The Breeze 61

Posted on February 19, 2012 by Hairy

Thanks for taking some time to scan our latest news and events. Below you will find some information on the biggest dolphins on them all – the mighty Orca through to the smallest – hectors dolphins calves. There are also details of local events in Diamond Harbour and Akaroa along with confirmation of our top rating as voted by members of the AA.

Cheers Paul

Orca visits much more frequent

We started cruising Banks Peninsula in 1985 and over the next 21 years we reckon we had only 5 visits in total from Orca. So why have we had 5 visits in the last 12 months? More than likely it’s related to Orca chasing food in Akaroa and Lyttelton harbours. They sure do scare our local population of Hectors dolphins though and that’s not surprising! Click here for a blog including views from marine scientist Liz Slooten.

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Lyttelton’s Best Attractions

Posted on February 9, 2012 by Blackcat

Lyttelton is just 13km from Christchurch and is a fantastic place to visit especially on a weekend.  Take the number 28 bus from Christchurch or its an easy 15 minute drive from central Christchurch.  This quirky historical town has seen much damage since the earthquakes in Canterbury but is definitely on the mend.  The locals are vibrant, fiercly loyal and very proactive when it comes to keeping their community alive and consequently there is always something going on in and around the township.

13km from Christchurch

Lyttelton Harbour

The Farmers market every Saturday morning from 10am-1pm is a must do and has become extremely popular with people travelling from afar to buy and sample delicious local goodies.  When you are done with purchasing your produce and fresh food for the week you can amble along to Oxford Street where there is a large community garage sale which also runs from 10am-1pm.

From there you will most probably be in need of lunch and refreshments to replenish your energy for the afternoons attractions.  Head to the Fishermans Wharf on Norwich Quay which is open 7 days a week for the best fish & chips or seafood chowder.  Or walk to Corsair Bay to Freemans Restaurant.

The afternoons activities could include a visit to the Torpedo Boat Museum open Tuesday/thursday/Saturday & Sunday or play a game of petanque on London Street.

15 minute ferry ride from Lyttelton

Quail Island lookout

One of best things to do in Lyttelton in the summer is to take a ferry from B Jetty on the wharf to Quail Island.  Black Cat Cruises run this ferry daily from October to the end of April.  For more on Quail Island click here

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10 Reasons to visit Diamond Harbour this summer

Posted on February 2, 2012 by Blackcat

Diamond Harbour is one of the sunniest and unspoilt destinations on Banks Peninsula and is great for a day trip. Getting there is easy, the best option is to take the Diamond Harbour Ferry from Lyttelton harbour (departs from B Jetty).  Black Cat Cruises run the ferry over there on a regular basis throughout the day.  check out the website for timetable information and more.

The Black Diamond boat

Diamond Harbour ferry video

Top 10 things to do while there:-

1.  Ferry/biking.  Bring your bike on the ferry from Lyttelton and after biking around Diamond Harbour, ride back to Lyttelton again.

2.  Ferry/picnicking. From Lyttelton take the ferry to Diamond Harbour and either bring your own picnic to have in the domain or buy some food from the Harbour store and have it by the beach or in the garden at Stoddart Cottage

3.  Walks. Cliff track which starts near the jetty.  From the jetty up through the village and down to Puaru and maybe up the Camp Bay Road for a great view of the harbour from the “other side”.  Orton Bradley Park has many walks on offer including Mt Herbert (you will need all day for this one!!)

4.  Live Music. Picnic on the grass in front of the Diamond Harbour Community Hall and listen to the great music on offer each Sunday from 12-3pm.  Bring your own lunch or buy it from the store.  Coffee, fish & chips and cakes for sales.

5.  Golf. There is a beautiful golf course at Charteris Bay.  Awesome views.

6.  Swimming. Four wonderful beaches to choose from – Diamond Harbour beach, Paradise Bay, Purau and Camp Bay.

7.  Market.  Purau produce group market from 9am – 12pm fortnightly

8.  Dancing. From March, Argentine Tango/Zumba will be running

9.  Coffee. For the best coffee in Diamond Harbour, take a ferry ride, stroll up the hill and have something to eat and a coffee at the Diamond Harbour Store.

