The Giants House is a bed and breakfast with unique eclectic gardens, featuring a collection of whimsical mosaic sculptures by the local artist Josie Martin. The gardens are essentially one giant artwork with intricate collages of mirrors, tiles and broken china that cascade down a hillside above Akaroa. Visitors can expect to find many surprising nooks and crannies throughout the garden reminiscent of Gaudi and Miro's styles.
I accompanied close friends to this attraction, not knowing much - if anything - about it. I was pleasantly surprised. The garden had very clearly been a labour of love for the artist, who had turned a functional fruit and vegetable garden into a gorgeous spectacle of colour and wonder. This is an absolute treasure and well worth the nominal entry fee.
T E Dorward — Google review
What a beautiful, lovely place to visit full of art works, flowers and nicely laid out landscapes. We had a great time. The house is situated up the hill and there is no parking on-site but you can easily find the roadside parking near the house. The entry fee allowed you to visit the garden and gallery but not include the visit in the house unless you are in group visit with pre-arranged. Having said that there are plenty to look around, inspire and take photos. There is small cafe which serves drinks and cakes/ scones etc. Overall we had a good time. Please make sure you bring your camera/ phone as there are plenty of photo opportunities. Highly recommended place to visit. Thanks Jose - the artist for her amazing work!
ATGC — Google review
The Giants House honestly has to be seen to be believed. Photos don't do it justice.
The day that we were in Akaroa, it was raining (not entirely ideal for visiting a garden of mosaic paths), but I was determined to visit the gardens here, so I put on a poncho and with a warning about being careful on the paths in the wet off we went.
I think the rain and the bit of fog that was hanging around added some ambience (although I have no doubt they are spectacular in the sunshine) and don't regret the decision at all.
The amount of work and hours (!!) that have gone into these artworks just blows my mind.
If you are in this part of the world it's a must do experience in my opinion. If you're not in this part of the world, it's a pretty good reason to plan a trip!
Melissa Adams — Google review
Grate place to visit with family and friends. all the sculptures made with colourful marble pieces. $35 per person i think it’s worth. it’s like another world on earth 🥰. they have one cafe where you can order food and enjoy it as well .
Reet Kaur — Google review
More than your average garden.
Very drawn to the fine sparkling details that filled our experience with connection and love. So thrilled to have experienced this place for the first time with my dear ones. A sweet and precious memory. One I will always remember.
Stacey Awhitu — Google review
$20+ per adult made me think twice, but absolutely well worth the entry fee. Spent an amazing 3 hours here, eyes ever watchful at the extravaganza of opulent artwork. In one word, " UPLIFTING". Reminded me of Gaudi's work in Barcelona.
Who would have imagined that it was on OUR doorstep in Akaroa.
Marie Ashton — Google review
Absolutely beautiful garden, Josie has done an incredible job of creating such a wonderful space. On a nice calm sunny day the atmosphere is so tranquil, highly recommend a visit.
Courtney Smuts-Kennedy — Google review
I was truly captivated by the incredible artistry showcased at the Giant House in Akaroa. The meticulous construction using a myriad of glass and ceramic pieces resulted in a mesmerizing array of sculptures and mosaics that adorned the property. The visual experience was undoubtedly delightful.
Yet, I must admit that our overall impression was somewhat tainted by the considerably high entrance fee for the attraction. Regrettably, this feeling was amplified by the fact that visitors were not granted access to the interior of the house, which seemed to fall outside the scope of the attraction. While the artistic exterior was undoubtedly enchanting, the mismatch between the cost and the overall experience was a bit 🤷♀️
P.S. we just spent less than 30mins inside.
Ruth Peliño — Google review
This is often described as the happiest garden in the world, it’s easy to see how one might think that! Incredible mosaic art pieces accompany a beautiful landscape that sweeps up the hillside behind the Victorian home.
Karl Gercens — Google review
It is a Garden of International Significance, populated by quirky mosaic tile sculptures that fuel my childlike sense of wonder. My wife was blown away by the level of detail. It’s a delightful way to spend an hour or two. Be warned: it’s located up a steep driveway on a steep hill.
