The small town of Duvauchelle (Māori: Kaitouna) is separated from Barrys Bay by the Onawe Peninsula and located at the head of Akaroa Harbour. It is part of the Christchurch City Council jurisdiction after the city’s amalgamation with Banks Peninsula District in 2006.

The name Duvauchelle comes from two brothers, Jules and Louis Benjamin Duvauchelle who were originally from the Rue on the Somme. They became land owners in the area in the 1840s. In the years to come the land near Duvauchelle Bay was leased from the Canterbury Association by British settlers and an most of the economic activity was centred around timber (specifically Totara tree’s) and boat building.

Jules Duvauchelle arrived in Akaroa aboard the Sancta Maria. He possessed good knowledge of both English and Maori and was therefore provided with house in Akaroa where he established a store near Bruce’s hotel. The general store did well trading with both local residents and whalers.

Today the area is known a picturesque settlement with French/English heritage. The area is known for its walking and boating as well as the local cafés and restaurants.