Location: Akaroa
Top Things to do in Akaroa
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The 9 Best Shopping in Akaroa, South Island
The French are known as the world’s most romantic people, so it makes sense that Akaroa—site of New Zealand’s first French settlement—is an ideal spot to set the scene for love. Hold hands with your paramour and stroll along the provincial harbor, where dolphins, penguins, and seals bob and chatter in the sparkling ice-blue water. First-class accommodations, quaint French bakeries and succulent restaurants are the perfect ingredients for a romantic getaway.
Restaurants in Akaroa
1. Fire & Ice - Gemstone Jewellery Specialists
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 120 reviews
We specialise in handcrafted gold & silver gemstone jewellery featuring natural gemstones and pearls. We also carry a large selection of New Zealand Blue Paua Pearls displaying brilliant colours and unique designs. For the gemstone collector we have gemstones, crystals and minerals from around the world. Our onsite Aromatherapist manages our range of pure essential oils, creating exclusive essential oil blends and massage oils. If you're unable to visit us, you can shop online - we offer worldwide courier service. We welcome your visit to our shop when you are next in our beautiful seaside village of Akaroa, South Island, New Zealand
Reviewed By HazelL457
Excellent jewellery makers and excellent customer service! Very speedy delivery as well and I would recommend Fire and Ice to anyone seeking top quality jewellery and service in NZ and abroad. Don't go past this business!!
2. Mr Peacock
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Welcome to Mr Peacock, New Zealand designed and made high quality and colourful fashion.
3. Blue Pearls Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 24 reviews
Eyris Blue Pearls® come only from New Zealand abalone, aka paua, cultured right here in Akaroa harbour. On the Main Wharf in Akaroa, in the Blue Pearls Gallery, our jewellers create unique Blue Pearl pieces right in front of you. You can see the entire creation process from start to finish—from sketch, to Eyris pearl setting, to the completed piece. “This is how Blue Pearls should be exhibited in all their iridescent glory”, says the owner of the Blue Pearls Gallery, Jack Pawlowski. Come in and enjoy these unique Kiwi pearls!
Reviewed By 473susanr - Ottawa, Canada
Before my holiday, I had seen a documentary in Canada which informed me about Akaroa's blue pearl industry. The shop itself features informative videos about the farming of blue pearls. They have a good selection of jewelry in a wide range of prices so that it's possible to leave with a piece that doesn't break the bank. The woman who served me took time not to rush the sale, was very friendly, told us about their pre-quake Christchurch location and shared a story about Ian McKellen (his photo with shop owners is on the wall) visiting their store when it was in Christchurch. I hope her Christmas stockings from the US arrived for the holidays! Thank you again, Blue Pearl Gallery.
4. The Giants House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,284 reviews
The Happiest Garden on Earth..! Garden of International Significance.. A Josie Martin creation.. Colourful, beautiful balance between garden and art. Don’t miss the fun DVD playing in the contemporary art gallery. Terraced gardens with sculptures and incredible mosaics. Very Unique. A creative feast and a wonderful experience. Only a few minutes walk from the centre of Akaroa.terraced gardens are full of surprises -expect the unexpected at The Giant's House!
Reviewed By FranG1 - Auckland, New Zealand
What an incredible spot every corner you turn just takes your breath away, how people can comment that the entrance fee is too pricey is beyond us, it’s just incredible and photos don’t do it justice.
5. Woolworx
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9 reviews
6. Pot Pourri
7. Lava
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 32 reviews
Gallery/gift store showcasing local made jewellery, pottery, art, and unique giftware. We endeavour to sell as many products New Zealand made and pride ourselves on supporting local artisans. (around 20% of our products are sourced elsewhere). Quirky , unique and original.
Reviewed By LeonKiwi - Christchurch, New Zealand
If you are after great kiwi, retro art and household items, this is your place! Great friendly owner and they have a shop at Northlands too.
8. Barrys Bay Cheese
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By SGPG - Mount Maunganui, New Zealand
We visited as we drove on a day trip to Akaroa. The ladies in the shop were very friendly. There are samples of three cheeses available. Through the glass window it was possible to see the cheesemakers at work. There is also a video of more of the process. Great selection of the cheese available for sale plus some additional gourrmet items.
9. Akaroa Woolshed Gallery
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 2 reviews
