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 Rapaki Road and Centaurus Road, Hillsborough.

Finish: Rapaki Track carpark, Summit Road.

Distance: 3.5km.

Time: 45 minutes.

Dogs: Must be kept on leads.

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 carpark on Summit Road.

At this point the car park marks the end of vehicle access along the 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.