John Hunter — Google review
Well worth a visit 👍😀. An amazing piece of artwork. We were there for at least three hours looking at the gardens, mosaics and having a bite to eat while watching people's face as they lit up. Take your time and enjoy what has been created 👍😀
Michael Connell — Google review
My experience here was lovely. Lots of beautiful picture opportunities and awesome views from the top of the garden. Coming to Akaroa for this is totally worth it and easy to do from Christchurch. I totally recommend checking it out and bringing your camera with you!
Leoreo — Google review
Great experience. A must do when visiting Akaroa. NZ
Josie is such a talented artist you will blown away with all her hard work.
Take in the views sit back and relax.
Sandra Stapleton — Google review
Worth the visit! So much to discover is Josie Martin's beautiful garden. Thank you for sharing your creation with the world!
Cali Q — Google review
Brilliant experience. Lovely gardens and fantastic sculptures that have clearly taken a long time to create. Entrance fee was reasonable. Would definitely recommend.
Vinnie Smith — Google review
Amazing beautifully maintained gardens with incredible mosaic work that is out of this world. Must have taken years of patient detailed work to complete this. Note while it is amazing it is not cheap - $25 per adult. But still worth it. Also there is no parking up the driveway. You need to park on the road and walk up.
Ben Fernandez — Google review
I'm amazed at how great this place is. Not cheap to visit
35 dollars an adult but well worth it. Everything I looked back I saw something I hadn't seen before. What an imagination this lady has. And so well looked after. If you have walking problems just take your time as there is lots of steps. Also able to be dropped at the top of driveway as it's quite steep.
Bronwyn Yarrall — Google review
We were lucky enough to visit the Giants House after closing to get photos with our bridal party. The photos turned out absolutely stunning due to all the colour and wonderful art. Josie was a delight to speak with and we were lucky enough to see her when we were leaving. Well worth a visit when you are in Akaroa.
Photos in this review were taken by Robin and Andie.
Jen Woollard — Google review
I thought initially it was a lot to pay, but after going through I absolutely recommend seeing this amazing garden of art, flora and fauna. Nothing like I have ever seen before. Loved it. Saw in February which was a great time for flowers.
Linda Roper — Google review
I'm not much of an art lover, but you can see how much time, patience and creativity has gone into building such an exquisite garden. It's at the top of a steep driveway and lots of stairs throughout so be prepared. However there is plenty of seating available throughout the garden. Cafe & toilets available on site. Entry fee seems a bit expensive for what it is. No public access to the giants house which was a little disappointing but understandable as the artist lives on site. Definitely worth a visit if you're an art/garden lover. Overall a lovely place to visit.
Rachael — Google review
A must....let me say that again...
A MUST do. The creativeness of this beautiful soul is very inspiring.
Diamonds produced on a budget.
🙏💖🙏
Hinewai Reserve is a substantial and peaceful nature sanctuary that showcases hiking paths, waterfalls, and picturesque ocean vistas. This hidden treasure is the outcome of superior preservation efforts and functions as a personal nature reserve available to the public for a minor contribution. It provides an insight into what Banks Peninsula foliage would have appeared like prior to human occupancy and agriculture becoming widespread. The entire circuit from the beach up to the summit of the valley can be arduous but rewarding.
Thoroughly enjoyed my visit at Hinewai. Had been planning to visit after watching the very inspiring documentary fools and dreamers, it was almost surreal to visit the place in person, and to spend a whole day here.
Meeting Hugh was another plus, he is such a lovely genuine guy.
I recommend for all, there are walks for everyone here.
el herriot — Google review
Peacefull and love the always smilling owner who riding his bike :)
Martin Králík — Google review
Lovely place. Incredible nature restauration work and tracks maintainance. Incredible what love for nature can do!
Bru Mas Ribera — Google review
Absolutely stunning even on a gloomy day. It’s easy to see how much care and dedication have been put into establishing the reserve. Trails were very well marked, walking times seemed pretty accurate, and delicious spring water to enjoy along the way. Hugh also very kindly took a break from his task to suggest a few trail options for me based on the time I had to explore, which was much appreciated! Clean toilets and maps available, too.
Genevieve McKenzie — Google review
It’s been such a privilege to watch Hinewai Reserve grow over my lifetime, both in hectares protected and in species diversity and abundance. And such a privilege to know Hugh Wilson and watch his work. This is a must visit place for locals and visitors alike.
