Motunau Island
A small but vital refuge for many seabirds, Motunau Island is located off the coast of Motunau, North Canterbury.
Napenape Scenic Reserve
An important place to early Canterbury Māori, the forest features native Silver Black Spider orchids and clematis. Kekeno/New Zealand fur seals are often clustered at the base of the towering white cliffs at the end of the beach.
- The beach is unsafe for swimming.
- Don't enter during or after periods of wet weather due to the risk of landslips or rockfall.
- No overnight camping.
- Dogs allowed under control.
- No toilets or water.
Getting there
Napenape Road is no longer maintained by Hurunui District Council and is not suitable for 2WD vehicles. Access may require a 2.6 km walk along the coastal section of Napenape Rd to access. Please contact Hurunui District Council for road Information.
Turn off SH1 into Hurunui Mouth Rd just past Dommett (115 km north of Christchurch). Just before the river mouth, take the bridge over the Hurunui River and follow Blythe Road. From the bridge the road is unsealed. From Blythe Road take Napenape Road.
Walk to the Balmoral Fire Lookout, a great place for a family picnic with fantastic all-round views and some interesting history.