10.  Lazy Sunday’s listening to music.

Sunday afternoon live music is happening right through the summer in Diamond Harbour.
Come on over and join in for chilled out, lazy summer Sundays (almost) like they used to be!
Sunday 5th February The Eastern 12noon to 3.00pm
Sunday 12th February Justine and Harry Harrison 12noon to 2.00pm
D.I.Y duo 2.00pm to 4.00pm
Sunday 19th February Paul Ubana Jones 12noon to 3.00pm
Sunday 26th February Various Artists! Will be a great day! Starts from 12 noon

click here for more info on the above and what to do in Diamond Harbour.

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Orca Visits to Banks Peninsula

Posted on January 9, 2012 by Blackcat

Why have pods of Orca been seen more often in Akaroa and Lyttelton Harbours lately?

orca-pod

Black Cat have been cruising around Akaroa Harbour since 1985 and the original skipper, Ron Bingham, recalls seeing Orca only 5 times from 1985 to 2006, a period of 21 years cruising. In the last 12 months alone we’ve seen pods on no fewer than 5 occasions in Akaroa or Lyttelton.

Orca are sometimes known as Killer whales but that’s only because they were sometimes known to actually hunt and kill large baleen whales, i.e. killer of whales. They are actually the classified as a dolphin! There are no known reports of Orca attacking humans in the wild. Though there have been some instances where Orca in captivity have killed or injured their trainers. Continue reading →

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What’s open in Akaroa this Christmas Day

Posted on December 22, 2011 by Blackcat

Akaroa Christmas Day

Open:

The Akaroa Visitor Centre wharf cabin will be open from 8am until 3pm.

Retail:

  • New Zealand Inspired (10.00am-5.00pm)
  • Fire & Ice
  • Pot Pourri (10.00am-5.00pm)
  • Mr Whippy Truck
  • Ma Cherie (9.00am-5.30pm)
  • Studio 67(9.00am-5.30pm)
  • Faultline Gallery (9.30am – 4.30pm)
  • The Akaroa Supply Store (10.00am-4.00pm)
  • The Koru Gallery (9.30am-5.00pm)
  • The Weighbridge (10.00am-4.00pm)
  • Woolshed Gallery
  • Woolworx
  • Beach Road (9.00-4.00pm)
  • Akaroa Chemist (10.00am-3.00pm)
  • The Akaroa Blue Pearl Gallery
  • Black Cat Beach Road Shop
  • Hetties

Activities:

  • The Giants House (1.00pm-4.00pm)
  • Shamarra Alpacas-Tour leaving Akaroa at 12.30pm. 2 hour long trip. Can take 6 persons. Doing own pick up from wharf
  • Black Cat Cruises- Both the Akaroa Harbour Cruise and Swimming with Dolphins operatingCruise 9am (Charter), 11am, 1.30pm. Christmas day prices: $85 Adults and $30 Children.

    Swimming with Dolphins 9am, 12pm and 2pm. Christmas day prices apply.

  • Akaroa Jet-4 trips, at 11.30am, 1pm, 2.15pm, 3.30pm. 1 hour long trips. $64 for adults. $34 for children. Can take 18 persons per trip
  • A Class Sailing-2 tours. 2.5 hour tour. $75pp. No children under 12. 10.30am tour (10.15 boarding). 1.30pm tour (1.15 boarding). 20 spaces per trip
  • Fox 2 Sailing-10.30am & 1.30pm tour. $70 per adult, $30 per child. Can take 30 per trip.
  • Akaroa Shuttle-10.30 am bus service from Akaroa to Christchurch, return at 3 pm. Akaroa arrival; 4.30pm  37 seats available). 1 hour tours- 9.30 am, 11am, 12.30 pm & 2 pm. $25pp per tour. The tour goes up to the Summit Road, Robinsons Bay and then back to Akaroa
  • A Classic Ride- Honda Goldwing & Sidecar tours

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The Breeze 60

Posted on November 28, 2011 by Hairy

Let me be one of the first to wish you a merry Christmas! We are gearing up for our busy season in what will truly go down as a year never to be forgotten. I’d like to thank you for supporting Black Cat over 2011. There has been a lot of TV coverage for Akaroa recently with whales, French rugby supporters, a world famous conservationist and an Aussie weather man all visiting our town. Along with the cruise ships it’s sure to create lots of buzz for our summer season. We are looking forward in a positive manner and proceeding with a staff head count at only marginally behind a normal year. More info here in this link.  We hope to see you out on the water this summer.

