Akaroa
Akaroa
Akaroa is a village on Banks Peninsula in the Canterbury region of the South Island of New Zealand. It is 82 kilometers by road from Christchurch, and is the terminus of State Highway 75.
the lighthouse
According to the March 2001 New Zealand census of population and dwellings, the permanent population was 576, a decrease of 69 since 1996. The village has a high (31%) ratio of residents aged over 65 years.
Catholic church
Set on a beautiful, sheltered harbor and overlooked by craggy volcanic hills, Akaroa is a popular resort village. In summer the temporary population can reach 7,000 which places stress on the water supply which is entirely dependent upon rainfall on the hills.
bowls
Although sailors from the hastily-despatched HMS Britomart proclaimed British sovereignty over the South Island at Akaroa in 1840, the area was settled that same year by French settlers who had intended to establish a colony. The area still has a French influence, reflected in many local place names.
sports field
Many Hector's Dolphins may be found in the harbour, and 'swim with the dolphins' boat tours are a major tourist attraction.
Dolphin Cruise
gourmet dining
The French settlement was known as Port Louis-Philipe; before 1840 it was also known as Wangaloa. The name Akaroa is Kāi Tahu Māori for 'Long Harbour'.
Frank Worsley, a local hero
The Old Shipping Centre
French car
flying the French flag
whaling tripot
the artist
fun in the sand
school uniform
war memorial
bank
the gardener
