Akaroa Criterion Motel Exterior photo The photo shows a multi-story apartment building on a sunny day. The building is painted a light yellow color and has several balconies with dark railings. The balconies are recessed into the building's facade. 

The building has multiple windows of Akaroa Criterion Motel Exterior photo The photograph captures a low-angle view of a building situated at the foot of a large, majestic mountain. The building is a two-story structure with a light yellow facade and a red tiled roof. It features several windows on both floors, some with viAkaroa Criterion Motel Interior photo The photo shows a brightly lit studio apartment. The space is designed for a compact living arrangement, combining a sleeping area, living room, and kitchen. 

The main focal point is a comfortable-looking sofa in a light beige color, positioned agai
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From98US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

75 Rue Jolie, Akaroa, New Zealand
-
Near Akaroa Beach
Perfect
9.3
9.7
/10
5.0
4.8
/5

Location

The Akaroa Criterion Motel is located just meters away from Akaroa's iconic Daly's Wharf, offering direct access to scenic waterfront views. Situated along the winding road of Banks Peninsula, it presents a picturesque destination set within a historic village influenced by Maori and French culture. Only 90 minutes from Christchurch, the motel serves as a convenient base for exploring Akaroa's charm and local attractions.

Rooms

The motel provides 12 Super King rooms distributed over three floors, each designed to maximize comfort and luxury. Guests can select rooms with individual balconies or patios, allowing for relaxing moments while enjoying breathtaking views of the harbour. The top-floor sea view rooms offer expansive vistas of the Akaroa Harbour and include amenities like under-floor heating and double glazing.

Accessibility

The Akaroa Criterion Motel offers wheelchair-accessible ground floor sea view rooms, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the scenic beauty of Akaroa without barriers. These rooms provide easy access to the beach along with stunning views of Daly's Wharf just outside the door. Thoughtful design ensures a comfortable stay while accommodating various mobility needs.

Dining

The Akaroa Criterion Motel is situated near various dining establishments, with easy access to cafes and restaurants, showcasing local cuisine. The adjacent Crater Café offers fresh croissants and coffee, while restaurants like Ma Maison serve exquisite seasonal dishes with stunning waterfront views. These culinary experiences enhance the stay by providing options right outside the door.

Activities

Akaroa is home to diverse activities tailored for various interests, from scenic hiking trails to local craft stores. Guests can engage in dolphin tours to encounter Hector's dolphins, one of the world's smallest dolphin species, or explore marine reserves and vineyards in the area. Unique attractions, like the Giants House garden, offer creative landscapes and delightful experiences just minutes from the motel.

Highlights

Location: Just meters from Daly's Wharf

Rooms: 12 Super King rooms with balconies

Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible ground floor room

Dining: Close to Crater Café and Ma Maison

Activities: Dive into dolphin tours and hiking

Must-do experiences

  • Swim with dolphins in Akaroa Harbour for an unforgettable thrill.
  • Savor fresh fish and chips at The Trading Rooms on the waterfront.
  • Visit the Giant's House for stunning mosaics and lush gardens.
  • Explore the Akaroa Museum to learn about local history and culture.
  • Try the famous Akaroa lamb at La Roche for a true taste of NZ.
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Select your room type

Akaroa Criterion Motel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Ground Floor Standard Studio
2 persons
380 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Sea View
2 persons
520 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Double Room Sea View
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Akaroa Criterion Motel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.3/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Luggage storage

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

  • In-room breakfast

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access
  • Sun terrace
  • BBQ facilities

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Bedroom

  • Electric blankets

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Akaroa Criterion Motel Location

