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Little River

Welcome to Little River, the quirky gem of New Zealand! Nestled between stunning mountains and the sparklingly lovely Lake Ellesmere, this charming village is a feast for nature lovers. Stroll through art galleries, sample local delicacies at the café, and don’t miss the delightful Little River Rail Trail. Adventure awaits in this enchanting slice of Kiwi paradise!

From the Community

rachelhelsby

Aquariustravel

Recommendations

Outdoor4.7/5

Little River Rail Trail

Discover the enchanting Little River Rail Trail in Ataahua, New Zealand! This scenic 12-kilometer pathway weaves through stunning landscapes, charming towns, and diverse wildlife. Perfect for biking, walking, or simply soaking in the views, it's an adventure waiting to be had. Don’t forget your camera—you'll want to capture those Insta-worthy moments! Happy exploring! 🌿🚴‍♂️📸

Shop4.5/5

Little River Information/Craft Station

Little River Information/Craft Station is a charming hub that showcases local art, crafts, and the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking unique souvenirs and regional insights.

Outdoor4.2/5

Lake Forsyth

Nestled in the Canterbury Region, Lake Forsyth captivates with its stunning natural beauty, serene wetlands, and rich birdlife, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and peaceful getaways.

Shop4.5/5

Little River Café & Store

Nestled along Akaroa Road, Little River Café & Store offers a delightful blend of local flavors and artful ambiance, making it a must-visit stop for travelers seeking authentic New Zealand experiences and charming handmade goods.

Outdoor4.2/5

Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve

Nestled in lush greenery, the Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve offers breathtaking views, pristine trails, and rich biodiversity, making it an iconic spot for nature lovers and hikers seeking tranquility and adventure in New Zealand.

Outdoor4.6/5

Montgomery Park Scenic Reserve

Outdoor4.6/5

Hay Scenic Reserve Reserve Walk

Outdoor4.5/5

Birdlings Flat Beach

Landmark4.6/5

Little River Rail Trail (start of Section 5)

Outdoor4.3/5

Lake Forsyth (Lake Wairewa)

Shop5/5

The Artisan Lab

Eat$$$4.7/5

The One Next Door

Eat4.9/5

Junction Coffee & Eats

Shop$$$4.7/5

Little River Inn

Cafe4.4/5

Little River Diner

Stays

Stay4.7/5

Loch Sloy Farm Stay

Nestled in scenic Little River, Loch Sloy Farm Stay offers a unique blend of rustic charm and breathtaking landscapes, providing an unforgettable retreat with the chance to connect with nature and farm life.

Stay4.6/5

SiloStay

Nestled on the charming State Highway 75, SiloStay offers a quirky, eco-friendly escape in Little River! These converted grain silos boast cozy, modern interiors and stunning views. Perfect for travelers seeking adventure, enjoy nearby hiking trails, coffee shops, and breathtaking scenery. Unplug and unwind in this unique slice of Kiwi paradise—where whimsy meets wilderness! 🌿✨

Stay4.6/5

Snowberry Cottage

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Little River, Snowberry Cottage offers a charming retreat with its rustic elegance and stunning views, making it the perfect escape for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.

Stay5/5

Birdsong Lodge

Nestled in scenic Little River, Birdsong Lodge offers a serene retreat with charming accommodations, stunning landscapes, and the unique experience of native birdlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Stay4.9/5

Okuti Garden

Nestled in the serene Okuti Valley, Okuti Garden enchants visitors with its lush landscapes, vibrant flora, and tranquil ambiance, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

Stay4.9/5

Little River Cottage

Stay4.6/5

Little River Campground and Manaia Native Habitat

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

3 h

Akaroa Nature and History Private Tour - The 7th Generation

My true story | New Zealand’s History Do not miss out on this incredible New Zealand experience. Just look at the amazing 5 star reviews! Guests describe this tour as the “New Zealand’s best kept secret”, “the best thing to do in Akaroa”, “best tour in Canterbury.” 2-hour tours are available - contact Marie directly This tour is owned and operated by The 7th Generation descendant of the French settlers, expert trained historian and ecologist and natural born storyteller. Guests consistently report that the tour had a BIG impact on them, leaving them feeling connected to nature and inspired for the future. Expert guide Marie Haley, was a FINALIST at the 2024 New Zealand Tourism Awards for Tourism Business Excellence, a big deal for a one-woman operation. This tour will take you to all of Akaroa’s hidden gems - you will simply see no other tourists. This tour includes all the best things to do in Akaroa, that you could not access and understand without this expert guide.