Cheers Paul

Whales Honeymoon in Akaroa

It was great to see two rare Southern Right whales hang out in Akaroa Harbour for a week. Whale sightings have become more common for us recently but these ones parked up for a 7 days on an apparent honeymoon. Our team thought the male was interested in mating and the female not so much. Her behaviour included tail slapping, and swimming upside down. This behaviour is like saying ‘no thanks’. The male response was lots of breaching (jumping out of the water) and hanging about. Does all this sound familiar?! The whales attracted national media interest and here is TV3’s news report.

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13 Things to do in Akaroa

Posted on November 13, 2011 by Blackcat

If you’re looking for somewhere to holiday in the South Island, Akaroa is a great place to spend a few days. In a post-earthquake Canterbury, Akaroa is unharmed and is a great place to go to get away from it all.

Banks Peninsula Walking Track

These walks are a great way to explore the Banks Peninsula area and there are different options for walkers of all levels. All tracks start and finish in Akaroa and trampers can choose a two or four day walk, staying in huts along the way. This sort of walking holiday is an ideal way to experience the remote sights of the Banks Peninsula.

banks-peninsula-track

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Things to do in Christchurch Post-Earthquake

Posted on November 8, 2011 by Blackcat

Here’s an updated list of what’s open in Christchurch after the earthquake – and also in the surrounding area. If you know other things please add them into the comments below so everyone knows!

Pop Up Mall

A revamped version of the Cashel Street mall was reopened at the end of October 2011. Temporary shops made from shipping containers make a colourful addition to city’s centre as it gradually reopens. The mall is home to 27 shops and is worth going to look at even if shopping is not on your agenda.

pop-up-mall

Black Cat Cruises

Stationed out in Akaraoa Harbour, the daily Black Cat cruise is a fantastic way to explore the area. There are cruises which are the best way to see the volcanic outer harbor and there is also the chance to see dolphins, seals and penguins in their natural habitat. There are also tours where you can swim with the dolphins. Just over an hour’s drive from Christchurch, Black Cat cruises are a perfect activity for all ages, and if you want to bring the kids along there are great rates for children.

black-cat-cruises

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Romantic Akaroa

Posted on September 27, 2011 by Blackcat

Planning a romantic weekend in Akaroa?

Peaceful Akaroa

Akaroa is the perfect place to go to for a romantic escape from the stresses of city life. The town has retained its ‘French Village’ character with many colonial-style buildings and French street names and throw mix in the ambience of a small seaside settlement with lots of cafes, restaurants and galleries and it’s just made for a lovely night away.

Driving over from Christchurch its worth stopping at Little River and visiting the cafe and art gallery, then once up the top of the Hill Top Pass Akaroa is revealed in the distance with quite an amazing view.

The key is staying somewhere that fits the bill and the Akaroa Country House and Tree Crop Farm are two very special spots.

Akaroa Country House

Akaroa Country House is very private with the cottage two hundred metres away from the main house down a pathway. The cottage is beside a small stream and has an outside bath, perfect for candlelight stargazing and is situated up secluded Takamatua Valley, amongst the native forest.

If you want something a little different Tree Crop Farm is well worth a visit. Also set in amongst the lovely native forest, many of the individual cabins do not have power, but they do have loads of candles and big fireplaces.

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The Breeze 58

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Hairy

Spring is here and its time to look forward to summer. Over the winter months we’ve been planning and preparing to welcome visitors this season. Around 80 cruise ships have selected Akaroa as their Canterbury base this season which should really add some buzz to the town. Of course the buzz right now is about the world cup so we are wishing our boys all the best and of course the profile the event will create around the world will be huge. Also in this Breeze are details of our new treasure hunt, Lyttelton to France cruise and our latest promotions. Thanks for reading in advance.

Cheers Paul

Dolphins up close

If you have ever wondered how close we get to the rare Hector’s dolphins then this picture sums it up! So close in fact that not all of the dolphin fitted into the frame with its leap almost knocking the camera out of the guide’s hands. In truth this is a little unusual. Like us, teenage dolphins can get a bit excited sometimes and this one may have slightly misjudged his jump. An incredible sight for all on board though.

