About

The stunning seaside community of Akaroa, Banks Peninsula is just over the hill from Christchurch. French Fest was first held in Akaroa in 1997 and the festival is now produced by the Christchurch City Council on behalf of the Akaroa Heritage Festival Society.

A celebration of all things Gallic, the festival embraces the unique beauty, culture and heritage of New Zealand’s sole French settlement and boutique destination right on our doorstep. Visitors can delve into Akaroa’s 19th Century history while revelling in all the contemporary colour and fun that the 2013 Piper Heidsieck French Fest brings to this harbourside village.

Festival goers will enjoy a selection of live music and theatrical entertainment from across the country; Le Jour du Marché, a market day in true French style inviting indulgence with a wide range of French-themed stalls including fine wine, cuisine, produce, arts and crafts; a host of games, competitions and craft activities to keep children entertained; and on the second day, a French Cricket tournament following the International Code and featuring celebrity New Zealand cricketers.


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Getting There

Akaroa is “just over the hill” from Christchurch, only 75 kilometres by road from Christchurch via State Highway 75 (about 1.5 hours driving time). Extra parking during the festival is located at the Akaroa Area School, on Rue Jolie. Travel options include taking the festival shuttle direct from Christchurch to Piper Heidsieck French Fest, or catching a chartered bus with Red Bus.