Manuka Bay Track (Port Robinson Walkway)
Located in Cheviot area in the Canterbury region
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Introduction
This track hugs the coastline and provides sea views, lush forest and a number of landscape features.3 km one way
Seasonal restrictions
Closed for lambing 15 August to 15 October each year.
Dog access
From the carpark at the southern end of Manuka Bay beach, pass through the gate in the fence and follow the track as it winds up through the lush broadleaf forest to an open grassy area with views back towards the beach. This is private land so stay on the track.
The track crosses the open area then drops down to an area of regenerating mānuka and flax. There are good examples of tunnel and gulley 'badland' erosion in the banks alongside the track where rain has scoured out the soft clay.
It then passes through a stretch of mature coastal forest featuring plants such as whauwhaupaku or five-finger, small-leaved kowhai, and a variety of ferns. There are glimpses of the sea as the track winds in and out of bush filled gullies.
Soon the track climbs again to give good views of the coastline and the nearby Hurunui lagoon. There is a headland atop 60 m cliffs where you can rest on a seat and admire the expansive ocean and coastal views.
As the track continues to head south and drops towards the car park it hugs the coastline above the lagoon, and the forest gradually thins out. At this point the Hurunui Walkway crosses private farmland for 10 minutes to reach the end of the Hurunui Mouth Road near the mouth of the Hurunui River, and the second car park.
- Drive on SH1 to Domett, then turn down the signposted Hurunui Mouth Road (126 km north of Christchurch).
- Drive 4 km down the road before taking the Cathedral Road towards Gore Bay.
- Follow the winding road for 7 km to Manuka Bay Road. This is an unsealed road.
- After 1 km you'll go through a gate to the informal picnic area by the beach at Manuka Bay.
The track can also be accessed from the southern end of the Hurunui Walkway. Drive to the end of Hurunui Mouth Road, near the mouth of the Hurunui River.
The final 10 minutes of track to the Hurunui River mouth is a New Zealand walkway that crosses private land. Stay on the track and do not disturb any stock.
No toilets or water are available on this track.
The Port Robinson area lies at the southern and eastern limits of a number of bird and plant species. The area is known for its abundant bird life.
Contacts
| Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 318 9211 |
| Email: | arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
104 West Coast Road Arthur's Pass |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 51008 Arthur's Pass 7654 |
| Full office details | |