High on the western flanks of Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū Banks Peninsula, this protected native reserve takes in Omahu Bush alongside the striking volcanic outcrop of Gibraltar Rock. Formed as part of conservationist Harry Ell's vision for an interconnected ridgeline of protected sanctuaries, the land is privately owned and maintained by the Summit Road Society for open public recreation. Visitors come here for peaceful bush tracks that wind under regenerating canopies, paired with rugged crags and expansive views across Lyttelton Harbour and the Canterbury plains.
Set directly along Summit Road in Tai Tapu, Selwyn, the reserve remains open for casual walkers, hikers, and families looking for undisturbed hillside scenery. Organised group events require prior board approval to protect sensitive ground, and public access can occasionally be paused for track maintenance or safety work. For a rewarding walk through authentic Port Hills bush away from the busier city-side lookouts, it is an outstanding stop along the crest.