The Seventh Generation (Tours Akaroa New Zealand) — Google review
Very beautiful area. We did a relatively short loop (around 4 km), stunning views and lots of birds. The distance wasn't too long but it was still challenging. Some parts are very steep and slippery, sturdy hiking boots are necessary. Routes are well signposted and well-maintained, also the information leaflet and map provided are very helpful. Very thankful to the owners to make the reserve accessible for the public for free, even offering toilet acces. Definitely deserves a donation.
Sten Hagen — Google review
Such a lovely place to visit.
The first waterfall is about 20mins from the carpark. You start off walking downhill. Suitable for toddlers though sturdy waterproof boots are needed.
Second waterfall, Hinewai falls is aboit 20-30mins from the first waterfall.
Just a beautiful area.
Andy C — Google review
We walked the tracks in August 2017 after a couple of weeks of rain and a snow. The day was warm and a northwester was blowing up high but most of the track was protected from the wind so we had an enjoyable afternoon. The tracks were "damp" under foot but not sloppy wet but we did wear tramping boots so had no issues.
Pete the Pirate — Google review
Full credit to the kaitiaki of this reserve - what a massive effort he has put into caring for and maintaining this stunning natural native area! Fantastic hiking reserve full of NZ natives and waterfalls. Love the way he has labelled the trees with their proper Maori names and explained the history of the area. A lot of work put in restoring washed out rivers etc and rebuilding bridges - so impressive. Nga Mihi Kaitiaki, your hard mahi is appreciated and respected by us nature lovers who appreciate the opportunity to walk through this stunning bush area with similar surroundings to the Stewart Island bush in places.
Stevie — Google review
Lovely place, reminds me of the barrier! Best place on Banks.
Hone Nathan — Google review
Amazing, a little known gem that is the product of a lot of top notch conservation work. A private nature reserve that is open to the public for a small donation. A look into the way Banks Peninsula bush would've once looked prior to widespread human habitation and farming. Fitness will likely be tested on the full loop, as you walk back from the beach to the top of valley. Keep the eyes open for bellbirds and other natives which have taken up residence! I was very happy that I brought my camera with me :)
Dafydd Williams — Google review
amazing and inspiring place. Definitely check out the doco "fools and dreamers" on YouTube. We met Hugh and he is a warm, kind and friendly soul. it is awesome what he and his team have done here!!
The Main Wharf in Akaroa offers stunning vistas of the area, surrounded by hills and water, making it a picturesque spot for visitors. The town's French heritage is evident in its charming streets and old buildings, creating an authentic atmosphere. While it can get breezy at times, the wharf is a popular destination with plenty of shops and cafes to explore. Visitors can enjoy breakfast or lunch at the Peninsula General Store or end their day with drinks at the trendy HarBar Beachfront Cafe.
It is obviously one of main tourist destinations in Akaroa, so expect to see a lot of people in this area. However, I would say visiting Akaroa is incomplete without a quick tour to this place. The scenery is very beautiful, and the vibe is great. It was really a hot day when I visited as it is mid summer, but sometime in the spring or autumn could be better I guess. See pictures for more details.
Masrizal Mahmud — Google review
Swimming with dolphins, Black Cats cruise are there. Peer is nice and relaxing. Quite a photogenic view is there around. Good for photos. U can visit there for free but anything beyond is on pay unless u shoot photos. U may travel with Black Cats cruise or else swim with dolphins which are paid activities.
nirosh gamage — Google review
Great vistas of the Akaroa area from the main wharf. Can be a bit breezy though. Lots of shops around and old buildings to look at. Being the most French town in New Zealand as settled by French settlers in the 19th century, you would be amiss thinking that this is not quite real. Great place to visit and plenty of cafes for a feed. For bonus points, brush up on your French words and keep an eye on the street signs.
Only down side is the rules on dogs at the beach. If your dog loves the water in summer, stop off at Robinsons bay before or after visiting Akaroa on a hot summer day. Theres a little rest stop right next to the ocean for those dogs who love a unrestricted dip.
Simon nicholson — Google review
Just a lovely stop over and exploring the south island, want to go back, there's a lovely jewelry shop and got to book in for the dolphin boat experience. Next time!
Misty Martin — Google review
"If you're seeking a taste of French charm in New Zealand, Akaroa is the place to be! Immerse yourself in the clear waters and blue skies for a healing experience like no other."