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What is seasickness, how can you avoid it, and what to do when you get it?

Posted on August 15, 2011 by Blackcat

One of the biggest and most annoying irritations when going on a cruise or swimming with dolphins is seasickness.  Fortunately Black Cat Cruises operate in the sheltered waters of Akaroa Harbour, but sometimes when the swell is particularly large, or the dolphins we are trying to locate are slightly out of the harbour, we encounter turbulence and the resulting seasickness for some of our clients.

As a sufferer myself, it is extremely annoying when you seem to be the only one on the boat going green!! .  So I decided to look into this phenomenon and see if I can pass on any words of wisdom to help prevent seasickness for my fellow sufferers.

Firstly, what is it? Motion sickness is a conflict between your senses.  The fluid filled canal in your inner ear tells your brain that you are moving while your eyes tell your brain that you are not!!  That conflict can cause your body to be out of balance.

What to do to try and avoid it: –

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East Coast of the South Island Sightseeing Guide

Posted on July 28, 2011 by Blackcat

The East Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is a place of contrast, beauty and history. Sightseeing options during your holidays here range from colonial towns and sleepy Maori fishing villages, to vibrant cities such as Dunedin and Christchurch. Things to do on the South Island East Coast include getting close to nature, wine tasting or getting a taste of history.

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Whale Watching in Akaroa

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Blackcat

With a coastline of approximately 15,000 kilometres New Zealanders have always had and continue to have a close affinity with the ocean. Working within a company whose occupation it is to take passengers out on harbour cruises and swimming with the dolphins we the staff at Black Cat Cruises are at the heart of it all and have been fortunate to have had special encounters with some of the less common, larger marine creatures.

The latest exciting visitors to the peninsula waters have been the migrating Humpback whales. During the summer months the Humpback whales are down in their feeding grounds in Antarctic waters but during the winter months they make their way to their tropical South Pacific breeding grounds. Passing by in New Zealand’s coastal waters provides opportunities for Kiwis and ocean-goers alike to have close encounters with these whales. Humpback whales are easily identified by their distinctive knobbly dorsal fin, large pectoral fins (their scientific name Megaptera novaeangliae means big wings of New England) and heads covered with bumps (tubercles). They can grow to lengths of 15 metres, weigh between 30 – 40 tonnes and are known for their ‘singing’ and playful acrobatics. They are a baleen whale feeding by surging through the water with an open mouth then filtering the krill and fish from the water through their baleen (long keratin plates hanging from the top of the mouth).

Humpbacks are a stocky whale, meaning they are generally slow moving which not only makes them perfect for whale watching but made them a popular target for whalers in New Zealand waters during the 1800 and 1900’s. The Humpbacks were such an easy target that the reduction in their population reached a point that there were no individuals seen passing through the Cook Strait; normally a regular path made annually on their way north. Whaling stopped in New Zealand in 1964 and since then their population has been increasing with as many as 43 individual Humpbacks seen during a four week survey in the Cook Strait in 2010 and a record number of 73 for the 2011 survey.

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The Breeze 57

Posted on June 20, 2011 by Hairy

The shortest day is nearly upon us and whilst many are hoping it’s about to snow the fine weather has been great for cruising. We’ve had some special sightings of whales recently and hosted some VIPs including the former mayor of San Francisco and a NZ sports legend. We’re also looking forward to next summer already with many cruise ships confirming Akaroa as their Canterbury stop and also plans for a huge French Fest. In the meantime thanks for your continued support. We are operating right through the winter season every day.

Cheers Paul

Whalely Good Month

groupWhales

Humpback whales have been spotted off the Akaroa heads three times in the last week. Southern Ocean humpbacks migrate thousands of kilometres between Antarctica and sub-tropical waters this time of year. The route takes then right past Banks Peninsula. On one of the trips we had 16 travel agents from America on board providing an unforgettable cruise. View the whale video and read the coverage from The Press.

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11 Things to do With Kids in Akaroa

Posted on April 5, 2011 by Blackcat

I grew up in Akaroa so I’m really surprised when I hear people say there is not much for children to do in the town, and that the hot pools of Hamner are a better bet. Sure the pools are a must do but you can’t go there every weekend and Akaroa offers something different for families.

