Last updated November 2026
The Ellangowan Scenic Reserve Track is a short loop above Akaroa that climbs to a rocky lookout with panoramic views over Banks Peninsula. It starts from a DOC sign on Hickory Bay Road, about a 5-minute walk down the road from the signposted car park.
DOC grades it Intermediate and gives 40 minutes return. The track climbs through snow tussock and scrub to the Hickory Bay ridge, then drops back through beech forest. The reserve is about 44 km from Christchurch, so it pairs well with a day trip to Akaroa.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Ellangowan Scenic Reserve Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- DOC sign on Hickory Bay Road (5 min walk from the signposted car park)
- Distance from the city
- About 44 km from Christchurch
- Walking time
- 40 min return
- Track length
- 2.4 km return
- Grade
- Intermediate
- Dogs
- Dogs on a leash only
- Toilets
- None at the reserve
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Ellangowan Scenic Reserve Track
From the start on Hickory Bay Road, the track climbs through snow tussock and scrub to the Hickory Bay ridge. It follows the ridge to a rocky outlook on a 12 m bluff near the centre of the reserve, where DOC says the lookout offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
The return leg drops through beech forest to Hickory Bay Road, followed by a short road walk back to the start. DOC notes that the reserve marks the north-eastern limit of beech on Banks Peninsula. Its wetter and drier faces carry quite different plants, and the rocky bluffs hold some interesting herbs.
Day Trip from Christchurch
From Akaroa, DOC says to take Long Bay Road for 7 km to the Summit Road junction known as the Cabstand, then turn onto Hickory Bay Road and drive 1 km to the signposted car park. There is no toilet at the reserve.
DOC says the nearest public toilets are in Akaroa or at Ōtepatotu Reserve, 7.5 km along Summit Road, which has its own short summit walk.
Track Conditions and Safety
DOC warns: “The top of the track is exposed and can be affected by bad weather. For example, strong winds and low cloud.” Parts of the track cross exposed rocks and steep sections, so stay on the marked track.
Fires are not allowed in the reserve. Ongaonga, the native stinging nettle, grows in the area and has a very strong sting. Check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Ellangowan Scenic Reserve Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Banks Peninsula area: other DOC walks, reserves and huts on Banks Peninsula.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Ellangowan Scenic Reserve Track take?
DOC gives 40 minutes return.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it Intermediate. It crosses exposed rocks and steep sections.
Can I take my dog?
DOC’s rule is dogs on a leash only.
Where do I park?
At the signposted car park on Hickory Bay Road, 1 km from the Cabstand junction. The track starts about 5 minutes’ walk down the road.
Are there toilets?
Not at the reserve. The nearest are in Akaroa or at Ōtepatotu Reserve.
What will I see from the lookout?
Panoramic views of Banks Peninsula.
When is the best time to go?
On a settled day. DOC warns the top is exposed to strong winds and low cloud.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.