Tours
We are local experts for the nature and history of Akaroa and the surrounding landscape, ready to guide you on your journey.
WHAT WE OFFER
Our tours are not just about sightseeing. They are about creating an understanding and connection to this special place.
We tell stories from the past to create a deep understanding of the present and vision for the future.
We teach you about what makes this part of the world so special.
We take you to special places to share their beauty and develop a sense of connection.
We believe in the importance of telling positive and inspiring stories.
We offer a one-of-a-kind experience in which you can participate and engage.
4WD Van / Tour Bus
Local Resident Guide
Scenic Break with Tea and homemade Scone
Pick-up and drop-off in Akaroa
SPECIAL: Akaroa Culture Tour for Kiwis
Recommended: Akaroa History & Nature Tour
2 hours | Adult: NZ$70, Child: NZ$50 | from 4 people | Group & Senior Discount available
Get to know your own country a little better. Find out all about your history as New Zealanders, brought to you by a direct descendant of the French settlers. Visit some of the most important historic sites such as Takapuneke, the site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and Britomart Monument, the place of the British declaration of sovereignty. Experience the stories of the past in a new way, and leave with a new sense of hope and appreciation for New Zealand.
"As a long time residents we loved Marie’s stories. The depth of knowledge about the plants and animals filled in lots of gaps in our understanding. I completely recommend this tour. Wonderful to hear such passion about the Banks Peninsula.
Full Akaroa History and Nature Tour
3 hours | Adult: NZ$120, Child: NZ$100 | from 4 people | Group & Senior Discount available
Discover the scenic beauty, history, nature and culture of Akaroa in one complete comprehensive tour. Visit some of the most important historic sites such as Takapuneke, the site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and Britomart Monument, the place of the British declaration of sovereignty. Experience fascinating natural sites like the Heritage Park that provides stunning views over Akaroa, the Wildside Project, a community-driven collaboration for predator control and the protection of native species, and the internationally renowned Hinewai Reserve. You will see, learn and experience the stories of our past, and leave with a sense of hope and inspiration for the future.
We spent a month touring Australia and New Zealand. Of all our tours, this was the best. Marie was a perfect guide. Best Tour of Our Entire Trip.
Private Tour
Flexible Duration| from 2 people | Fees on Request
Explore this special place at your own pace. Experience the unique beauty and fascinating history of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula with a Private Tour tailored to your personal interests and wishes. Popular activities include visiting Historical Sites, going for a walk in Hinewai Reserve, discovering the unique Wildlife, Wine Tasting in one of the Winerys, experiencing the Food Culture of Akaroa, exclusive visits to Private Baches or a special Farm Experience. Get in Touch to build your own personal itinerary.
“Marie Haley… is so engaging and warm that I felt that she was my daughter or niece giving me a personal tour… with her knowledge, candor and passion for Akaroa. She is the best Ambassador for New Zealand that you can find, that I am planning to come back soon.”
Educational experience for students that teaches them about the history and nature of Akaroa and New Zealand in an informative, interactive and inspiring way. Together, we will visit some of the most important historical sites in New Zealand such as the Takapuneke, site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and Britomart Monument, the place of the British declaration of sovereignty. The students will experience New Zealand‘s nature and wildlife by visiting internationally renowed Hinewai Reserve and learning all about the Wildside Project which is focussed on predator control and the protection of native species. Our local guide has many years of experience in operating school tours and will organise the trip for you and your students from start to finish. The itinerary can be adjusted on request. Suitable for year 7 and above.
"The tour was amazing. I learned lots of cool stories about Banks Peninsula and New Zealand. I didn’t think I’d like it, but Mum and Dad made me go along. I’m glad they did - it was great."
This 3-hour tour for university students allows them to uncover New Zealand’s history, nature and unique ecology. They will learn about some of the most important historical events by visiting Takapuneke, the location of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, and Britomart Monument, the site of the British declaration of sovereignty. Our local guide will take the group to internationally renowed Hinewai Reserve and share firsthand stories about the Wildside Project, a community-driven collaboration which is devoted to predator control and the protection of native species. The students will learn about the history and nature of New Zealand in an engaging way, so that they leave with more knowledge, a deeper sense and understanding for New Zealand and hope for the future. The itinerary can be adjusted on request.
“Marie is a fabulous speaker and gave us a lucid and passionate account of the ecology and people of the place. It is amazing to see how local people have each met the restoration challenges of a landscape in their own unique ways."
Add more value to your conference by bringing the participants out on an informative and inspiring journey in and around Akaroa. Learn about New Zealand’s history and nature by visiting some of the most important historic and nature conservation sites in the country such as the Britomart Monument and internationally renowed Hinewai Reserve. Our local guide will share firsthand stories about the Wildside Project, which is devoted to predator control and the protection of native species. You will gain a deeper understanding of the history and nature of New Zealand which involves discourse about environmental change, regeneration, sustainability and resilience. The tour allows conference delegates to come together, exchange ideas, network, and leaves them with a sense of hope and inspiration for the future.
Marie is an extremely effective communicator who is able to eloquently transmit the spirit of the Wildside project. The approach those landowners are taking is great, and is leading to outcomes that everyone involved should take pride in.
