Akaroa, which means Long harbour, is an hour and a half drive from Christchurch. we had heard that it was once a French Colony. Having lived in Erstwhile french colony , Pondicherry in India and still cherishing the fond memories gathered there, we were more than eager to visit the place.
We might have taken a little longer than that as we stopped in a couple of places
We stopped at the first picnic spot we spotted, took some time watching the Swans glide gracefully on the Lake Ellesmere
and then continued on
Enroute, we stopped at Little River and a little dose of history awaited us at the railway station now converted into a little craft store.
Taking one on a trip down memory lane of a bygone era.
We sauntered around entranced by the antique memorabilia on display…
Lanterns,
ticket collecting booth ,
A couple of stops at a few scenic views , later we were in Akaroa.
This picturesque town is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll around , stopping by the Museum to get an understanding of the historical heritage of the erstwhile French Colony
The old church.. where the choir was just starting practise for the next day’s Church service.
The French street names and the antique buildings bear witness to the bygone era.This is the only thing that bore any resemblance to Pondicherry.
A French bakery, Cooking school and loads of souvenir stores in the town centre are a sure giveaway for the French flavour that is still very much prevalent in the town.
The mosaic place …. which was closed as we were there late afternoon… were all very interesting to look at. we heard this was a must visit ,maybe next time.
Other than the idyllic old world charm of the town, 
a walk down the beachfront lounging listening to the sound of the water and the sea gulls is extremely relaxing.
Drove to the lighthouse
watched the boats on the bay.
The views were just magnificent specially at the golden hour,It must be a popular wedding destination , as we did see a wedding party getting some photos around the town.
We seemed to be running into them around the town.
we fell in love with this little car. … guess it belonged to the wedding party
Admired some old buildings
Had an ice ceam
before heading back. The drive back was just as beautiful.
we do plan to go back sometime in the summer.
