Escape to Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula! Sprawled along the edge of an ancient volcano, Akaroa has the quirky characterisation of being the “French Capital of New Zealand” complete with French street names and bakeries. But it’s the breathtaking coastal scenery and marine wildlife that we get the most excited about with its turquoise blue waters home to Hector’s dolphins, seals and blue penguins. What will your Akaroa itinerary look like? Start planning right here on New Zealand’s largest travel guide.