Akora, New Zealand

Quaint boutiques are filled with local handicrafts like Maori carved jade pendants. // (c) 2008 Deborah Dimond

Explore the village with its colonial architecture, craft stores, and cafe // (c) Deborah Dimond

There are activities for everyone including wildlife cruises, sailing, swimming with the dolphins, boat hire and sea kayaking. // (c) 2008 Deborah Dimond

What looks like a lake is actually an ocean inlet. This habitat hosts a variety of sea and bird life including the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin, the Hectors Dolphin. There are plenty of tour operators that offer swimming with the dolphins. // (c) 2008 Deborah Dimond

An hour's drive from Christchurch, Akoroa is an historic French and British settlement located in the center of an ancient volcano. // (c) 2008 Deborah Dimond