Kaituna Valley Packhorse Hut Track
Located in Banks Peninsula area in the Canterbury region
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Introduction
The walk to Packhorse Hut can be enjoyed as a half day walk but is also a great overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers.4 km one way
Dog access
Image gallery
This track is part of the Te Ara Pātaka/Summit Walkway.
This well signposted track passes through a farm, following vehicle tracks up a native bush-filled valley. The track goes through pasture and then forest, crossing the valley stream several times. In the summer you can use stepping stones to cross, but be prepared to get wet feet if the stream is up after rain.
The track eventually climbs steeply onto a big spur. From here you can see over Kaitorete Spit and Lake Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere. You can also see along the coast towards Ashburton. The track then follows the open spur before reaching a farm track through the Parkinsons Bush Reserve. This reserve is a small but important stand of native forest.
The track then leads to the saddle and the historic stone Packhorse Hut, well situated for the views. Packhorse Hut makes a great place for a sheltered lunch stop if completing this walk in a day or a night stay for families or those travelling the Te Ara Pātaka track.
Mountain biking
Mountain biking is not allowed on this section of Te Ara Pātaka/Summit Walkway.
From Christchurch, take SH75 to Kaituna Valley Road. Turn left into Parkinsons Road after 6 km. Park near the road end where the track starts. This offers much more secure parking than Gebbies Pass.
The stream is normally shallow but can flood in heavy rain.
Take care near stinging nettle
Urtica ferox (ongaonga) is an endemic stinging nettle and common in this area. Take care not to touch these plants as they have a very strong sting. Ongaonga are an important host plant of Vanessa gonerilla (kahukura), the endemic red admiral butterfly.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 318 9211 |
| arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 104 West Coast Road Arthur's Pass 7654 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |