Banks Peninsula
Just one hour from Christchurch the beautiful Banks Peninsula is a popular spot for spending the weekend - no surprise that many of Christchurch's residents have baches (holiday homes) in the area. Highlights of the Banks Peninsula include;
Charming Akaroa
The main town of the Banks Peninsula. With French street names the charming waterside town of Akaroa has a Gallic feel thanks to its early French settlers. In 1838 the area was the backdrop to a race between Britain and France to establish sovereignty of the South Island, which the British won by just 6 days. Now a Kiwi seaside town with beautiful bays, good restaurants and outdoor activities. The Giants House in Linton is an unusual and artistic house and garden that amuses and intrigues all ages.
Historic Lyttleton
On the northern edge of the Banks Peninsula and the South Island's biggest port, Lyttleton is tightly linked with the history of Antarctic exploration. Shackleton and Scott set off from Lyttleton on their epic and ill-fated expeditions to reach the South Pole and today ships from Lyttleton still serve supplies to the New Zealand and US Antarctic bases. The town's most famous landmark is the Timeball Station, which was used by shipping to tune key navigation equipment. The huge time ball is still dropped from the renovated tower every day at precisely 1pm. Perhaps surprisingly for a big port Lyttleton enjoys a selection of interesting restaurants.
Take the spectacular Summit Road
Step off the main highway and take the slow road from Christchurch to Akaroa along the s-shaped Summit Road, a real feature of the Banks Peninsula. Views from the road are truly spectacular for the cyclists, walkers and occasional motorists that use it. Running along the ridges of the two volcanic harbours of the Banks Peninsula the road leads to many fine short walks and gorgeous bays with occasional cafes found along the way.
Wonderful Walking
The Banks Peninsula is a popular place for walking with a large variety of walks for all ages and abilities, ranging from relatively short walks of a few hours to the more well-known Banks Peninsula Track which takes the more committed walker to four bays in four days across volcanic coastlines, sandy beaches and wild headlands. Walking routes are available in visitor centres, especially Akaroa.
Other New Zealand Peninsulas: Aupouri Peninsula, Coromandel Peninsula