Hinau Track

DISCOVER THE HINAU TRACK: KAIKOURA’S SHORT BUT SWEET BUSH WALK

03 OCTOBER 2025

Intro into the track. What part of the country it's in, where it's located, a brief overview and why we love it.

What's in this guide

Trail overview & what to expect
How to get there
What to bring on the hike
Tips for visiting
Best time to hike
Facilities & amenities
Nearby Spots to Explore

Trail Overview & What to Expect

Briefly describe the location (region, nearest town or city)
Mention any notable landmarks nearby
Give context for why this spot is special or popular
Where is it?
Is it one of the most popular tracks in NZ?
Will it be packed with tourists?
Is there a lake?
Total distance (return or one-way)
Estimated time to complete (average pace)
Difficulty rating (easy, moderate, challenging)
Terrain type (rocky, gravel, forest, open ridges)
Elevation gain and any steep or tricky sections
Highlights en route (viewpoints, streams, wildlife)
Weather exposure (windy, shaded, sun-exposed)
Any navigation notes (well-marked, poles, GPS recommended)

How To Get There

Driving directions (main roads, turns, gravel or sealed roads)
Which is the closest town?
Parking info (availability, size, cost if any)
Any road tolls?
Public transport options if relevant
Road conditions or vehicle recommendations (4WD needed?)
How to get there from the carpark

What To Bring On The Hike

Clothing (layers, rain jacket, windproof)
Footwear recommendations
Water and food/snacks.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Extras like camera, trekking poles if downhill, insect repellent in summer
Crampons/mini spikes in winter
Food and drink

Tips For Visiting

Your own experience or challenges faced.
Best spots for photos or quiet moments
Any side tracks?
Suggestions for making the hike easier or more enjoyable.
Warnings about common mistakes or misconceptions.
Weather hazards (sudden storms, strong winds).
Wildlife warnings (keep distance from animals, ticks, snakes if relevant).
Cell phone coverage (likely or not).
Emergency info (nearest help, DOC huts or shelters).
Track difficulty warnings (not for beginners, exposed sections).

Best Time to Hike

Ideal seasons (spring, summer, autumn).
Time of day recommendations (sunrise, sunset, avoid midday heat).
Weather considerations (rain, wind, snow).
Any special events or wildlife seasons to be aware of
Any closures during lambing season

Facilities & Ameneties

Toilets (at trailhead or on route).
Picnic or rest areas.
Nearby cafes or shops.
Accommodation options if overnight stay needed.

Finaly Thoughts

Nearby Spots to Explore

If you’ve made it all the way to Cannibal Bay, don’t stop there! Here are a few more spots nearby that are well worth checking out:

Surat Bay – Right next door and another great place to spot sea lions.
Nugget Point Lighthouse – One of the most iconic sights in the Catlins, with panoramic ocean views and the chance to spot penguins and seals from above.
Roaring Bay – Just below Nugget Point, this is a known spot to (hopefully) glimpse rare yellow-eyed penguins from the viewing hide, although over the years the penguin numbers have been declining and as of 2025 there are only 2 penguins that are rarely seen there.
Purakaunui Falls – One of the most photographed waterfalls in New Zealand, just a 30 min drive away and an easy walk.

Planning to explore more of the region? Check out our guides to:

4 stunning waterfalls in the Catlins
9 walks and hikes to do in the Catlins
Best Catlins beaches to visit
Where to see wildlife in the Catlins
The ultimate guide to the Catlins
The best spots to see the sunrise and sunset in the Catlins

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