French flair: French style and Kiwi colonial character combine in a grand old home in Akaroa

摘要

From the balcony of their renovated 1910 home, Bruce and Carol Hyland gaze out at the sparkling waters of Akaroa harbour. Children are playing on the beach, yachts bob gently at anchor, the scent of lemons fills the air. If you had stood here in 1840you would have seen French ships loaded with settlers sailing into the harbour. French street names such as Rue Benoit and Rue Lavaud remain. "If you're not already sold on Akaroa driving over the hilltop, this will do it," says Bruce as he surveys the view.