The Banks Peninsula Track runs alongside Pohatu Marine Reserve.
Shireen Helps offers a special discount to Track walkers on her kayaking trips at Flea Bay/Pohatu Marine Reserve. The most usual kayaking departures are in the morning so the option for two day walkers is fairly limited, although may still be possible. Be aware that you still have a fairly strenuous track section to walk after your kayaking trip should you get to Flea Bay when it is still available.
This trip can be mind blowing in the right sea conditions. The outer coast of Pohatu Marine Reserve is spectacular with towering sea cliffs sculpted through the ages by the sea into rock stacks, reefs, and deep sea caves. Flea Bay Island and the impressive island arch make an added exciting attraction.
Even if the outer coast is too rough for kayaking the sheltered bay has a lot to offer. Pohatu/ Flea Bay is home to seals that can almost always be seen lounging on the rocks or swimming nearby. During the breeding or moulting season penguins are often found sitting in and around rock crevices, or maybe swimming out on the water of the bay. Often Hectors Dolphins join us and swim along with the kayaks.
A large fleet of safe stable doubles and experienced guides enables even the inexperienced to enjoy an unforgettable experience - trips may be accompanied free of additional charge.
Please note - kayaking is subject to sea conditions. Kayak hire is open when at least the sheltered bay can be kayaked.
Complimentary car parking is available for walkers at the Banks Peninsula Track car park at Mt Vernon Lodge, one kilometre up Rue Balguerie from the bus departure point at Akaroa Information Centre. Allow 30 mins for parking and walk to Info Centre.
Tip. Drop off passengers and backpacks at the Info Centre before driving up to Mt Vernon.
Our Banks Peninsula Track bus leaves Akaroa Info Centre at 5.45pm for the short trip to Onuku Farm Trampers' Hut. A short orientation talk precedes bus departure and you are issued with your informative guide booklet which includes maps.
Please note - there is a 10 minute walk from road end to hut.
5.45 pm pickup at Akaroa Information Centre - this is on your booking start date.
Bus transport to Onuku Trampers' Hut. Ten minute walk from bus drop-off point to hut.
First night. Onuku Trampers' Hut. Meal option at Bush Cafe. See Food and Drink.
First day morning. Onuku to Flea Bay. 4-6 hrs walking.
Pack cartage from Onuku to Flea Bay is an option
Lunch stop. Flea Bay Cottage. Drinks and Chocolate available.
First day afternoon. Flea Bay to Stony Bay. 2-4 hrs walking.
Second night. Stony Bay Cottages. Full Trampers' shop supplies available.
Second day morning. Stony Bay to Otanerito. 2-3 hrs walking.
Morning/lunch stop. Otanerito Farm House. Full Trampers' shop supplies available.
Second day afternoon. Otanerito to Akaroa. 3-5 hrs walking.
Pack cartage is a possible option on this section (see Pack cartage).
Arrive Akaroa - mid afternoon.
The information from the two day track walk pages can be printed, (also includes 'getting here' from Akaroa page) by going to the
for either printing or downloading as pdf.
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