Andy Kwon — Google review
It had such nice view and ambiance. Stores are very accessible and you can just have your picnic at the venue(not at the wharf of course).
genilledwight — Google review
Relaxing views surrounded by wharf.
Can take a boat here and see dolphin and penguins.
Make sure the boat sails before you arrive.
Juanita Huang — Google review
Beautiful view from the end. We got ice cream and sat on the benches at the end and watched the sunset.
Marcoline Johnson — Google review
Nice wide wharf with multiple shops, fisherman and tourists. Gives you a great view of the harbour and Akaroa behind you. Surprisingly long wharf too! Perfect for people with children or those with disabilities, as it’s easy to get from one side to the other.
Trentyz — Google review
Great day! Saw the Hector's dolphins, little blue penguins, and the seals. The crew was great, as was our spotter dog, Albie.
Laura Hill — Google review
Nice little wharf with incredible views. There is a little Fish and Chips kiosk at the end of the shops, AMAZINGLY good, hands down one of the best fish and chips I have ever had!
Nayt Grochowski — Google review
The view is stunning. I really want to go again🥰🥰 nice weather + beach = perfect holiday 🤣🤣
xuan yui lim — Google review
Akaroa is a little village; you will find nice beaches if you drive around the peninsula.
Caterina Mazzucato — Google review
Very nice place yesterday the climate was excellent enjoyed the location nice lake amidst green hill top and joining the sea not to miss this who ever not able to go Milford sound at least they should go here for the cruise nice 2 hrs
thoyakkat mahesh — Google review
Lovely tourist destination here in the South Island of New Zealand. Surrounded by hills and water, this place looks beautiful especially during sunsets. Has a small park like area nearby and has benches to marvel at the stunning nature. There are facilities to enjoy whale and dolphin watching too. All in all, a must visit place in South Island.
Really lovely walk. Nice cool forest with birdlife, plenty of signage for the tracks, and spectacular lookouts (especially lovers lookout!). Easy to go for a quick wander or spend a longer time wandering the different tracks. I like that a number of trees are labelled with their common and scientific names. I also like that there signs at the entrance explaining Māori and French aspects of the garden. Definitely recommend checking this out if you're in Akaroa
Amelia Hamlin — Google review
This is one of the landmarks of Akaroa, so worth a visit for anyone who loves nature. It has tracks within it and all covered by a lot of old and tall trees. There are also some play areas for kids snd family to have picnic. Overal, I would say it looks more like a forest than a garden, especially if compared with Christchurch botanical garden or other local gardens in the area.
Masrizal Mahmud — Google review
Great tree canopy with lots of birdlife. Track can be a little steep.
James Wenn — Google review
Amazing place. Full of wonderful forest and bird life. Easy walking with easy to follow paths and great views. When dry, jandals are ok.
Megan Andrews — Google review
So surprised by this wonderful space
An oasis of calm in very busy Akaroa
Kevin Foulsham — Google review
Peaceful stroll amongst the trees, perfect place to escape the midday sun. The lookout point gives a lovely view of the bay and wharf.
Shay Zhang — Google review
Brilliant little spot with nice walks historic cemeteries and a pretty cool playground. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Akaroa.
Note you can do a good loop walk from the pier to the lighthouse up through the cemeteries past the playground and back to the pier.
Frank Uncle — Google review
Absolutely wonderful spot in the middle of Akaroa! lots of native trees and plants, and some introduced with labels etc. Fairly dense bush and the smell is fantastic! highly recommend the walks, can loop around within an hour, great place to de-stress and enjoy what nature has to offer. beautiful birds and the forest of Tane Mahuta!
Stunning and well maintained memorial with beautiful garden surrounding it. Very easy access as it is located on the main street just next to a crowded beach, playground, and wharf. It is a must see monument to take a look at while in the area. A good tribute to those soldiers. See my photos for details.
Masrizal Mahmud — Google review
U can visit here for free. It is in memory for the lives lost during world war 1. In a center of a garden. Public toilet is next to the memorial. Closer to cafes around. Palm trees are there cornering the memorial. Multiple access, but I believe the easiest could be from the main road. U may street park.
nirosh gamage — Google review
Very nice memorial
Jesse Taylor — Google review
Open to public, beside toilets, some seats and grass for picnics
Daniel McGregor — Google review
The surroundings have a couple of good spots to capture nice photos.
