Akaroa Shore Excursions: Dolphins, Artwork, & Scenery

Akaroa is a coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island and a short drive southeast of the prominent city of Christchurch. When on a cruise to Akaroa, you can take a city tour of Christchurch or go deep within the surrounding South Island wilderness.

One of the most popular things to do in Akaroa from a cruise it to take a ride on the TranzAlpine railway, where you’ll glide through some of the most breathtaking scenery of the South Island’s Southern Alps. You’ll see mountains, plains, gorges, and even rainforests.

Take a city tour of Akaroa that stops at the Giant’s House, a local home and a top sight to see on Akaroa shore excursions. The Giant’s House got its name from a child looking upon it from the nearby valley and being so astounded by its apparent size that the child declared it must be the resident of giants. However, it is the art and not the giants or the size of the house that keep visitors coming back. The house has a whimsical charm created by the various sculptures, paintings, gardens, and other artwork that adorn the house, most of which are the work of artist Josie Martin.

Sightseeing is fun, but it might not get your heart rate up. Taking part in a shore excursion that features one of New Zealand’s daring activities will do it, though. Kayak through an extinct volcano crater, zip around Akaroa harbor on a jet boat, or go 4-wheeling through sprawling plains.

Animals also abound in and around Akaroa. On animal-centric Akaroa shore excursions you can see and even swim with local dolphins, visit a penguin colony, and travel to a working farm where you’ll see sheep and other farm animals.

Akaroa shore excursions will delight you with their beauty and exciting activities, providing you with a memorable day from your cruise to New Zealand.

Learn More About Celebrity Cruises Shore Excursions