The township of Akaroa is located on the eastern shores of Akaroa harbour which forms part of Banks Peninsula, a little over 8 kilometres from the headlands and almost 7 kilometres from the head of the harbour. It is reached by travelling along State Highway 75 or by a secondary route which runs across the hills above Akaroa and meets the highway before the entry to the township. Both these routes offer magnificent views over the Akaroa crater and harbour. Akaroa was settled in 1840 by a small group of French immigrants who were later joined by British settlers. The town retains evidence of its heritage as an early settlement and to some extent as a settlement of French origin. The combination of Akaroa's landscape setting and its heritage go towards the creation of a townscape with considerable character and aesthetic appeal, as well as opportunities for recreation.
The purpose of this study is to relate an appreciation of the historical background of the town to its present and future development. By assessing the visual character of the community and defining the elements contributing to that character. To formulate means to retain and reinforce the visual and social identity of the community. By specifying appropriate and inappropriate forms of development and areas where development should be carefully controlled. Finally to formulate design proposals and guidelines to promote a better quality of landscape throughout Akaroa, and in particular protect and reinforce the qualities of those areas of special value to the character of Akaroa.[Show full abstract]
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