Vincent 17 — Google review
A peaceful space to let us memorize the war and soldiers died during the war. The building is quite great and the place is quite neat. Take a while to seat on the bench for resting and remembering the lessons from the catastrophe. This is a remarkable landmark of Akaroa.
Siegfried Tsai — Google review
Banks Peninsula / Arakoa War Memorial in Akaroa
Visited on 1/2/2019
This War Memoriel is dedicated to the Peninsula young men who lost their lives in World War I, World War Ii and African War.
The memorial sits in the centre of an attractive garden, guarded by tall palms, and it is short walk from the beach.
Sin Fong Chan — Google review
Special memorial .
Can find some useful information about Akaroa here.
There are some public toilets as well.
Juanita Huang — Google review
Befitting memorial for all of them who offered their lives so that we can enjoy the freedom we have today.🥰
H M — Google review
You can see beautiful flowers in the garden here if you go inside. Lovely🥰
Rubina G.C — Google review
Great stone monument laid by the New Zealand Governer General.
List of names of people who fought in world war 2, the great war, and the south African war.
Great stop for wine lovers, a tiny family run vineyard and winery where they hand pick and craft their own organically produced wines. The Chardonnay was particularly impressive (only 3 barrels made). They also serve a small food platter of locally sourced salamis, cheeses, olives and locally made bread. Well worth a stop.
Philip Green — Google review
Our group of 6 had a great arvo chatting and sampling wines with the new owners. What an interesting visit with these friendly wine makers. Have enjoyed our purchases these past couple of weeks. We will be back.
Kerry Daniel — Google review
We had the most wonderful stay with our family friends Carolyn and Simon. Staying in the wagon amongst the scenic and peaceful vineyard was a highlight of our 5 weeks in NZ. Absolutely stunning sunrise view over the sea from our bed. Also perfect star gazing from the decking. We had a fantastic wine tasting with Simon and Carolyn learning about the wine but also about their vineyard story too. Both exceptional hosts. We hope to be back at some point in the future, thank you both very much. Sophie & Fiona
Sophie “SB” Benson — Google review
Super friendly staff, made my partner and I feel very welcomed, stunning grounds to relax and enjoy the wine tasting, staff were happy to spend time chatting with us about the wine, we arrived an hour before they closed but said we could take our time and it was no problem if we stayed a 5-10 minutes after closed to finish our drinks and food, the platter and wines were absolutely delicious so we brought some bottles to take with us :)
would definitely recommend taking a trip here and we will be back in the future for sure!!
Megan E — Google review
Stopped in for a glass of wine but stayed and sampled their range of delicious wines. This is a place worth visiting. the plans for future live music will also be a drawcord. The outside areas of seating is apealing as is their on-site accommodation.
Lesley Barker — Google review
My partner and I had a wonderful time at the French Peak Vineyard. Simon and Carolyn were lovely hosts, not your typical vineyard experience, very personal and engaged. It was great to see the local engagement and focus on organic production. We were made to taste four gorgeous wines (one of which we ended up taking with us) alongside an amazing cheese and meat platter that paired perfectly. Simon gave us a tour of the beautiful property and we'll definitely be coming back and staying at one of their accommodations. It was also great meeting their cat :) Couldn't have asked for a better evening with such great conversation!
Tarini Sharma — Google review
We popped in here and had a lovely afternoon! Was a beautiful place with great service. The wine tasting was very nice and our platter was delicious. The view from the top of the vineyard was amazing! Would definitely recommend and will be back here!
Liv McGoverne — Google review
Tasty wines to be enjoyed in stunning settings. The tasting + platter was very reasonable and delicious. Renan the owner/manager is very friendly and knowledgable - would definitely recommend!
Ellen Vanderhoven — Google review
Amazing little winery where you can get a taste of wonderful rose, have a friendly chat with owners and do a self tour through the vinyard. There are 2 accommodations on the estate as well. Definitely recommend visiting when you are in Akaroa.
Maria Kniazieva — Google review
It was lovely to stumble upon this adorable winery on our anniversary weekend. Simon was a great host and his wines were all very nice to try. Will definately stop in next time we are in the area and recommend to others.
