banks peninsula track

My wife and I booked this walk to bridge a gap in our itinerary. It turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. This was a terrific walk with varied terrain encompassing ‘fell’ walking, bush (fantails ahoy!) and rugged coastal path.A little guidebook and map is provided at the start of the walk but frankly it is almost impossible to get lost on this walk it is so well signposted. Follow the posts with the white paint at the top and you will not go wrong.We (both in our late fifties) opted to do the 2-day walk, which we found fairly straightforward. Total walking time on each day was around 6 hours. There is around 600 metres of ascent on each day but anyone who is reasonably fit should have no problem with walk.We were blessed with beautiful weather on both days (warm to hot, sunny and a faint breeze). I guess it would be a harder walk in less favourable conditions especially as you are quite exposed in the stretch between Flea Bay and Otanerito. The path is very good throughout the walk although a little narrow in places on the coastal stretch between Flea Bay and Otanerito. In these sections fences have been erected at potentially hazardous points and warning notices posted where appropriate.We had the luxury of sole occupancy of the 2-day walkers hut as the other 2 booked guests failed to show. Even if they had turned up there was plenty of room at Onuku and Stony Bay for a party of 4. You will love the shower at Stony Bay ☺.I actually think the people who run the walk undersell the facilities available. Although we did not overnight at Flea Bay and Otanerito, we did stop at both on route to make a pot of tea. Both places were very nice and I’m sure the 4-day walkers had a comfortable time there.The shops at Stony Bay and Otanerito were very well stocked. There is also a limited range of drinks and snacks available at Flea Bay. It would be an even better walk if the folks at Flea Bay could offer the same level of service as the other 2 huts.I’m glad we did the 2-day walk, as days 2 and 3 of the 4-day walk are very short. Too short for our taste. In an ideal world there would be a third option of doing the walk over 3 days with overnights at Onuku, Flea Bay and Otanerito. I do appreciate this would be logistically difficult for the organisers. Overall we had a great time and if we return to New Zealand I would consider spending more time in Akaroa and doing this walk again.

This tramp is a must for anyone visiting Akaroa and Christchurch. It is only 35 km long but has some grunty sections particularly on the first and last days of this 4 day tramp. You will need to have stout footwear as this is proper tramping with some rough terrain especially on the downhill sections. Boots with firm soles and ankle support are recommended. The views are spectacular and if you are lucky you may get to sea a pod of the extremely rare Hectors dolphins frolicking in one of the bays. The accommodation along the way is cozy and sometimes a bit quirky especially at Stony Bay. Some people choose to do this tramp in two days; however the four day trip lends itself to the opportunity to follow the numerous diversions and enjoy the facilities at the various farmhouse accommodation. Provisions from fresh vegetables, meat, canned goods, confectionery, wine and beer, can be purchased at each the three accommodation places. Your back packs can be transported to the next layover each day so you only need to burden yourself with a day pack. You will also benefit from being out of reach from civilization as there is no cellphone coverage. The night sky on a clear night is absolutely amazing. Some people sleep in the stargazer cabins to make the most of this. I thoroughly recommend this experience.

Having just finished the 4 day tramp through some amazing New Zealand countryside with tremendous sea vistas, flora and fauna I am so pleased we ticked this one off the list as it was special and we live in the area ! There were definitely some parts that were more strenuous than others but overall it was pretty straightforward. There are plenty of places to stop and be diverted to with signage on interesting points of interest and the occasional shelter is a welcome spot to stop and reflect. The accommodation is very different at each overnight stop but perfectly adequate and we also bought the option to have a private room within our group so we all enjoyed a night each as a couple by ourselves. The shops at each stop all provided some fresh produce and wine, beer, milk etc so you can top up as you go. The last two nights have the biggest shops with lots of yummy choices.Loved the trip but be prepared for the weather - we had near perfect conditions but if you are walking the cliffs in wind and rain you need adequate clothing on board.Check out their website well before you go as it is filled with information and worth prior viewing so you are up with the play.Terrific trip and met some lovely fellow trampers - would recommend for sure!

The walk is a moderately strenuous 2 day walk or an easy four day walk. Best to enjoy the 4 day one if you have time, as there are plenty of diversions. The bunkhouses are splendidly individual and in beautiful settings. Stargazer cabins, woodland shower both delightful. Sadly the bath under the stars was closed for fire ban.

For my husband and myself this was our first Tramp. What a way to start!!! It was an excellent experience. The track is well marked, and challenging enough for our experience. We did the walk in four days, and it was interesting that the opinions of the 2 day trampers who where much more seasoned walkers than was a similar and enjoyable experience. The accommodation was a welcome find after each days walk. We live in Brisbane, Australia and in early February we needed the fire at night as we found the weather quite cold, and helped to dry our clothes after the wet weather we experienced along the way. I found a lot of good information on the walk before we started, so I think we were well preparation which only added to the enjoyment. We had all weathers- hail, rain, wind, sunshine, it was a bonus for us that the tramp was even better that what we expected. The shops on the 3rd and 4th nights where well stocked with everything from wine and cheese to meat and veggies, ice creams - canned foods, from tuna to cream corn and delicious desserts. Each accommodation it's own charm and personality, and where all extremely warm, clean and comfortable. We paid for the extra portage on the first and last day, and that make those days much more enjoyable. The weather was very changeable so be prepared for that. One minute we where hot in the sun, and taking in the amazing view at the top of our first climb with stunning views back to Akaroa and then we literary turned around and a storm cloud was quickly coming in from the sea, and we where cough out in a hugh down pour. Luckily just on cue, we came across a shelter (on of many little surprises along the way, of this well set out tramp). Loved the whole experience, and haven't stopped talking about since arriving home. Would totally recommend it to everyone. Just pre-pared!!!!

