Cine Cafe is a small, quirky cinema in the beautiful village of Akaroa. Like everything else in the town the cinema pays tribute to Akaroa's historical French roots, not only by the films it shows but also the food and drinks served.
The cinema offers a unique, luxurious experience and if you close your eyes you could almost be in Paris in the 1920's. There is one screen with around 24 seats, all of which are extremely comfortable and spacious. They all come with a table where you can place your drinks upon, be it a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate (served in a mug) or a glass of wine or beer.
The cinema offers cheap deals which include a hot meal, drink and film. Well worth it! I would recommend this to anyone who happens to be in Akaroa. A truly enjoyable experience!
www.cinecafe.co.nz
Phone: 03 304 7678
Fax: 03 304 7491
Postal Address: PO Box 90
Akaroa 8161
Canterbury
Email: info@cinecafe.co.
Set in a beautful location on the Banks Peninsular (the sticky-out bit of the South Island), French Farm is an unpretentious and laid-back winery with amazing wines. We went for a 10 minute taste and left three hours later clutching our bellies having enjoyed an incredible meal with great wines!
This quirky little restaurant in the centre of Akaroa is justly recommended in guidebooks. It has precisely two sittings of dinner a day - 6pm and 8.30pm, and woe betide you if you arrive early, you'll have to wait - the menu is written on a blackboard outside the door, and the walls covered in thanks from satisfied customers. There isn't much room, so book in advance (however rumours of having to book six months in advance are exaggerated). Food is French-influenced but with local produce - the smoked salmon is divine. Prices are equivalent to bigger city restaurants (mains in the $30-35 range) but it's well worth it!
Rue Lavaud, Akaroa; (03) 3047314
Arriving over the rim of the old volcano from Christchurch, the beautiful town of Akaroa is seen hugging the bay of the inlet.
The French feel of the town is evident in the street names. This is a great place to use as a base for boat trips, walking on the Banks peninsula or enjoying a relaxing time sitting and looking around at the fantastic views all around.
Plenty of places to eat and stay at a reasonable cost to suit all types of tourist.
South of Christchurch on South Island.
Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
Search Been there