Jennifer Butler — Google review
Fantastic spot with great views. New owners are very friendly, have put a lot of work into the property, and gave us a lovely tour (Thank you!) The wine is very nice (several bottles of the Pinot noir followed us home) and the accommodation looks amazing. We'll be back!
Roger Jamieson — Google review
We came here by chance and had a great wine tasting with delicious wines! Simon was super accommodating and gave us lots of background information about the wines and the history of the winery. Afterwards we were able to stroll around the beautiful winery and enjoy the view of the bay. Really a great place here! Anyone who is in the area should definitely make a detour there.
L — Google review
Absolutely amazing experience at the beautiful French Peak Vineyard. The hosts Simon, Carolyn (& Kumara the cat!) were extremely hospitable and friendly. I stayed in the loft accommodation which was clean & spacious.
The scenery surrounding the vinyard is incredible... almost as good as the pinot gris! I'd definitely recommend to others and hope to visit again soon!
Robert Benson — Google review
Absolutely my favorite winery of my entire New Zealand trip. The service and the wines are absolutely fantastic. They’re so warm and welcoming and kind. I visited here back at the end of January 2024 and still fondly think of the memories made here. My boyfriend and I bought many wines from here and savored every sip that we carried throughout our NZ trip and also back home to the US…
TH Tran — Google review
We were greeted warmly by Simon. He was very accomodating. Wine tasted great! My favorite was Pinot Gris. It was a lovely relaxing atmosphere and kid friendly as well!Worth a visit. Highly recommend!
Kristina Marshall — Google review
Carolyn and Simon are lovely hosts. A warm welcome awaits you in a beautiful intimate setting, surrounded by amazing scenery. Don’t forget to taste their wines, carefully crafted, tasting delicious. Highly recommended to visit.
Nadine Loetscher — Google review
Came across by chance on our bike ride today, beautiful setting, delicious wine and lovely owners. Thank you for a short but sweet afternoon in the sun- we will be back for longer next time!
Robyn Beaty — Google review
We are drinking a 2020 chardonnay, bought from the vineyard the same year, when you were labeling it, when we visited Akaroa. The wine is
superb, a degree of complexity with subtle oak. It's delicious! It was definitely worth the effort of letting it cellar until now. Thanks, French Peak!
Absolutely amazing gardens. Well worth the visit.
The entry price is reasonable and can be paid online or cash. There's Wi-Fi on site, and they have a tiolet. Getting around is easy enough, up and down some lovely steps, and the views over the bay are just incredible.
We did the drive to get to the gardens in our Mazda 3, which was fine. Just take it slow, and look out for loose sheep.
Megan Andrews — Google review
Well worth the drive out to this beautiful setting. Great views of coast and wide selection of flowers and shrubs. Take it easy on the drive in and out as the road is narrow and corrugated gravel.
Scott Pickering — Google review
Drove out all excited after reading other reviews but sadly it was closed. I’m not sure if temporarily or permanently.
Roger Bee — Google review
Beautiful private garden open for tourists. Price 15 nz dollars. Well done owners!
Carmen Gor — Google review
We made a visit here on Good Friday, the weather wasn't great (quite windy and drizzle of rain here and there) but did not effect the garden, it was absolutely beautiful! So peaceful, we had the garden to ourselves wandering around, even more special that we were allowed to take our behaved dog on a leash with us. To end the self guided garden tour we had a lovely cup of tea in a nice rustic barn(?) which finished it off just perfectly. Would love to return again in Spring/Summer :)
S Griffith — Google review
Stunning spot, spectacular views, garden possibly getting away on them in places, but definitely worthwhile visiting. Take a picnic and enjoy!
Kathy Viney — Google review
A garden to take your breath away. World class naturalistic style planting steadied by areas of New Zealand natives. The coastal backdrop is unrivaled. Summer and early autumn put on the best show.
Easily one of New Zealand's best gardens.
Julia Atkinson-Dunn (Studio Home) — Google review
Thank you Jill and Richard for the opportunity to visit your creation - an amazing experience to see your inspiration and hard work. The mix of colours and textures spectacular.... the day was perfect in so many ways. Richard, your connection with my Dad was very special. Thanks for a very memorable day.