$356.76

5/5

Akaroa Day Tour from Christchurch Return

Christchurch to Akaroa: A Scenic Escape Journey from Christchurch to Akaroa through breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and stunning coastal views. Explore Akaroa’s French charm, vibrant cafés, and boutique shops, or take an optional wildlife cruise to see rare Hector’s dolphins, seals, and penguins. Visit the famous Giant’s House with its magical mosaics or taste handcrafted cheese at Barrys Bay Cheese. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, this tour offers the perfect getaway. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

$157.57

5/5

2 h

Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise

At the core, we’re a family business with our management team being 6th & 7th generation Banks Peninsula locals. Alongside our family members, we have a passionate team who are committed to you having a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We keep our passenger groups small so that you have more room to move around the boat, and enjoy your cruise without overcrowding or missing dolphin sightings due to a shortage of viewing space. Our boat has a low-lying profile which means you get closer to the wildlife! When you board our boat you’ll be offered a complimentary drink. Choose from beer, award-winning local wine or non-alcoholic options. You’ll also enjoy our famous home-baked treats made from our family recipe and served to you by our delightful onboard crew. We are committed to the conservation of our harbour's environment and wildlife. After all, it’s the centre point of our business. *Check-in is 30 minutes prior to the departure, with boarding 15 minutes beforehand.

$83.24

4.9/5

2 h 45 mins

Sailing and Wildlife Tour Akaroa Fox II Sailing

Sail inside the crater of an extinct volcano on a quiet, intimate wildlife cruise with a maximum of 30 guests. This small-group experience offers long, respectful encounters with some of the rarest dolphins in the world, set against dramatic volcanic scenery. Enjoy a 3-hour eco-friendly sailing adventure aboard a peaceful sailboat, where the absence of engine noise allows close encounters with penguins, seals and albatross in their natural environment. Sail on the Fox II, New Zealand’s oldest ketch, over 100 years old, and be part of living maritime history. Discover spectacular sea caves, cliffs and waterfalls, then venture into the open Pacific on a safe, serene and unforgettable journey. Low impact, authentic and nature-focused—this is one of New Zealand’s most unique sailing and wildlife experiences.

$86.22

4.9/5

30 mins

Safe Sun-Viewing Tour with two Telescopes in Akaroa

New Zealand's only guided DAILY tour of the Sun! Discover the Sun like never before. Located just a 90-minute scenic drive from Christchurch, this unique daytime experience offers a safe, fascinating look at our nearest star, perfect for all ages and Akaroa day trips. You will observe sunspots, solar flares, and intricate surface activity in stunning detail through our specialized solar telescope. Our expert astronomer will guide you, sharing captivating facts and making this a hands-on, exciting introduction to astronomy. We use our cutting-edge ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope to capture high-resolution images of the Sun live. These incredible digital photos are then shared with you instantly! Plus, easily snap your own stunning visuals directly through the telescope with our smartphone adapter. Leave with unique, Insta-worthy visuals you won't find anywhere else. This short, educational, and high-tech tour is ideal for all ages. Book your spot now for an unforgettable experience!

$23.19

4.8/5

8 h

Akaroa Full Day Private Tour From Christchurch

Book an unforgettable day trip to Akaroa! Departing from Lyttelton Port, you'll enjoy stunning coastal views, including a stop at Sumner Beach before arriving in the charming, French-inspired town of Akaroa. Explore its historic streets, enjoy local cuisine, and discover unique attractions like the Giant's House or a harbor cruise to see rare Hector's dolphins. With expert guides and a relaxed pace, Kiwi Horizons ensures a memorable experience that combines natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Don’t miss this amazing day out!

