Ōtepatotu Scenic Reserve, Banks Peninsula Walk

I planned on going to Hinewai Reserve but my ability to follow directions failed and I ended up here.

A beautiful walk with many Tōtara trees. I could have stayed longer. As I was at the end of the walk I saw a Kahukura (Red Admiral Butterfly).

Some information from the Department of Conservation -

This steep but short track will take you up through some original forest of Banks Peninsula to a summit with great views. Ōtepatotu is popular with families. This is a steep track with steps, and a reasonable level of fitness is required. Not suitable for children under 5.

From the carpark the track climbs through a remnant of mountain tōtara forest to reach the summit of Lavericks Peak (755 m). Nearing the summit, trees are hung with weeping moss, creating a 'goblin forest' atmosphere. This is appropriate to the loose translation of the name Ōtepātotu, 'place of the fairies'. The summit offers grand views of the Akaroa harbour and the surrounding peaks.

The return track travels down through a native fuchsia/kōtukutuku gully forest on the southern side.

Picnic tables and a toilet are available at the car park.

Link to a YouTube video I made of my observations- https://youtu.be/_RyMkhOuxoY?si=uTu_K0OGIeWrHFsr

Posted on September 23, 2024 07:34 AM by katrina_muir