Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula

Our first outdoor experience in New Zealand and it was a good one! South-east of Christchurch lies the Banks Peninsula, a mountainous and volcanic part of the South Island that I found incredibly charming and almost fairy-like. We camped close to the historic French settlement Akaroa, a tiny village with lovely little (French) restaurants, coffee places, a cute harbor and many, many dreamy cottages. The hills around are perfect for (very windy) hikes and sensational views of the coastline and the many bays.