Last updated November 2026
The Tutakakahikura Scenic Reserve Track is a short Advanced track on Banks Peninsula that follows a stream through a narrow stand of red beech, or tawairaunui, forest off Flea Bay Road. DOC gives 1 hr return.
Getting there is the hard part: DOC says “You need a 4WD vehicle to get to the start of the track”, as Flea Bay Road is steep, narrow and gravel. The track enters and leaves the reserve from Flea Bay Road, passing small rock pools and waterfalls along the stream. It is about 45 km from Christchurch, out past Akaroa.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Tutakakahikura Scenic Reserve Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Flea Bay Road (signposted reserve, 4WD access only)
- Distance from the city
- About 45 km from Christchurch
- Walking time
- 1 hr return
- Track length
- 1.6 km return
- Grade
- Advanced
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Vehicle access
- 4WD only on Flea Bay Road
- 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 Tutakakahikura Scenic Reserve Track
The reserve protects a narrow stand of remnant red beech forest, reached from Flea Bay Road. The track follows a stream up through the trees, passing small rock pools and waterfalls.
Both ends of the track come out on Flea Bay Road. You can walk out and back, or make a loop by returning along the road.
Flea Bay is part of Pohatu Marine Reserve, which DOC notes is home to seals, penguins and dolphins, with rock pools to view small animals and plants.
Getting There
From Akaroa, take Akaroa Lighthouse Road for about 7 km, then turn left onto Flea Bay Road. DOC says the reserve is signposted about 1 km from the turn-off, with a lower reserve sign as you continue down to Flea Bay. DOC describes Flea Bay Road as “a steep, narrow, gravel road suitable for 4 wheel drive vehicles only.”
Private Land and Track Notes
DOC notes that “both ends of the track cross over private land and the private Banks Peninsula Track intersects with the public track.” Keep to the marked track. DOC lists the Banks Peninsula Track operators as the contact for access outside the reserve. Check DOC before you go, tell someone your plans and use Plan My Walk.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Tutakakahikura 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.
Plan My Walk: weather, track alerts and a trip plan to share before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a 4WD to reach the track?
Yes. DOC says you need a 4WD vehicle, as Flea Bay Road is steep, narrow and gravel.
How long does the track take?
DOC gives 1 hr return.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it Advanced.
Can I take my dog?
No dogs.
Can I make it a loop?
Yes. Both ends meet Flea Bay Road, so you can return along the road.
What will I see?
Red beech forest and a stream with small rock pools and waterfalls.
Does the track cross private land?
Yes. DOC says both ends cross private land, and the private Banks Peninsula Track meets the public track. Keep to the marked track.
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.