We have just finished the 2 night trek. I have nothing negative to say . It was as the youngsters say awesome . Really magical . The track was incredibly well marked and as 2 regular walkers in our early sixties I would say it was an easy tramp. Even admiring every view we finished at 1:00 on the last day. Thank you for creating such a great walk. We loved staying at or visiting every different accomodation. We supported all the shops although we thought the last one at Otanerita Beach was the nicest & bought some sausages which we are enjoying in Christchurch tonight ! The showers were excellent as were the loos. We took the private room option and enjoyed lovely cosy double beds . If you do the 2 night trek you meet different people each night & we had great kiwi company each night ( we are from England). We carried our stuff which was fine ......clearly for 2 nights you don't need much . Wildlife , flora and fauna were quite great ! We were blessed too with wonderful weather. Don't think about it do it! !

Loved the huts where we stayed, really well equipped, including flush toilets and showers.. Scenery excellent. Track could have more clearly marked in some places. Not heavily used, so a genuine backcountry experience, yet not far from Akaroa

My wife and I are around sixty years old and enjoyed this walk immensely. We took the four day option and even if we could have done it in two we would not have enjoyed it. While the longest day was only eleven kilometres the terrain was pretty extreme.We are reasonably fit for our age and in the group we walked with there were two sixty nine year olds and while we all completed the walk we also found it challenging and everyone was glad they took the four days. We booked the Honeymoon suits option because then we didn't have to carry bedding and towels. We still think it was worth the extra money.The accommodation was fine and really welcome after each days walking. We were with a group of ten other people we didn't know and really enjoyed there company. The walk itself is spectacular with incredible views and we were able to see penguins and seals as well as interesting bird life.We went in January and being from a tropical climate I still found the nights chilly. It rained on one day and that did impact on our enjoyment with a slippery and quite dangerous track and not much visibility.Summing up I would say this is a wonderful attraction and was a memorable experience which I would recommend to anyone who is capable of walking at least fifteen kilometres on flat ground. I think only the reasonable fit should do it in two days and then only if the focus is on the physical challenge rather than really enjoying what the walk has to offer.Definitely consider paying for cartage on the first and last day as it makes the walk so much more enjoyable. Days two and three are quite manageable with a back pack. Consider the extra expense of the Honeymoon accommodation as it is worth every penny.I would not do this walk any other time than summer. I think the walk would be miserable and dangerous in cold wet weather and the main reason for going is the views which would be totally obscured by clouds and rain.

I am a 29 year old regular tramper in good shape. Took part in the 2 day trek. Carried all my food. The walk is pretty much a summary New Zealand in 2 days. From lookout points to the bays, to rolling hills dotted with sheep, to magical beaches with eye catching blue ocean, to daunting cliffs inhabited by playful and smelly seals, to enchanting forests filled with fantails and kererus. Also not to mention is the quirky huts along the way, especially the one in Stoney Bay. Taking a shower next to a giant tree in the bathroom was quite therapeutic after a long day of hiking. And it was quite long. If you have time, do it in 4 days instead. More time to soak in the scenery. Also, if you have the energy at the end before reentering Akaroa, make an ascend to the Stony Bay Peak. From there you can see Akaroa and the surrounding. Simply stunning. Definitely a Christchurch must do.

We did the hike in two days because we did not have more time. You will need to be in good shape to do that, we are reaching our limit now that we are both over 60. 600 meters of up and down each day with some of it easy, other parts rocky. Great views of the coast, grazing land and fern gullies give a different look every couple of hours. Huts had different levels of comfort, one without electricty, all with hot/cold water, all comfortable. So nice to hike for hours and not see anyone else. Tour operators gave good directions and transport from downtown to start of treck. Bring wine/beer for first night since you can leave recyclables at huts.

Accomodation was better than expected. Comfortable and good kitchen facilities, bathrooms with hot showers and beds. We went for double room option and paid extra for this. My husband is a snorer and we thought this would be kind to other trampers! Taking this option we did not have to carry sleeping bags and towels as these were provided with the double room. You have to take your own food for the first 2 nights and days and after that there are track shops where you can purchase food for dinners, breakfast and lunch. Great selection at Stony Bay and Long bay. Prices not too bad. The walk is excellent and you cover quite a lot each day. It is not easy by any means in that there is quite a lot of up hill and down hill walking but lovely all the same. Take into consideration the heat/sun and wet weather. Also make sure you have enough water for each day's walk. Water from each hut is safe to drink, use the pack cartage available day 1 and 4 it makes things so much more enjoyable without having to carry them the distances. We also went to the Penquin talk at Flea Bay and we're lucky enough to be part of a Blue Penquin being released back into the ocean - very special being part of this. Highly recommend this walk for the scenery, unique surrounds and huts. Also meet other lovely people from many different places.

