This is one of the most popular tracks on the Port Hills for walkers, runners and mountain-bikers. It offers fantastic views from the top over Lyttelton Harbour.
| Start | Junction of Rāpaki Road and Centaurus Road, Hillsborough |
| Finish | Rāpaki Track car park, Summit Road |
| Distance | 3.5 km |
| Time | 45 minutes one way |
| Dogs | Must be kept on a leash |
| Parking | Parking is available in the wider area. In busy times try parking at Hansen Park or Fifield Terrace and warm up with a stroll along the Heathcote River before tackling the Rapaki Track |
| Description |
Start at the junction of Rapaki Road and Centaurus Road. Walk up Rapaki Road until you reach the signage for Rapaki Track. The track gradually climbs, offering pleasant views into the valley below. In the mid-section, it flattens, then climbs again at a good gradient to the Rapaki Track car park on Summit Road. At this point, the car park marks the end of vehicle access along Summit Road and is a popular spot to rest and take in the views of Lyttelton Harbour and the volcanic peaks and ridges of Banks Peninsula. Alternatively, a 10-minute walk up to the summit of Mt Vernon is well worthwhile. From here you can return the same way or create a longer loop walk by returning via Huntsbury Track. You may also like to tackle a section of the Crater Rim Walkway in either direction from this point. Get ready for this track using Plan My Walk(external link) by the NZ Mountain Safety Council. You can find track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list, so you are set for your adventure. |
Walking tracks
Shared use
Connecting tracks
Closed
Parking
Bus stop
Toilets
Water fountains
Accessible tracks
Challenging feature
Entry and exit point
Point of interest