$160.54

4.3/5

2 h 30 mins

Akaroa Shore Excursion: Akaroa Harbour and Giants House Local Tour

Enjoy a local 2.5 hour guided sightseeing shore excursion of Akaroa exploring the beautiful township, harbour, and this portion of the Banks Peninsula. After being picked up from the Akaroa Wharf, your coach will travel through township and the inner bays of the Akaroa before arriving at a local cheese factory, for tastings, and travelling along the old volcanic crater rim for some magnificent views of the harbour and peninsula. Afterwards, head back into Akaroa for a guided tour of the famous Giants House, with its beautiful gardens and mosaic sculptures. This tour is perfect for those looking for a short tour of the local sights and attractions!

$58.87

3.9/5

6 h

Akaroa Shore Excursion: Banks Peninsula, Christchurch City Tour and the International Antarctic Centre

Experience the grand architecture and beautiful gardens of Christchurch when your ship is in port in Akaroa. Your shore excursion from Akaroa port also includes a scenic trip through the Banks Peninsula and entry to the most popular attraction in Christchurch, the International Antarctic Centre. Enjoy the center’s Snow and Ice Experience, Blue Penguin Encounter and take an exhilarating ride in an all-terrain Hagglund vehicle.

$136.76

3.7/5

6 h

Akaroa Shore Excursion: Banks Peninsula, Christchurch City Tour and Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

See the sights of Christchurch when your ship is in Akaroa port, and explore the city on a comprehensive tour. Your Akaroa shore excursion also includes a trip through the beautiful Banks Peninsula and a visit to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Meet the elusive kiwi, New Zealand’s national bird, along with exotic visitors including deer, wallabies, otters, gibbons and lemurs.

$124.27

3.6/5

6 h

Akaroa Shore Excursion: Banks Peninsula, Christchurch City and Giants House Tour

A unique shore excursion from Akaroa which combines a tour of the Banks Peninsula and Christchurch with a guided tour of the famous Giant's House. While your ship is berthed at port, travel from Akaroa to Christchurch via the Akaroa Highway affording some beautiful views of the Banks Peninsula. After a brief stop at the Botanical Gardens, set off on a guided tour of the city centre which highlights the earthquake damage of 2011 with its rebuild efforts and surviving landmarks. Here you'll make a stop with time to explore on foot. Afterwards, head up to the Sign of the Takahe on the Port Hills with some incredible views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps, before heading back to Akaroa where a guided tour of the famous Giants House, with its stunning sculptures and gardens, have been arranged for your enjoyment.

$121.89

3.6/5

Discover Akaroa: Self Guided Audio Tour

Download a vibrantly-narrated mp3 audio guide combined with a map detailing the area of your tour. Nestled on the East Coast of the South Island, the quiet seaside town of Akaroa is best known for its volcanic hills and the dolphins that are found in the bay. On this self-guided audio tour, you will enjoy the tranquil setting and the stunning natural views along the harbour. You will also see the old lighthouse and learn about its interesting French history at the Akaroa Museum. Visit the town wharf, whale try pots, war memorial, corner of Lavaud and Balguerie, St Patrick's Catholic Church, the Old French cemetery, the giant's house, French forecourt and Rue Jolie. Known as the Paris of New Zealand this tour will delight and enthral all at your own pace.

$15.29

1 h

Akaroa & Banks Peninsula Scenic

The pinnacle of our flights east of Christchurch, this tour first sees you fly over the city centre to view the progress of the massive rebuild. Then it’s on to the beautiful Banks Peninsula and the picturesque French harbour settlement of Akaroa, before touching down on a mountain top to take in yet more magnificent views. Our pilots will personalise this experience for you by sharing their local knowledge and insights of our big backyard as you fly over remarkable sights and landmarks, including; Burnside Park, Sumner Cliffs, Rapaki Track, Quail, the Akaroa French Settlement and more. We have plenty to share with you and can’t wait for you to experience it.

$1,016.77

7 h

Private Day Scenic Excursion to Akaroa/Christchurch ex Lyttelton

This is a Private Tour. We can take up to 11 passengers and as locals have been proudly showing visitors Christchurch and the South Island for over 25 years (see "E S Tours" Trip Advisor Reviews). We like to think our tours are small, friendly, informative and we look for the interesting back roads to travel away from most tour destinations and itineraries.