Now I have my own family, I can show them the hours of fun that can be had in and around Akaroa. Here are my top tips for entertaining the kids in Akaroa, many of these are free. Continue reading →

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Snooze and Cruise Option for Akaroa

Posted on April 3, 2011 by Blackcat

Christchurch Airport to Akaroa


Despite Akaroa’s close proximity to Christchurch, and our location on the other side of Banks Peninsula from Lyttelton, the resort township is unaffected by the Christchurch earthquake. All the cafes, restaurants, shops and accommodation businesses are operating as usual, with all the charm and atmosphere visitors have come to expect.

At Black Cat we are keen to see visitors who may have originally planned to spend time in the Garden City come directly to Akaroa to relax and enjoy what our beautiful location has to offer. Browse some reviews and comments about our lovely town. Continue reading →

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Swimming with wild dolphins

Posted on March 27, 2011 by Blackcat

Swimming With Wild Dolphins in New Zealand – by Deneice Athurston

I admit it – I’m a dolphin swim junkie and probably nowhere on the planet can I indulge this passion as much as in New Zealand. What makes New Zealand so special with regards to swimming with wild dolphins is that there are so many companies to choose from and each offer something a little different depending on where they are located and the species of dolphin that hang around that area. Continue reading →

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Shaken but not diSTIRbed

Posted on March 3, 2011 by Blackcat

There are two things that struck me most when the devasting earthquake in Christchurch

The peaceful seaside village of Akaroa

struck on the 22nd of February.  The first was how powerful it is and how powerless you feel.  There is nothing to do but sit (or hide) and wait until it is over.  Then there’s the reality that hits almost immediately that you are still alive and panic sets in as you fumble with your cell phone and try to get hold of loved ones.  It took me what seemed like forever to get the presence of mind to remember how to work the phone, my fingers were trembling so much and I temporarily forgot how to send a txt!!

The second thing is the randomness of it.  There is no warning, and how bazaar is it that Continue reading →

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Christchurch Earthquake Update

Posted on March 1, 2011 by Blackcat

One of the many damaged buildings after the devastating Christchurch earthquake

We extend our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the Christchurch earthquake on Feb 22nd.

For the benefit of our passengers and those looking to get away from the city, we want to let you know that everything is fully operational in Akaroa. Businesses and homes were not affected by the earthquake. Continue reading →

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Queen Mary visit cancelled

Posted on February 24, 2011 by Blackcat

Due to the earthquake in Christchurch and Canterbury on February 22nd, the visit to Lyttelton by the Queen Mary cruise liner has been cancelled.

http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90777/90851/7297255.html has additional information.

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Top 10 Places: Where to Swim with Dolphins

Posted on February 14, 2011 by Blackcat

New Zealand is home to 11 types of dolphins, and there are a handful of places in the country where you can swim with the playful creatures.  Have you ever wondered where else in the world you can swim with dolphins?  We have!  We did a little research and came up with this round-up of our top 10 picks for swimming with dolphins around the world. Continue reading →

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Queen Mary 2 Cruise Ship : Escorting out of Lyttelton Harbour

Posted on February 13, 2011 by Blackcat

Have you ever seen a cruise ship up close?  We see about 50 cruise ships a year docking in Lyttleton Harbour, and the sheer size of these ships never stops impressing us!  When we witness just how large these ships can be, we have to take a moment to consider what a feat of human ingenuity they are.

Cruise ships in Lyttelton

The Queen Mary 2

In January, the massive Diamond Princess Cruise Ship docked in Lyttelton and Black Cat was given the privilege of escorting the ship out of the harbour.  We gave our guests a very special two-hour ride alongside the Diamond Princess as she left Lyttelton for open sea.  A unique and memorable experience for everyone!

We had such a great time with the Diamond Princess that when we heard about the iconic Queen Mary 2 (QM2) docking in Lyttelton on the 26th of February, we jumped at the chance to escort this impressive ocean liner. Continue reading →

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Things to do in Christchurch on a Long Weekend

Posted on February 11, 2011 by Blackcat

Check out our most recent blog post about what is open in Christchurch since the earthquakes.

