Packhorse Hut | My Recommended Hikes to This Banks Peninsula Classic
If you’ve ever wanted to visit Packhorse Hut but aren’t sure which track to take, the good news is that there isn’t a bad option. Sitting high on Banks Peninsula with incredible views over Lyttelton Harbour and the Canterbury Plains, Packhorse Hut is one of my favourite hikes close to Christchurch.
What I love most about Packhorse Hut is that you can visit it multiple times and have a completely different experience depending on which track you choose. Whether you’re looking for the shortest route, a quieter alternative, or want to turn it into a bigger adventure by continuing on to Mt Herbert, there’s a hike to suit almost everyone.
1. Packhorse Hut via Gebbies Pass
Best for: First-time visitors and the shortest, easiest option.
If you’ve never been to Packhorse Hut before, I’d recommend starting with the classic Gebbies Pass Track. It’s the most direct route to the hut and is a fantastic introduction to Banks Peninsula hiking.
The track climbs steadily through open farmland and through pine plantation, with expansive views opening up almost immediately. On a clear day, you can see across Lyttelton Harbour, out to the Canterbury Plains and all the way to the Southern Alps.
The climb is relatively short, making it ideal if you’re new to hiking or simply want a relaxed day out. Packhorse Hut itself makes the perfect place to stop for lunch before retracing your steps back to the car park.
Why I recommend it:
Shortest and easiest option.
Incredible views for minimal effort.
Perfect for families and beginner hikers.
Great introduction to Packhorse Hut.
2. Packhorse Hut via the Tūpari Reserve Track
Best for: Those wanting something a little quieter and more varied.
The Tūpari Reserve Track is one of my favourite ways to reach Packhorse Hut. Starting from Kaituna Valley near Little River, this route feels quite different from the more popular Gebbies Pass Track.
The climb begins through regenerating native bush before winding steadily uphill to open ridgelines with beautiful views across Banks Peninsula. It feels a little more adventurous and offers a nice mix of environments throughout the walk.
From the car park, it’s approximately 5 km to Packhorse Hut, taking around two hours at a comfortable pace. Once at the hut, you can either return the same way or make it into a loop by descending via the Kaituna Valley Track.
If you’re looking for something slightly less crowded and enjoy a bit more variety in your hike, this is an excellent option.
Why I recommend it:
Native bush and ridgeline scenery.
Generally quieter than Gebbies Pass.
Makes a fantastic loop walk.
Ideal for those wanting something different.
3. Kaituna Valley Track and Mt Herbert
Best for: Those wanting a longer day hike or a bigger challenge.
If you’re keen to spend more time exploring Banks Peninsula, I highly recommend combining Packhorse Hut with Mt Herbert, the highest point on the peninsula.
Starting from Kaituna Valley, the track climbs steadily to Packhorse Hut before continuing on towards Mt Herbert. The section between Kaituna Valley and Packhorse Hut follows an old farm track through beautiful rolling hill country and offers stunning views as you gain elevation.
Packhorse Hut makes the perfect place for a snack break before tackling the climb to Mt Herbert. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views stretching across Banks Peninsula, Christchurch and beyond.
If you don’t feel like climbing Mt Herbert, the Kaituna Valley Track is still worth walking simply for the scenery and as an alternative way to visit the hut.
Why I recommend it:
Great option if you’re looking for a bigger day out.
Opportunity to summit Mt Herbert.
Fantastic panoramic views.
Can easily be combined with the Tūpari Reserve Track as a loop.
Which Route Should You Choose?
Route | Difficulty | Best For |
Gebbies Pass | Easy to moderate | First-time visitors and shorter hikes |
Tupari Reserve Track | Moderate | Variety and quieter trails |
Kaituna Valley Track | Moderate | Longer hikes and loop options |
Mt Herbert via Packhorse Hut | Moderate to challenging | Those wanting a summit and full-day adventure |
My Recommendation
If I could only recommend one option, it would be hiking up via the Tūpari Reserve Track and returning down the Kaituna Valley Track. The loop offers a wonderful variety of scenery, avoids retracing your steps and showcases some of the very best of Banks Peninsula in a single day.
That said, Packhorse Hut is one of those places that’s worth visiting more than once. Each route offers something different, and every time I visit, I’m reminded why it’s such a classic Canterbury hike.
Whether you’re after an easy day walk, a scenic loop, or a challenging summit of Mt Herbert, Packhorse Hut has an option that will keep you coming back for more.
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