75 Rue Jolie, Akaroa, New Zealand
Map view
75 Rue Jolie, Akaroa, New Zealand
Nearby
Church
Saint Peter's Anglican Church
500 ft
1 Rue Pompallier
Orion Powerhouse Gallery
1000 ft
61C Beach Road
Lava
1900 ft
Church
St Patrick's Akaroa Catholic Parish Church
1100 ft
76 Rue Lavaud
Stony Bay Peak Walk
200 ft
French Bay
1600 ft
Beach
Childrens Bay
1.1 mi
Library
Akaroa Coronation Library
1700 ft
Mt. Somers
2300 ft
Restaurants
Ma Maison Restaurant & Bar
200 ft
2 Rue Jolie Banks Peninsula
Waffle Haus Akaroa
400 ft
58A Rue Lavaud
The Brasserie Kitchen And Bar
800 ft
41 Rue Lavaud
The Little Bistro
900 ft
33 Rue Lavaud
Peninsula General Store
700 ft
40 Rue Lavaud
Electric Kitchen Espresso & Eatery
1000 ft
37 Rue Lavaud
Explore Akaroa
Explore Akaroa
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The Giants House
The Giants House
11 minutes' walk
A unique garden filled with mosaic sculptures and vibrant plants, offering stunning views and artistic experiences.
Akaroa Museum Te Whare Taonga
Akaroa Museum Te Whare Taonga
11 minutes' walk
Showcases local history and culture with engaging exhibits, including Māori artifacts and colonial stories.
Banks Peninsula War Memorial and Grounds
Banks Peninsula War Memorial and Grounds
11 minutes' walk
A serene park honoring local war heroes, featuring pleasant walking paths and picnic areas for relaxation.
Akaroa Dolphins
11 minutes' walk
A chance to view playful Hector's dolphins in their natural habitat through eco-friendly boat tours.
Swimming with Dolphins
11 minutes' walk
With guided tours available, experience an unforgettable adventure swimming alongside dolphins in Akaroa's waters.
Hiking Stony Bay Peak
5 minutes' walk
A short trail leading to stunning panoramic views of the peninsula, suitable for both seasoned hikers and families.
Relaxing at Childrens Bay
5 minutes' walk
A calm beach perfect for families, featuring safe swimming areas, picnic spots, and beautiful coastal scenery.
Ma Maison Restaurant & Bar
Ma Maison Restaurant & Bar
1 minute' walk
Offers a cozy atmosphere with local dishes; known for its fresh seafood and delightful desserts. Reservations recommended.
The Brasserie Kitchen And Bar
The Brasserie Kitchen And Bar
3 minutes' walk
A lively spot with a diverse menu; highlights include gourmet burgers and craft beers in a relaxed setting.
Waffle Haus Akaroa
Waffle Haus Akaroa
2 minutes' walk
Specializes in sweet and savory waffles; popular for brunch, with vegetarian options available. Casual dining atmosphere.
Orion Powerhouse Gallery
Orion Powerhouse Gallery
5 minutes' walk
Features local artwork and hosts exhibitions, providing a cultural vibe that appeals to art lovers and casual visitors.
Akaroa Main Wharf
11 minutes' walk
A hub for various events and activities, including boat tours and markets with local crafts. Suitable for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Akaroa3 min  ·  700 ft
Airports
Christchurch (CHC)131 min  ·  54.3 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-20:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs NZD 16 per person per day. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
12

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Akaroa Criterion Motel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 515 verified reviews
9.4/10
Perfect
99%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.6/10
Comfort
9.6/10
Facilities
9.3/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Location
9.7/10
Staff
9.7/10
Value for money
9.1/10
Guest reviews
based on 991 reviews
9.3/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Akaroa Criterion Motel
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Akaroa Criterion Motel?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
How far is Akaroa Criterion Motel from Christchurch?
The hotel is located 90 km from Christchurch.
What nearby attractions can guests visit from Akaroa Criterion Motel?
Guests can visit Akaroa Heritage Park (3 km), The Giants House (1 km), and the Marine Reserve for dolphin swimming (3 km).
What are the parking facilities at Akaroa Criterion Motel?
Free private parking is available on-site without a reservation requirement.
What amenities do the rooms at Akaroa Criterion Motel include?
Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, underfloor heating, coffee/tea making facilities, and some rooms feature balconies or patios with harbour views.
Is Wi-Fi available at Akaroa Criterion Motel?
Free Wi-Fi of 500MB per day is available in each room.
What activities can guests enjoy while staying at Akaroa Criterion Motel?
On-site activities include hiking, cycling, canoeing, fishing, and walking tours.
Is breakfast available at Akaroa Criterion Motel?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 16 NZD.

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