The Banks Peninsula Track is a long long long track BUT you can do shorter walks and still enjoy life! I suggest that you walk from Akaroa Harbour to the lighthouse through the Cemetry and Garden of Tane through William Street and Bruce Terrace past the Akaroa Area School to the Catholic St. Patricks and back along the boulevarde to the Harbour. That will have taken you about 2 hours and you will have seen the best of Akaroa and part of the Banks Peninsula Track. Keep the real track for a long holiday! AND don't forget to take those beautiful photographs to show those who haven't read my review. Have fun:-)

New Zealand is green for a very good reason - it rains a lot, but we had four absolutely perfect days of sunshine. This walk was on my bucket list for the last ten years and finally made it and absolutely loved the walk with our whole family (13, 19 year olds) and husband.The highlights were... the fact that you get a walk with farming, waterfalls (we swam in) beautiful native forest and ferns, gorgeous majestic beach forests, amazing vistas, seals, penguin tours, kayaking tour, victorian dunnys (toilets) with a spectacular view, predator fence for the mutton birds (yeah - well done) and to spend the last day on an idyllic swimming beach in amongst a lovely relaxing garden - just priceless.The walk was steep on the first day, the accommodation first night was great, cool outdoor bathrooms and great to have a fire to keep the hut warm, you can feel the love on this farm. A coffee plunger would have been appreciated. Loved the vistas from the highest points of the farm - but yes, take the option of having your bags carted for $15 a pack - best $15 dollars I spent this year! Got to see sheep being shawn in the shed - this is what kiwi tourism is about. Well run property.Second night - the opportunity to 'smell' the beauty of nature and the penguins and take the tour with the penguins and then go kayaking the next day is one of the main reasons we did this walk - versus other great walks of NZ. There were also a lot of wild life (mice) in the main house (which could easily and should be controlled - we are selling tourism as the second main earner for NZ) - and as I am an asthmatic I couldn't sleep in the house with the really old musty carpet, but was lucky enough to be able to sleep in the newer (and without carpet - yippee) sleeping room outside. Polishing the floors in main house would help here with this, a bath mat in the showers, cleaner sheets (my son even commented on the sheets - and he is a bloke!) better kitchen layout as only room for one group to prepare dinner (as all the other properties have ) and more cleaning/love on this property would keep it at the same level as the other properties. We so enjoyed the tours and kayaking, was really a wonderful bonus and we got to see the very rare Hector dolphin and her wee baby - just awesome. When we first left here we got a bit lost just up the hill where the is a turnstyle (without a fence) and a white market pole here is needed, as we had to split our family group into three until someone found the pole. This farm needs more work on the tracks and more focus on the maintenance and presentation of the living quarters. Yes, there is a noticeable difference on this farm to the other properties which are more well maintained and customer focussed. Third night at Stony Bay was an absolute delight - the creative, quirky - no electricity huts really felt like homes that were loved. We had a magical time here. The shop was well stocked, the prices reasonable and so appreciated were the eggs - fresh and plentiful, really clean shop and rooms, the creativity. We loved the candles to light, the fire to sit round, the fire under the bath, the pool table with tin cans, the volley ball, and the shower from a fairy tale. Thank you for sharing this with the world - so special.Fourth night - a lovely clean, spacious villa with a wonderful wide verandah, gorgeous well tended gardens and another well stocked shop to eat and share stories at, lovely and clean. A real kiwi farm with real kiwi feel. Well done.Thank you for sharing your farms with the world - NZ needs more of this real kiwi tourism - that is what we are about.

We have just completed this walk - a group of 5 walkers and one driver and pack carrier. It was fabulous. I love the way these farmers have banded together to create what was New Zealand's first private walk 25 years ago. Through it they are sharing a unique and rugged almost inaccessible coastline.As the pack carrier, my focus was on the hut experiences each night which were amazing - each one totally unique. From our first night at the Onuku Farm Hostel quote close to Akaroa over the hill to Flea Bay's penguin colony, on to the little hobbiton that is Stony Bay, to our colonial cottage experience at Otanerito before the walk through the fabulous Hinewai Reserve.Driving as I did needs a four wheel drive, and special permission, but it gave me a unique insight into this magic part of New Zealand, that is usually only avaiable to those who can walk 35 kms up hill and down dale.

Totally loved the Banks Peninsula Track walk - a group of us (5 ladies) did the 2 day walk, having our packs carried - some very hilly parts, so wouldn't like to have been carrying my own pack. The huts you stay in are so quaint and gorgeous with the wee shops on site well stocked with wine, cheeses, meats, veggies etc.A bonus was getting to see penguins and dolphins -such a beautiful part of the country and highly recommend the walk.