Ann Ebert — Google review
Like a beautiful picture,very worth to visiting it in good weather. The view was breathtaking.
The Akaroa Winery at Takamatua Valley Organic Vineyards is a family-run boutique winery located on the Banks Peninsula. Visitors can enjoy a personalized wine tasting experience and learn about the unique terroir of the region. The owner, Allan, provides welcoming hospitality and shares his passion for organic wine making. Guests have the opportunity to taste a variety of delicious wines while gaining insight into the winemaking process.
Great winery! So close to Akaroa, def worth a visit. Alan was super knowledgeable on wines and all things NZ. The 2019 Pinot Gris was superb, as were their other wines. Gorgeous views, even on a windy cloudy day.
Kelly Plas — Google review
They are a family run winery. Not to forget they have been organic since the beginning. You just need to call them and let the guy at the phone know that u r vising there. They will explain the process, but not a practical tour. You get the chance for a free wine tasting of all or their best 4. It is totally up to u to buy one of the wines they produce. Card payments are accepted. Where u want to stop is Cella. Else you will be traveling through to the wine yard.
nirosh gamage — Google review
Wonderful experience!
Owner was knowledgeable & actually ran the wine tasting for us.
Wine is beautiful as are the surroundings, would be perfect in Summer.
Will be returning & would recommend to all.
heather goodall — Google review
Wine tasting and platters a relaxing afternoon very enjoyable.
Alan was the perfect host ,enjoyed the local wine & cheese would highly recommend a visit to the winery. Great value for money
Dianne Odell — Google review
We spontaneously visited this winery and were pleasantly surprised by the exceptional quality of Alan's wines. I highly recommend indulging in a tasting experience, regardless of whether you consider yourself a wine enthusiast. The atmosphere is delightful, and you might discover a new favorite!
Kirke Ranson — Google review
Beautiful wines and a really friendly and knowledgeable host (owner). Thanks for taking the time out of your day to show us through your cellar after our tasting. We love the approach to winemaking, getting the best out your great organic fruit using basic equipment. Everything done in-house vine to bottle. Very affordable wine. Salud!
Stuart Cunningham — Google review
We had the most amazing experience with Allan guiding us through our wine tasting experience. From the moment we walked through the door his welcoming hospitality and passion for wines was obvious. We tasted 8+ delicious wines (so many we lost count!) while he told us all about his organic wine making process. We even got an impromptu tour of the where the magic happens out the back.
This is a small, owner-operator business that is genuine and down to earth and definitely worth a visit when in Akaroa!
* Less than 5min drive from the center of town
* Very reasonable prices
* Excellent, knowledgeable host
boydpaige1 — Google review
Amazing wine tasting, awesome host and had the best time - would highly recommend.
Lex Pope-Dando — Google review
Great experience, the wine tasting was wonderful, some really delicious wines! And the winemaker Alan was so friendly and shared many interesting stories about the winery. Highly recommend a visit!
Angie Nelson — Google review
Would highly recommend this winery if you’re in Akaroa. A very personable experience by the owner himself and an array of delicious organic wines to taste (Not to mention Spotty the Cat providing a warm welcome!)
Ed Hothersall — Google review
Best wine we had in NZ hands down. Very generous with the wine tasting and very friendly. Highly recommend!
Nicholas Tan — Google review
Wonderful organic boutique Winery. Stunning wines. Alan is a very knowledgeable and engaging host.
Highly recommended Stop
The Britomart Monument is a place of nationally significant history and placed alongside Takapuneke Reserve together these sites tell a story “as important as Waitangi”… find out more
The Seventh Generation (Tours Akaroa New Zealand) — Google review
Always like a walk out to monument. Very important part out local and nz history.
Iain Thompson — Google review
Worst best small French Auckland transport system monument ever. And then some.
Tim Reed — Google review
Not very easy to find, but a rewarding experience once you are there. Parking could be problematic. Visit the Akaroa museum for a complete history of this monument.
A wonderful piece of history. Definitely worth a visit for girls women feminist and anyone who care about how women have come this far since the era when the poster in the ladies room is considered courteous.
Royal Reed — Google review
We were so glad we stopped in. This building is a part of the community history and the volunteer librarian was so helpful in sharing information about the building. It was built by a ship builder and you can see that in the design of the ceiling. We played their literary challenge and we received a lifetime award for our perfect score. 😁
Riv F — Google review
Coronation Library in Akaroa
Visited on 1/2/2019
Coronation Library is a local library established in 1875. It is a small timber building.
