Banks Peninsula, southeast of Christchurch, is best known for the idyllic town of Akaroa. However, the Canterbury peninsula has so much more to offer. Lisa Jansen carves out a five-day itinerary that takes in some of the area’s many jewels.
Banks Peninsula is one of the most unique areas of New Zealand. Steeped in Māori and settler history, the rolling hills, hidden bays and stunning bushland form a natural playground that feels a world away from home, yet so very Kiwi. With so much on offer, it can be tricky to put a pin in the map of where you want to start; this five-day travel itinerary is a great way to see and do a little bit of everything.
Day 1: Christchurch to Little River
On day one, make your way from Christchurch to Little River. Spend the morning checking out the old railway station and trains and browsing through the galleries, gift stores and artist studios before treating yourself to lunch at the café or a snack from the small general store.
After lunch, explore the Christchurch – Little River Rail Trail on foot or two wheels. The 27km trail is flat and takes you back to Motukarara, along Lakes Forsyth and Ellesmere. Walk or cycle for however long you want, then turn around to head back to Little River. Spend the night surrounded by native trees and bird songs at Little River Campground or the Catons Bay Freedom Camp with views of Lake Forsyth; expect a little road noise.
Day 2: Little River to Akaroa
Continue on SH75 towards Akaroa. Fruit lovers should stop at Cheskin Orchard just outside Little River to stock up on local produce. For cheese fiends, no trip to the Peninsula would be complete without a stop at multi award-winning Barry’s Bay Traditional Cheese Factory & Shop in Duvauchelle. You can taste a wide array of some of the delicious hand-crafted cheeses; don’t forget to stock up at the shop before continuing your journey. Once in Akaroa, try to secure a spot at the designated freedom camping area on your right just as you enter the town (max two nights), or check-in at the Top 10 Holiday Park. Akaroa is a great place to treat yourself to dinner out. There are several restaurants to choose from, and many offer beautiful views over the harbour. With that in mind, the best way to spend the afternoon is by working up an appetite – and there are many ways to do so.
Explore the animal sculptures and views along the Children’s Bay Rhino Walkway (5km, easy), hike up to Stoney Bay Peak (8km, moderate), complete the Takamātua Loop (9km, moderate), or tackle one of the many other walks and hikes in the area. If longer walks and hikes aren’t your thing, you can hire a kayak or standup paddleboard and explore the harbour, or just go for a stroll around town, browsing through the shops and heading out to the lighthouse.
Day 3: Akaroa to Okains Bay
If you find yourself in Akaroa on a Saturday morning, the small farmer’s market in the centre of the northern part of town is worth a visit. Afterwards – or instead – head out to The Giant’s House to admire the spectacular mosaic and sculpture garden. The gardens are within walking distance from the town centre and campgrounds and are open from 11am – 4pm every day in summer and until 2pm in winter. If you have the time, you could easily spend another day or two in Akaroa. There is much more to explore, including many more walks, joining a dolphin cruise or kayak tour or just taking in the beautiful scenery.
Whenever you’re ready, make your way to Okains Bay via the Tourist Drive along Long Bay Road, Summit Road and Okains Bay Road. This route takes you up the hill and offers stunning views over the Peninsula. The roads are steep and winding in some parts but fully sealed and suitable for most motorhomes and caravans if you take it easy.
As you come into Okains Bay, you will find a small shop and museum on your left. You can either stop now or set up camp first and then cycle or walk back later. If you opt for the latter, it’s worth checking the opening hours as they can be limited. Continue on Okains Bay road to the end to get to the campground right by the beach and estuary. The basic campsite gets busy in summer, but it’s huge, so you should usually find a nice spot. The camp does not have any powered sites, but a dump station is available. There is no phone or internet coverage in Okains Bay, making it the perfect place to switch off and relax for the afternoon – or even a few days.
Day 4: Okains Bay to Pigeon Bay
Spend the morning exploring Okains beach or visit the museum and shop. Once you’re ready to leave, make your way to Pigeon Bay via Summit Road. Pigeon Bay is a small settlement on the northern side of the Peninsula. The local campground is right on the water’s edge, offering stunning views. However, it’s best to call ahead to make sure it’s open, as it has been closed a few times recently due to Covid restrictions. If you find it’s closed, the campground in nearby Little Akaloa is an alternative (though the views aren’t quite as lovely).
Spend the afternoon exploring the Pigeon Bay walkway, a fairly easy, two-hour return track that starts at the end of the road on the eastern side of the bay, just past the campground. Alternatively, enjoy the scenery with a good book, take the bike for a spin or get out on the water if you have a kayak, paddleboard or other watercraft with you.
Day 5: Pigeon Bay to Christchurch
Once you are ready to leave scenic Pigeon Bay, make your way back up to Summit Road, turn right, and you will soon find yourself back at the intersection with SH75. If you’re feeling a little peckish, turn left and stop at the Hilltop Tavern for lunch or a snack – not to mention beautiful views. Otherwise, turn right and make your way back towards Christchurch.
Bonus Activities:
Take time to enjoy some extra activities on the Peninsula:
- Visit Diamond Harbour and Orton Bradly Park on the north side of the Peninsula, opposite Lyttleton. The café at Orton Bradly Park, in particular, is worth a visit (the apple cinnamon muffins are to die for).
- Spend a night at Little Akaloa – named to reflect the southern Māori pronunciation of the letter ‘r’. The campground is basic, and there are plenty of beaches and peaceful spots, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy being surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Go hiking. The options are almost endless. From tracks that take a couple of hours to full-day and multi-day adventures, everything is on offer on the Peninsula. Check the AllTrails or Plan My Walk apps, and you are sure to find the right track for you. Be aware, though, that a significant rain event in December 2021 has made some tracks trickier than they used to be and even closed a few. Check the apps for recent reviews or ask at the tourist information in Akaroa for the latest updates.
- Tour the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand with Pohatu penguins.
As you can see, whether you want an action-packed adventure or a quiet, relaxing holiday where you can stop for a while, Banks Peninsula offers something for everyone. Follow our itinerary, or make up your own. Either way, you are sure to have a great time exploring this beautiful part of Canterbury.
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