Adventure Collective
Wildlife & Nature Adventure at Akaroa Wildlife Passes - Christchurch

Wildlife & Nature Adventure at Akaroa Wildlife Passes

Akaroaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, including children and elderly

Overview

Discover the wildlife of Akaroa Harbour with boat cruises, alpacas, and rare penguins. Perfect for family fun and nature lovers seeking authentic New Zealand encounters.

Wildlife
Akaroa, Canterbury

Akaroa Wildlife Family Passes

6.25 hours • Animal lovers, this is the package for you.Tick 3 of your animal bucket list in one go

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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 Pohatu. This unforgettable adventure combines stunning views, wildlife encounters, and conservation efforts, making it a perfect outing 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 Pohatu 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.

Pohatu 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

Enhance wildlife viewing by bringing binoculars for better closer looks at dolphins and penguins.

Dress for the weather

Layer clothing as weather can vary quickly on the water and in rural areas.

Book in advance

Secure your spot early for boat cruises and penguin encounters, especially during peak season.

Respect wildlife

Maintain a respectful distance and avoid sudden movements around animals.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Little blue penguins

History

Akaroa's harbor was once a French settlement, and its cultural history enriches the natural experience.

Conservation

Efforts focus on protecting native species and their habitats through active conservation programs.

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Adventure Hotspots in Christchurch

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Binoculars

Essential

Critical for observing distant wildlife comfortably and clearly.

Weather-appropriate clothing

Essential

Preparedness for variable weather ensures a comfortable trip.

Camera

Capture memories of dolphins, penguins, and scenic views.

Sun protection

Protection from sun exposure during boat rides.