$950.00

Akaroa Day Tour from Christchurch with Giants House

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque. So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by your modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by your fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a trip to the award winning Giant’s House, this journey is one you will never forget.

$148.65

8 h

Private Akaroa Day Trip and Nature Cruise from Christchurch

Explore the stunning landscapes of Banks Peninsula with a private day trip to Akaroa, featuring a two-hour nature cruise. Encounter unique wildlife such as Hector's dolphins, seals, and more while enjoying commentary on the area’s volcanic history and cultural significance. Spend your day at your own pace, discovering Akaroa's charming French heritage, boutique shops, and historic sites. This exclusive tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, local snacks, and a souvenir drink bottle, making it a perfect outing for families or groups looking to experience New Zealand's natural beauty. - Private guided tour tailored for your group, with a local expert - Scenic two-hour nature cruise showcasing Banks Peninsula wildlife - Explore Akaroa's historic lighthouse and picturesque village - Includes hotel transportation, local snacks, and a souvenir drink bottle

$475.68

5/5

5 h 30 mins

Guided Electric Mountain Bike & Sea Kayak Tour in Akaroa

This will be one of the best if not THE best experiences you will have during your NZ vacation! There is no better way to maximise your day in stunning Akaroa! If you love to get some exercise while exploring with a local guide this tour is for you. Get the best of both worlds as you pedal and paddle your way through this action packed unforgettable day of adventure with us. Incredible views from the hilltops above Akaroa await! Get up close and personal with the marine/nature reserve as you sea kayak through its pristine turquoise waters of the extinct volcanic crater. Enjoy touring with Local knowledgeable guides who love to share their knowledge Small intimate groups are key for safety and opportunity to chat with the guides through out the tours Exploring the area from two different perspectives will blow your mind and there is no better way to make the most of your time in this special place! And of course you get some Great exercise!

$184.33

5/5

Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo Day Trip from Christchurch

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island on a private day tour from Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo. Travel through the Canterbury Plains with a stop at Fairlie Bakehouse for a quick breakfast or coffee. Visit the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, with an optional seasonal stop at the New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm. Continue along the stunning Lake Pukaki with incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook. At Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, enjoy a short walk to Kea Point / Mueller Glacier Lake Lookout. Explore the renowned Hooker Valley Track/ Tasman Valley to view the impressive Tasman Glacier before returning to Christchurch.

$199.19

5/5

144 h

6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch

This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island, optional handpicked activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the South Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. The itinerary ensures a relaxed experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, jet boating, a Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot Pool Soak, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & an Alpaca farm visit. Choose to finish at Queenstown or Christchurch.

$3,359.51

5/5

240 h

10 Day North to South Island NZ Private Tour from Auckland

This signature 10-day, 9-night tour offers a perfect blend of daily travel, covering the majority of top attractions in both North Island (Auckland to Rotorua) and South Island (Christchurch to Milford Sound). The tour includes transfer flight, and optional handpicked activities, hotels & departure flight, ensuring you experience the best itinerary within your limited time in NZ without the hassles of planning endless things and driving long distances on your own. The itinerary is crafted to showcase the beauty of NZ in a relaxed style within an ideal number of days. Besides visiting many of the top attractions in NZ, enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for unbelievably long list of 15-17 optional activities, ensuring a diverse experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group, with a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Choose to finish at Auckland or Christchurch or Queenstown.

$6,406.86

5/5

4 h

Private Half-Day Godley Head Coastal Hike from Christchurch

Enjoy a half-day guided walk on Banks Peninsula, a spectacular extinct volcano only 30 minutes from Christchurch. Experience world-class views and see some of New Zealand's most stunning coastlines with an experienced local guide. Godley Head is a beautiful coastal track with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and also Lyttelton Harbour. It includes historic landmarks from WW2, an Antarctic cabin, and quaint little beaches to boot. The walk is 4 km and takes around 2 hours to walk, plus plenty of time to stop and enjoy the scenery. The track can be adapted by the guide on the day. With your own guide, you can set the pace. Both morning and afternoon walks are available, see the highlights and be back in Christchurch in time for lunch or dinner.