Manuka Bay Lookout Track
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
Manuka Bay Road is closed from the junction with Robinson Street. From this point there is walking access only down to Manuka Beach and the start of the Manuka Bay Lookout 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.
Due to significant slips and fall hazards past this point the track ends at the lookout. The former Manuka Bay Track is permanently closed and there is no access to Manuka Bay Lookout Track from the southern (Hurunui River mouth) end.
- 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 arrive at gate. The road is unsuitable for vehicles past this point.
The Manuka Bay Lookout Track cannot be accessed from the southern (Hurunui River mouth) end. Significant slips and fall hazards exist and the former Manuka Bay Track has been permanently closed.
No toilets or water are available on this track. The nearest public toilets are located in Gore Bay at the Old School Reserve, Cathedral Rd.
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.