If you need to know anything about the ports of call on your cruise, where the ship berths, how you find your guide and tour vehicle, what transport options there are, then this page is where you need to look.

If you have any information that you think would be useful for fellow passengers please let us know and we will try and incorporate it.  If you notice any errors or omissions please advise us.

General Information

Akaroa is a small town situated on the Akaroa Peninsular, approximately 90 minutes drive from Christchurch.  Only a limited number of ships visit Akaroa each season as there is no port facility.  Ships moor ofshore in the large and sheltered harbour, passengers are taken to the shore by ships tenders.

Akaroa has a distinct french character, in the early 1800's it was the french who first settled this area. This outpost of the French empire was however quickly abandoned as the British arrived to expel the original european visitors, over concerns the French wanted to annex New Zealand for themselves.

The town still has many references to these early french visitors, check out some of the street names and buildings.  Today the local inhabitants maintain this Gallic charm.  

Find your guide/tour

When you arrive at the wharf by ships tender, look out for the Mount Classics guides with your name board with either your group name or the tour designator, eg T5.    They will be waiting close to the wharf.

Bus transport

There are no buses availble in Akaroa, but it is a small settlement and you can easily take a short walk into the centre of the town, which is mainly situated along the edge of the harbour.

Ship Shuttle Service

Note that there is no shuttle service offered at this port by the cruise ships.

Taxis

Taxis are in very short supply in Akaroa.
Taxis in New Zealand are strictly regulated, like all passenger transport, and can usually be found close to the ship in their designated ranks. Taxis can not refuse a fare if asked and can not charge more than the fee shown on the taxi meter which must be switched on once the journey begins. Some taxis also accept payment by credit card, but not all, so its best to check before staring the journey.  If you need a special mobility taxi [suitable for wheel chair users] then some Taxi Companies have these available. 

Information office

There is a small Visitor Information office [ I-Site] located in Akaroa.  This office has all the information you need on activities, and transport, accommodation etc.

Telephone Info

The emergency number in New Zealand is 111 [though 911 also works].  The dialing code for international calls is 00, followed by the country code.  The local calling code is 03.  If you are calling a local number in Akaroa via mobile you will always need to start with this code.  If using a payphone, just dial the actual number. 

Shopping

There are a good number of small souvenier and boutique style shops in Akaroa.

Walks

Enjoy a walk into town from the wharf or along the waterfront, the information office can provide details of longer walks.