Banks Track (Banks Peninsula Track) provides a world-class, self-guided walking experience across the rugged and dramatic volcanic landscape of Banks Peninsula, starting and finishing in the picturesque town of Akaroa. Traversing private farmland, native bush, dramatic coastal cliffs, and remote bays, the track offers walkers an unhurried journey through pristine natural scenery with sweeping ocean views.
To ensure tranquil trails and an uncrowded atmosphere, track numbers are strictly limited to just 16 walkers per day. Guests stay in distinctive, character-filled accommodations each night—from the purpose-built trampers hut at Ōnuku looking across Akaroa Harbour, to an historic farm cottage in Flea Bay valley, and the charming village setting of Stony Bay featuring an open-air bath under the stars. With well-equipped kitchens, comfortable beds, hot showers, and luggage transport options available, Banks Track delivers an unforgettable backcountry adventure with welcoming comforts.
Perched on the rim of an ancient, extinct volcano, Banks Track offers one of New Zealand's most scenic and intimate walking experiences. Beginning and ending in the historic harbor village of Akaroa, the 31-kilometer route guides hikers across ridgelines, through towering tree fern gullies, alongside cascading waterfalls, and down into remote ocean bays that are inaccessible by public roads. Coupled with over 20 kilometers of optional side tracks, the journey is an immersive encounter with the rich natural heritage and coastline of the South Eastern Bays.
Unlike heavily trafficked public tracks, Banks Track maintains an exclusive, peaceful environment by capping departures at just 16 walkers per day. This ensures that every hiker enjoys quiet trails, unobstructed coastal panoramas, and unhurried wildlife viewing, from native seabirds and fur seals to the resident little blue penguin colony in Flea Bay valley.
Each night along the route presents a completely different lodging experience. The journey starts at the Ōnuku Trampers Hut, positioned high to showcase sweeping views over the sparkling waters of Akaroa Harbour. The second evening descends into Flea Bay, where guests stay in an historic farm cottage set amidst lush farmland and native bush. The final night unfolds in the rustic, quirky village settlement at Stony Bay, famous among walkers for its relaxing outdoor bath heated under the evening stars.
All overnight locations are fully appointed for trampers, featuring comfortable beds, flush toilets, hot showers, woodstove heating, and fully equipped communal kitchens. Because the accommodations provide all cooking equipment, trampers only need to pack their food and clothing.
Banks Track caters to different hiking styles through two core itineraries. The flagship 3-Day Classic Walk spans three nights and includes luggage transfers between accommodations, enabling walkers to tackle the trails carrying only a day pack with daily essentials. This option affords ample leisure time to explore tranquil side tracks, take part in seasonal penguin tours, or paddle coastal waters by kayak.
For fitter and faster walkers seeking a more athletic adventure, the 2-Day Hikers Option follows the same magnificent trail while carrying full packs, with overnight stops at Ōnuku and Stony Bay. Both choices deliver an extraordinary blend of wild coastal terrain and distinctive Kiwi hospitality.