Alpaca Farm Tour with Shamarra Alpacas | Akaroa | Shaara Deals

"If you've ever dreamed of escaping to a place of warm hugs and postcard-perfect surroundings, welcome." That's how Shamarra Alpacas introduces its Alpaca Farm Tour — a 1 hour (approx.) experience on the slopes of an extinct volcano overlooking Akaroa Harbour. From $60, this Canterbury farm tour is now bookable on Shaara Deals.

Shamarra Alpacas is just over an hour's drive (73km) from Christchurch Central, and only 20 minutes from the historic seaside village of Akaroa. The operator describes the farm's panoramic views of Akaroa harbour and the surrounding valleys as "breath-taking," open year round with scenery that "changes beautifully through each season" while the alpacas "stay cute throughout."

The tour itinerary, as described by Shamarra Alpacas:

• A brief introduction to alpacas and their "unique and quirky habits," plus a safety briefing before meeting the herd

• A chance to feel an award-winning alpaca fleece — "the incredible cashmere-like softness of superfine alpaca" — while learning about its qualities

• A walk through the alpaca herd, interacting with the animals as they graze, with insight into Shamarra's sustainable farming practices

• Feeding the mother alpacas with their young by their side, for close-up contact and photos

• Time to take in the "absolutely phenomenal" views across Akaroa harbour

• A beverage and one of Shamarra's home-baked cookies to finish

• A browse of the Shamarra Alpaca Shop, a boutique collection of "luxurious, natural and 100% dye-free alpaca knitwear made in New Zealand" (with worldwide shipping via their online shop for anyone who has to dash off)

Practical details: tours run at 11am, 1pm and 4pm, seven days a week (closed Christmas Day), and bookings are essential. NZ SuperGold card holders can enquire about a $55 rate. Note that Shamarra Alpacas does not offer transportation to the farm, so visitors will need their own way there.

Cancellation policy: a full refund (less a 5% processing fee) is available for cancellations more than 24 hours before the tour; cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Full details, availability and booking: https://shaaradeals.co.nz/deal/6a30f417d0c5712fee0560cf