How to get there:
From Christchurch travel along State Highway 75 about 40km and then turn left at Kaituna Valley Road.
The scenic reserve is located about 5km up the road.
The start of the Kaituna Valley Packhorse Hut track is located off Parkinsons Road, which is about a further 1km up Kaituna Valley Road.
Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve
If you want a tranquil spot for a family picnic then head to Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve. It has a large picnic area, a stream where the kids can splash about, and a short walking track that is ideal for families with young children.
A little further up the valley is the start of the Kaituna Valley Packhorse Hut Track. This 4km track ambles through pasture and then forest, crossing the valley stream several times.
The track eventually climbs onto a big open spur. From the spur, you can take a farm track through Parkinsons Bush Reserve to the historic stone Packhorse Hut, which is the perfect place for a sheltered lunch stop before you start the trek home..
There are great views along the track of Kaitorete Spit and the south coast, as well as Lyttelton Harbour, Quail Island and the Port Hills.
