Our guide to the stunning 1 hour walk

The Onawe Track is a fantastic 1 hour return walk along the Onawe Peninsula.  All along the 3.1 km walk you'll enjoy incredible views of the Akaroa Harbour and surrounding hills.  

The walk can only be done when it's low tide.  You'll soon see why as the start of the walk is along the narrow beach area with gorgeous orange/rust coloured rocks aligning the beach.  On both sides on the narrow beach you'll enjoy panoramic views on this stunning harbour region and surrounding hills of the Banks Peninsula.

The walk then leads onto the main part of the peninsula, with a steep grassy area to climb.  There is only one way to go so no signposts are needed.  As you climb higher the views become even more dramatic.  It will likely take around 25 minutues to reach the top.  Although no seating area, there is a rocky area that can double up as a temporary seat.

The Onawe Peninsula was the location of a bloody massacre when it was invaded by the Ngāti Toa chief, Te Rauparaha in 1832 after the sacking of Kaiapoi in 1831.  The Peninsula was defended by 400 people, but had little chance against the power of Te Rauparaha which resulted in up to 1200 people massacred.

Visitors can enjoy the wonderful views and walk around but are asked to refrain from eating on site in respect for its tapu status.

How To Get There

As you approach Akaroa along State Highway 75, you need to turn left into Onawe Flat Road.  The turn off is just before the small settlement of  Duvauchelle.  The road is soon unsealed and is very narrow so be careful.  Follow the road way all the way round until you reach a fork in the road. Here, turn right and after approx 50 metres you'll reach a small parking area. The alternative is to just park alongside the road as you initially turn off the highway.