Otepatotu
Image: Craig Alexander | DOC

Kiwi Guardians at Otepatotu

Introduction

Escaping the city for the spectacular Banks Peninsula, stop in at Ōtepatotu and enjoy darting around the trees, admiring the view and see if you can find the creatures of the “Goblin Forest”.

Highlights

  • The weeping moss gives the forest its goblin like look. The name of the reserve loosely translates to “place of the fairies”, what would their homes look like?
  • The flowers of the native fuchsia are an important food for birds like bellbird (korimako). This can give bellbirds a blue head from the pollen on the flowers.
  • Challenge yourself to walk up to the summit of Lavericks Peak, one of the high points of Banks Peninsula at 755 m above sea level.

Getting ready

Download the adventure map (PDF, 3122K) and check out what you can do.

Know before you go

  • This well-defined loop track takes around an hour to complete.
  • Some parts of the track have stairs in the steeper sections and have tree roots so watch your footing and bring good footwear. Not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
  • Good picnic site and toilets just next to the carpark.
  • Binoculars recommended.
  • Dogs on a leash only.

What to bring

DOC Short Walks gear list.

Go and explore

Look out for the Guardian Post when you get there. On it you'll find a special code word - write it down.

Getting there

From Christchurch follow the Akaroa Highway to Hilltop, then turn left. Ōtepatotu is located along the Summit Road midway between Okains and Le Bons Bays.

Claim your reward

Tell us the Ōtepatotu code word to receive a Kiwi Guardians certificate and medal for this adventure.

Put the medal on your back pack or pencil case to show everyone the adventure you've had.

Each Kiwi Guardians place has a different medal - see how many you can collect.

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