TRAVEL DIARY: Day 2
AKAROA
I don’t know how it always happens—no matter how much I plan for a relaxing trip, I end up packing in so much! This was especially true on our second day in Christchurch, when we found ourselves heading out to explore even more places, including the beautiful town of Akaroa.
We set off early on a crisp morning, winding our way through the scenic hills toward Akaroa. Our first stop was the Shamarra Alpaca Farm, nestled on the hills overlooking the harbour. Surrounded by rolling fields and curious alpacas.
We walked around its magnificent hills, fed the cute creatures, took selfies, and learned about their luxurious fleece and how they made their way in New Zealand .
Next, we made our way to the whimsical Giants House, just less than half an hour drive. The garden burst with colour and creativity—every corner a mosaic masterpiece. We wandered through the sculptures, feeling like we’d stepped into a surreal dream.
Then again, it wasn’t exactly an easy walk—there were so many steps, constantly going up and down.
I’ll be sharing more about this place in the future—I’d love to show you more photos, especially since I am sure not many of you will get the chance to wander down this way.
Akaroa is a beautiful harbour-side town with charming colonial architecture remnant of the French and British settlers who founded the area. Akaroa’s main wharf is situated on the south side of the town centre and is within metres of shops and cafes.
Doors that we saw on the way to get lunch.
Some seats.
Finally, after lunch, we strolled down to the jetty, where the sea stayed still under the afternoon descending clouds. We watched the boats bobbing in the water, and we breathed in the salty breeze as friendly seagulls watched.
It was a perfect Akaroa day—full of charm, animals, art, and the gentle rhythm of the sea.
I am linking this to:
Jo’s Monday Walk Challenge
Dan’s Thursday Doors Challenge
Natalie’s Photographing Public Art Challenge
Xingfumama’s Pull Up a Seat Challenge
A lovely wander about Teresa, thank you
My pleasure Brian. A Feast for the eyes.
You are definitely someone who needs a holiday to recover from a holiday, Teresa. I love the setting of the alpaca farm and those mosaics are delightfully mad. Thanks so much for sharing xx
The good thing is, New Zealand is just 3 hours away from Australia. Need to do it again 👍
It looks such a beautiful country, but it’s beyond my dreams right now xx
I know, there are countries that are just for “ in my dreams” category.
What a perfect day, with a bit of everything – including, apparently, too much in your rucksack!
Maybe too much but still perfect.
It’s hard to zero in on favorites, Theresa, there are so many. I love seeing the alpacas and the doors, but the giants and the photos along the water are some of my favorites.
That is why I had to squeeze everything in on my day. Thanks Dan.
A wonderful outing, Teresa. I love the mosaics; they remind me of Park Guëll in Barcelona. Beautiful scenery all around, too. Thank you for your public art share.
That’s what I thought of when I saw this. Gaudi would have a lot of influence plus her quirky personality and hard work.
Those alpacas are very cute! And the Giants House looks interesting – some of the sculptures remind me of works by Gaudi 🙂
I guess a lot of inspiration there from Gaudi. Thanks Sarah.
Wow, so many beautiful photos, Teresa! It looks like Akaroa is a New Zealand gem that features unique wildlife experiences, stunning views, heritage buildings and excellent food. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
Thanks so much Aiva. Thanks to youtube, I found these amazing places to explore.
🥰🥰🥰
So interesting that you could find Alpaca in New Zeeland, but I wouldn’t wonder too much, after we saw them here in Canada too😍
It seems you had a lovely day!
Christie
Thanks Christie, we did have a hreat time with these lovely creatures. The owner of this farm exports them as well so we wouldn’t be surprised where it goes next.
Beautiful place. It looks like a lot of fun to explore.