Akaroa, Jewel of the Banks Peninsula

The road to Akaroa is a bit twisty, and yet for your effort you are rewarded with views, great restaurants, penguins, art, and more.

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Created by volcanic explosion and settled by French pioneers, Akaroa is a small village constrained by steep hills and water.

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We stayed at the Akaroa Criterion Hotel–great location and management. It is an easy walk along the waterfront to restaurants and shops. It is also next door to Sweet As Cafe.

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Entertainment, war memorials, and a great store for buying merino wool sweaters and other possumĀ items at Woolworx.

This beautiful spot is in my top three places in New Zealand. Go already!