The history of Akaroa
The town has a fascinating history with strong Maori, British and French roots which can still be seen in the town today.
One of the most notable incidents in the history of Akaroa happened in 1830 when a British Captain helped a North Island Maori Chief capture the local Maori Chief which led to the fall of the local Maori settlement. The concern about this and other incidents of lawlessness led to the appointment of James Busby as British Resident which in turn led to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
French settlers then arrived in the 1840s believing the land had been purchased for them only to find the British had claimed it instead. They were nevertheless granted some land to settle. Akaroa was primarily used as a whaling port and for sheep and dairy farming.
Things to do in Akaroa
The town has a fascinating history with strong Maori, British and French roots which can still be seen in the town today.
One of the most notable incidents in the history of Akaroa happened in 1830 when a British Captain helped a North Island Maori Chief capture the local Maori Chief which led to the fall of the local Maori settlement. The concern about this and other incidents of lawlessness led to the appointment of James Busby as British Resident which in turn led to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
French settlers then arrived in the 1840s believing the land had been purchased for them only to find the British had claimed it instead. They were nevertheless granted some land to settle. Akaroa was primarily used as a whaling port and for sheep and dairy farming.
Akaroa Events
As well as the number of great things to see and do in Akaroa, there are also a number of fantastic annual events that take place right throughout the year. If your travel dates happen to coincide with these, it’s a great opportunity to get involved in some community fun!
Places to eat in Akaroa
With amazing produce and exquisite French influences, there are some incredible places to eat in and around Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula. Here are just a few of our favourites!
Rent the perfect car for exploring Akaroa
Recommended vehicle for your trip to Akaroa
PREMIUM 4X4
HYUNDAI SANTA FE
Guaranteed Model:
Our Santa Fe has city style and the power to match any New Zealand landscape.
5 Seats
4
6
Auto Trans
NEAREST BRANCHES
Trip Planner
News and Social
- DESTINATIONS
11 of the best indoor activities in Queenstown
Read moreQueenstown is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations and is also known as the adventure capital of the world. Whilst for many, this is one of the biggest reasons to visit Queenstown, for others, the idea of strapping a giant rubber band to your leg and throwing yourself off a bridge is not …
06 November, 2020
- DESTINATIONS
The Length of New Zealand [and 5 other fun facts]
Read moreAs well as providing a wide range of super-helpful travel resources for anyone planning a trip around New Zealand, we also like to throw in the occasional posts packed full of useless facts! You never know when you might find yourself in a pub quiz wondering just how far it is from the top of …
The Length of New Zealand [and 5 other fun facts] Read More »
16 October, 2020
- DESTINATIONS
6 of the Best Events in New Zealand in November
Read moreNovember’s a great month for getting out and about in New Zealand. It’s the month where Spring fizzles away into Summer and the spirit of the people starts to get festive with Christmas just around the corner! It’s also the last chance to dedicate some time to getting out and about before the mayhem of …
14 October, 2020