Restaurants in Akaroa

It always surprises me that good restaurants come and go with frightening regularity in Akaroa. I think it says something about the service and the winter downturn in tourism. Of those that endure, Ma Maison, 2 Rue Jolie (tel. 03/304-7668; www.mamaison.co.nz), is a good bet for a tasty meal without too many frills. Set away from the main street, it's a great place to look out over the water. The Akaroa Bakery, 51 Beach Rd. (tel. 03/304-7663), open daily from 7:30am to 4pm, has specialty breads, sandwiches, pies, and cakes baked fresh daily - a great choice for picnic fare.