RECREATION
Amazing adventures at sea For local and international visitors alike, Banks Peninsula has much to offer: amazing wildlife, the world’s rarest dolphins, wide views of giant volcanic cliffs, undiscovered beaches, as well as the Akaroa township to enjoy and explore.
B
lack Cat Cruises offer visitors a plethora of activities: swimming with dolphins, harbour cruises, trips to Quail Island, Diamond Harbour and Lyttelton, even private charters. This year marks the company's 30th year of operation, quite an achievement considering it was set up with one exfishing boat, which carried eight passengers. Today there are seven vessels, carrying up to 99 passengers. Facilities include hot water to warm swimmers up and tea and coffee facilities. The visitor numbers are up to 3.5 million passengers annually and Black Cat Cruises are putting on an extra boat this summer to cope with the demand. “Canterbury, particularly in terms of international visitors, will probably have a record number this year,” says Tim Hunter,
chief executive of Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism (CCT). Visitors get to enjoy a once in a lifetime experience, view the world's smallest and rarest dolphins and their calves, seal pups, and all in a unique volcanic crater. “There are plenty of opportunities for locals to experience their own back yard, we offer a trip to Quail Island for family picnics and cater for private functions: birthdays, 21sts, and Christmas functions. We are flexible and can take guests to find a sheltered bay to enjoy their event,” adds Paul Milligan, Chief Executive Black Cat Cruises. For more information go to www.blackcat.co.nz, or phone (03) 304 7641.
A unique opportunity to visit markets, vide-greniers and brocante dealers in the Loire Valley, to buy with our expert assistance, and have your treasures shipped home. Small, intimate groups of six, a well-planned itinerary with seven nights accommodation in a 12th century Benedictine priory. .
September 5th to 12th or September 13th to 20th For more information: www.foundinfrance.co.nz 03 304 8760 029 770 5153
French Language & Cultural Centre
Enrolments all levels, beginners to advanced
913 Colombo Street Christchurch Ph. 365 8370 enquiries@afchristchurch.org.nz www.afchristchurch.org.nz Metropol January 28, 2016 35