Banks Track

The Banks Peninsula Track is a magical place. Each of the three days of hiking is filled with spectacular vistas, well-cared for and well marked trails, and each overnight hut experience has such a unique flavor. Theres an ambiance on the trails and in the huts that arises out of a warm and thankful experience: amazing views, interesting trails, well cared-for resting places each night. Not carrying our packs was itself fantastic! One was free to appreciate it all without backpack struggles. The trails were a mix across all levels of difficulty but all well marked and looked after It is clear that this unique group of people who run and care for this wonderful 3-day hike cherish the place and make sure we all notice its specialness and splendor. A highlight at Flea Bay was, of course, the amazing and interesting penguin walk with Joey Helps and other scientists. Wow! We learned so much and her enthusiasm, knowledge and love of these beautiful birds was inspiring. We hiked around lots of places on the South Island over a month. The Banks Peninsula was beyond all, our favorite. Make sure you sign up early, well before you plan to go. Worth every minute!
Feb 22nd, 2023

Apr 22nd, 2023

Visited on Weekday Wait time No wait Reservation recommended Yes More
Mar 28th, 2023

This is a beautiful track. Different every day. The accommodation is quirky and lovely, in beautiful settings, inviting to spend a comfortable afternoon and evening with good wine, beer and food. So convenient to have your luggage and food transported. Very doable but a reasonable amount of fitness required for the two hill climbs. Had a great time with friends. Can thoroughly recommend.
Feb 23rd, 2023

I had a wonderful time walking the Banks Track in 2 days, with a lucky perfect streak of weather! The facilities were beautiful - stunning cabins with lots of treats for purchase and lots of amenities (compared to a DOC hut at least!). The customer service from start to finish was excellent, and you could really feel the manaakitanga from all the families who run the track. As a regular tramper, I found the 2 day walk to be fairly easy, although I heard from 3 day trampers who aren't used to so much walking that it was a struggle for them (and I can imagine that it would be challenging in wet weather!!). It was wonderful meeting other walkers from the Christchurch region, from around NZ, and from overseas, and the way the track is set up meant that we had great opportunities to chat over a fire with a beer in hand. My expectations were exceeded - thank you to the families who are taking such care to make this walk possible!
Mar 16th, 2023