After a combined school and public library opened, the Coronation Library ceased to be the town’s main library.
The library is run by volunteers. At the counter, a friendly volunteer librarian who knows the history of the library like the palm of her hand is more than willing to give a run down of the past.
It is not surprising why many people gathered outside the building - free Wifi is available at the library.
Sin Fong Chan — Google review
Wonderful little historic library with even more wonderful staff. Met a woman named Sue and she was very knowledgeable and kind. Definitely give it a visit!
Dean Adams — Google review
The volunteers provided fantastic knowledge of the history of this library and the area. Great historical resources available. We sat in the old leather chairs and read for awhile. Loved it.
Dave Marshall — Google review
The Coronation Library is an interesting example of the historical places in the town of Akaroa. In 1860 a Literary and Scientific Institute (later renamed the Mechanic’s Institute) was formed in Akaroa. The aim was to provide community members with mutual instruction and support and a library was an important part of that aim. At first the Town Hall building was used but as the patronage grew the Institute needed a larger place of its own. Using a grant from the Provincial Council, the architect Samuel Farr (who lived in Akaroa from 1850 until 1862) was engaged to design a new building on the Rue Jolie which opened on 22 May 1875. The institute continued to be used by the community and by 1911 it was in need of repairs. Using funds available to commemorate the coronation of George V the building was raised on new foundations, its roof repaired and a new frontage created. This gave the building its current Arts and Crafts/English domestic Revival look. The library continued in this building until a new combined school and community library opened in the administration block of Akaroa Area School in 1989. Coronation Library ceased to be the town’s main library and today a local trust cares for the building and maintains a reference library of New Zealand material there. Since the amalgamation of Banks Peninsula District Council and Christchurch City Council there has been significant much-needed maintenance and restoration work done on the building. Akaroa Library gives all withdrawn and unwanted donated books to Coronation Library for their continued fundraising.
Ely Mar — Google review
Very gentle and talkative librarian who took the time to explain us detailed history of the library and gave us really good tips for the continuation of our trip. If you’re keen in knowing more about Akaroa and the history of some of the buildings you should definitely stop by.
The starting point of the Banks Peninsula Track, located on the peninsula of the same name, marks the beginning of an exciting hiking adventure. Situated amidst captivating natural beauty and enchanting landscapes, this trail offers a thrilling experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The initial point of access for this track presents a gateway to diverse terrains and picturesque surroundings. Explorers will encounter an array of breathtaking vistas, ranging from rugged coastlines to lush forests and rolling hills.
Beautiful sculptures and artworks.
This trail is on private land, and the kind owners have opened it up to the public. Really like to applaud the owners for doing a wonderful job maintaining the tracks free of charge.
We followed the map to the Rhino which is the star attraction and did not manage to do a loop to Moa point.
Please help to post photos of the Moa if you manage to complete the loop.
Chee Wan Lim — Google review
This is a terrific family friendly walk, for families with young children.
There are animal sculptures along the way and a life-sized rhino sculpture at the top.
There were a multitude of fantail birds. I have never seen so many in my life!
It reminded me of the Karen Carpenter song. (They Long to Be) - Close to You
Why do birds suddenly appear
Every time you are near?
Just like me, they long to be
Close to you
I was jealous. It wasn't me!
It's an easy and short walk with a boardwalk and amazing views along the way. Access from Akaroa - there's a car park available at the trailhead.
W R Edwards — Google review
Didn't do the trail.
The beachfront is a great place to take the kids exploring for shells, crabs, and other various sea life. Definitely don't swim here, Akaroa runs its sewage straight into the bay. Sadly, there is a lot of litter (including broken bottles) that the council doesn't seem to care about.
Peter Sterling — Google review
It is a really lovely walk from the boat storage area to the rhino which took us 30 minutes each way. There are other sculptures along the way including penguins, giraffes, a pig and Shaun the sheep. Watch out for the crocodile too!
fletcher — Google review
We spent a short time at the bay. It's not a very clean place to swim, especially for children, so wouldn't recommend doing so. We didn't go to the trail, so cannot review it.