins with Pōhatu penguins.
Ages
Ages 2+
Duration
6.25 hours
Shamarra Alpaca
"Full of attitude, seriously cute and very, very photogenic – come and meet our friendly award-winning alpacas.
Just one hour from Christchurch, you’ll find Shamarra Alpaca Farm on the beautiful Banks Peninsula across the harbour from Akaroa. With over 170 grazing alpacas you are guaranteed to make some furry friends while enjoying spectacular sea views. Tour our farm and visit our shop, exclusively stocking our luxurious New Zealand made Shamarra alpaca knitwear.
Black Cat Cruises
"Voted the number 1 wildlife activity in New Zealand, your award winning 2-hour nature cruise is packed with highlights including the rare, NZ native dolphin – the Hector’s dolphin, as well as seals, penguins and many coastal sea birds.
You’ll discover this wonderful wildlife as you cruise through the belly of an extinct volcanic crater and hear about Akaroa’s fascinating past. We also offer a Hector’s dolphin guarantee; if you don’t see any dolphins you can cruise again for free.
Pōhatu Penguins
Step in our 4WD minibus and discover the Wildside of Banks peninsula, learn about the history of the area while standing on the edge of Akaroa volcano crater rim at 700 meters altitude. Visit the largest colony of Little penguins on mainland New Zealand and see them up close and personal as we monitor nesting sites and you learn, participate and help supporting 30+ years of conservation effort.
Adventure Tips
Bring binoculars for marine life viewing
Enhance your dolphin and penguin spotting experience by bringing binoculars to see distant wildlife clearly on the harbor cruise.
Wear layered clothing
Weather by the sea can shift quickly – dress in layers to stay comfortable on both the farm and the boat cruise.
Book in advance during peak season
Akaroa is popular in summer months; secure your pass early to guarantee availability.
Check tide times for the best penguin viewing
Visit Pōhatu when tides and light are favorable for penguin activity and visibility.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hector's dolphins
- White-flippered penguins
History
Akaroa was established as a French settlement in 1840, which influences its unique local culture and architecture.
Conservation
The region prioritizes sustainable tourism and wildlife protection, supporting ongoing efforts to preserve endangered species and habitats.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Akaroa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects you from unpredictable coastal weather during the boat cruise and outdoor visits.
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for exploring the farm and nature reserve comfortably over uneven terrain.
Binoculars
Useful for spotting dolphins and penguins from a distance during the cruise and reserve visit.
Sunhat and sunscreen
Necessary for sun protection when outdoors, especially during the harbor cruise and farm visit.
summer specific