New Zealand is known for its outdoor adventures: for glaciers and fjords, volcanoes and pristine beaches. And while New Zealanders do love to be outside, the fact is that most of us live in developed urban areas.

Living in cities doesn’t mean we spend all our time in air-conditioned shopping malls and enjoy your time in Christchurch, like a true Cantabrian.

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Christchurch Sightseeing Tours & Wildlife Encounters

Posted on February 10, 2011 by Blackcat

Welcome to Christchurch!  We live in a diverse and scenic city, and while many visitors are attracted to the South Island for Alps and fjords, don’t discount the

sumner-beach-christchurch

Sumner Beach Christchurch. Photo credit: Flickr

city of Christchurch for some excellent sightseeing options.  New Zealand’s second largest city and the biggest on the South Island, Christchurch has plenty for you to do and see during your stay.

A charming coastal city surrounded by scenic hills…  It doesn’t get much better.

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Ripapa Island testimonial

Posted on February 9, 2011 by Blackcat

View to Ripapa Island

“Thanks for organising our trip to Ripapa Island with our holiday programme.  We wish to give positive feedback on the whole experience.  We were greeted on time and by your friendly staff.  Our group of young people aged 9-12 really enjoyed seeing the tunnels, guns and going to a place only 2 of them had ever been too before.  The information given in the museum was well received, not too long, but long enough!  We were very impressed with the young lady who took charge on the day, who took us through the formal programme and then allowing us the flexibility and freedom for the kids to do their own exploring, while also making boundaries clear.  This free time was definitely a good part of the day.”

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Banking on the Banks Peninsula

Posted on February 9, 2011 by Blackcat

A great blog post about Akaroa:

“Two extinct volcanoes. Two harbours. One drop dead gorgeous peninsula just over the hill from Christchurch.

When I finally score the real ‘Bank Error in Your Favour’ card instead of Monopoly’s version, I’m going to buy a ‘bach’ in Akaroa, the faux-French heart of the Banks Peninsula. Once a French colonial outpost from the era when the French and English were competing for dominion in the Antipodes, it has tenaciously held on to its short-lived French-ified past.”

Read the full blog post.

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Black Cat Leads the Pack in Eco-tourism

Posted on January 30, 2011 by Blackcat

Black Cat may be well known as a tourism operator, but did you know that we’re also a leader in environmental management?  From reducing energy consumption to donating a portion of every passenger fare to dolphin conservation, Black Cat takes extra measures to ensure the preservation of our environment.

New Zealand’s first eco-tourism operator

Established in 1985 as Akaroa Harbour Cruises, we can claim to be New Zealand’s first eco-tourism enterprise.  We launched with the intention of showing off Hector’s dolphins as well as the other creatures and scenery of Banks Peninsula.  Naturally, such a reliance on the natural environment encouraged Black Cat to foster a keen interest in maintaining the health and beauty of Akaroa Harbour right from the start.

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A Unique Venue for your Function!

Posted on January 26, 2011 by Blackcat

Did you know that you can charter Black Cat boats for private events?  Our Canterbury Cat and Black Cat catamarans comfortably hold up to 80 people, providing the perfect venue for a unique and enjoyable function.

A smooth evening

From entertaining clients and staff to celebrating with friends and family, chartered cruises are a memorable choice.  Our experienced staff will make sure the evening runs smoothly, and the natural beauty of Banks Peninsula guarantees an unforgettable event. Continue reading →

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Day trip to Quail Island

Posted on January 24, 2011 by Blackcat

Quail Island lies in the flooded crater of an extinct volcano, a short Black Cat ferry ride from Lyttleton.  While it is Canterbury’s largest island, Quail Island is only 81 hectares in area and easily explored in half a day.  Rich in history and boasting a wealth of activities, the uninhabited island makes for a fascinating day trip from Christchurch. Continue reading →

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Help Protect our Friendliest Dolphin

Posted on January 10, 2011 by Blackcat


Hector’s dolphins are the highlight of many Black Cat cruises, and rightfully so.  Known to be the smallest and friendliest dolphin species, Hector’s are found only in New Zealand.  Aside from their playful dispositions, the dolphins are notable for their rounded dorsal fins and short snouts.

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