Last Updated: 28th Feb 2026
Tūpari - Packhorse - Kaituna Loop
Tidy new loop to Packhorse Hut
Tūpari Reserve Packhorse Hut Track
Kaituna Valley Packhorse Hut Track
Last Updated: 28th Feb 2026
Grunt Factor: 16 ?
Gnarl Factor: 24 ?
9.1km
595m
585m
Last Updated: 28th Feb 2026
Kaituna Valley Packhorse Hut Track
Last Updated: 28th Feb 2026
Grunt Factor: 16 ?
Gnarl Factor: 24 ?
9.1km
595m
585m
Front country - easily accessible
Loop
Undulating, some big hills
Native bush
Open farmlands
Open ridges/tops
Farm Road / 4WD Track
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +13.10%
Average Downhill Gradient: -12.90%
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2:00
Slow
1:15
Moderate
1
Fast
Thanks to the Mikimiki Conservation Trust’s purchase of a 730ha private reserve in Kaituna Valley, a new loop run is now possible to the popular Packhorse Hut via the newly constructed Tūpari Track, returning via the Kaituna Valley Track. The loop is well marked and offers a mix of open farmland, small patches of remnant bush, and expanding views back across the Kaituna Valley.
The loop is best completed clockwise. While the Tūpari Track is maintained by the Trust, it is not yet fully worn in. Some sections sidle along paddock edges where long grass can conceal the true running surface, so care is needed, particularly at speed. Ongoing mowing and maintenance are expected to improve this over time.
The route begins at the Kaituna Valley car park off Parkinsons Road. From the noticeboard, follow the sidle and continue straight, picking up signage for the start of the Tūpari Track. A short but sharp climb gains approximately 140 metres over 700 metres, leading to a small viewpoint and memorial plaque. From here, the track follows the fenceline and a remnant grassy 4WD track, darting in and out of small patches of bush before sidling east along the upper edge of the reserve to meet the Kaituna–Packhorse Track. Cross the stile and continue a further 500 metres to reach Packhorse Hut.
To complete the loop, return via the well-signposted Kaituna Valley Track. This section follows farm vehicle tracks down through open pasture before entering native bush. The track crosses the valley stream several times with stepping stones are usually usable in summer, but wet feet are likely after rain. Lower down, the track becomes well formed and fast underfoot, making for an enjoyable downhill run back to the car park. This section is well worn and regularly maintained.
Remnant pockets of ancient forest and subalpine vegetation. Expansive views across Kaituna Valley and the Canterbury Plains. Historic Packhorse Hut. Mature mataī, kahikatea, lowland tōtara, and thin-bark tōtara. Subalpine and rocky outcrop species including silver and eastern bristle tussock, Banks Peninsula sun hebe (Veronica lavaudiana), and Acaena dumicola — a rare bidibidi found only near Mounts Bradley and Herbert / Te Ahu Pātiki
Located at the Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve - a 2min drive South from the track carpark.
Parking is within a dedicated carpark off Kaituna Valley Road up Parkinsons Road.
44 km
49 minutes
No
No
Easy.
Patchy.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map
Small side streams are present along the Tūpari and Kaituna Tracks; however, these pass through active farmland and should be treated with caution. Packhorse Hut usually has water available in its tanks, but runners are encouraged to carry their own water, as hut water is primarily intended for overnight users.
Wasps may be present during the warmer months (September to March). Take care, particularly around track edges and rest areas.
Stinging Nettle (Ongaonga) is an endemic stinging nettle and is very common in this area and present along the edges of the track. Avoid contact, as the sting can be severe.
The White Rabbit Garden Cafe
1683 Christchurch Akaroa Road, Gebbies Valley 7672
https://www.facebook.com/thewhiterabbitgardencafe
Icecreams, Coffee, Pies & Brunch
Do you have another suggestion on where to go afterwards for the best coffee / cake / breakfast / brunch / beer?
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Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
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These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.
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