Cable Bay Walkway (Cable Bay End)

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The absolute standout of the Cable Bay Walkway is the panoramic views. On a clear day, the visibility is staggering. You can easily trace the long, stony sweep of the Boulder Bank (Te Pokohiwi), see the sprawling layout of Nelson City, and look right across the bay to the jagged, snow-capped peaks of Kahurangi National Park and the golden coast of Abel Tasman National Park.

For the photographers, the initial ascent provides the best vantage points for capturing the "hidden" feel of Cable Bay. The contrast between the bright green farmland and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean is striking.

Another highlight is the native forest section. It is a beautiful example of the New Zealand bush, featuring ancient trees and a dense understorey of ferns. It provides a peaceful, meditative break from the sun-drenched (and often wind-swept) ridges. Keep an eye out for the unique geological formations along the coast—the area is a fascinating mix of rugged cliffs and gentle slopes that tell a story of millions of years of coastal erosion and tectonic uplift.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward. From Nelson, it’s about a 20-minute drive north. Follow State Highway 6 and turn off onto Cable Bay Road. Follow this winding, scenic road all the way to the end.

The official starting point is located at 821 Cable Bay Road. You’ll find a good-sized parking area directly in front of the sign signalling the start of the track. If that’s full, there is additional parking nearby on the stony beach area. The parking is generally considered safe, but as with any popular trailhead, it’s always a good idea to keep your valuables out of sight or take them with you.

Wildlife Spotting

The Cable Bay Walkway is a fantastic spot for bird lovers. Because the trail moves between open farmland and dense bush, you get a great variety of species.

In the forested sections, keep your ears open for the melodic, bell-like call of the Tūī and the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of wings that signals a Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) flying overhead. These large, iridescent green and white birds are very common here year-round. You’ll also likely be joined by the inquisitive Pīwakawaka (Fantail), which loves to follow hikers to snatch up the tiny insects disturbed by your footsteps.

Keep a sharp eye on the ground for the Weka, a flightless and notoriously cheeky bird known for its curiosity. Near the shoreline and the estuary at the start of the walk, you might even spot a Kororā (Little Blue Penguin) if you are there at dawn or dusk, or the Banded Dotterel, which is occasionally seen during the spring and summer months.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

This is a true year-round trail, but each season brings a different flavour to the experience:

• Spring: The hills are a vibrant, lush green, and the lambs are out in the paddocks. This is also the best time to see the Banded Dotterel.
• Summer: The most popular time. The sea looks invitingly blue, and the Cable Bay Cafe is buzzing. However, the ridge is very exposed, so the heat can be intense.
• Autumn: Often the best for hiking—the air is crisp, the wind is usually lighter, and the light has a golden quality that is perfect for photography.
• Winter: While it can be chilly, the views of the snow-capped mountains across the bay are at their most dramatic.

Best time to start: I recommend an early morning start, around 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM. This allows you to tackle the heaviest climb before the midday sun hits and ensures you are back in time for a late lunch.

• Sturdy Footwear: With 850m of elevation gain and some steep, slippery sections (especially after rain), hiking boots or high-grip trail runners are a must.
• Water & Food: There are no water sources on the trail. Bring at least 2 litres of water and plenty of high-energy snacks.
• Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the coastal UV levels are high. Pack a hat and sunscreen.
• Layers: The weather here can change in a heartbeat. A windbreaker or light rain jacket is essential, as the ridgeline can be incredibly gusty.

Note for families and pet owners: While this track is kid-friendly for older children with a good level of fitness, it might be a bit much for very young kids due to the steepness and total distance. Also, please note that dogs are not allowed on this walkway to protect the livestock and native birdlife.

Local & Regional Context

Cable Bay, or Kāpuatone, holds a significant place in New Zealand’s history. It is most famous for being the site of New Zealand’s first overseas telegraph cable link to Australia, which opened in 1876. This transformed communication for the young colony, turning what was once a weeks-long wait for news into a matter of hours.

The area is also deeply significant to local Māori. The Horoirangi Marine Reserve, which sits just offshore, is named after an ancestral figure, and the coastline has been a source of mahinga kai (food gathering) for centuries.

Geologically, the Boulder Bank you see from the heights is one of the most unique features in the world. It is a 13km-long natural spit of granodiorite boulders, formed by longshore drift. Seeing it from the elevation of the Cable Bay Walkway is the best way to appreciate its immense scale.

After the Walk

There is no better way to reward yourself after 7 hours on the trail than a visit to the Cable Bay Cafe. Located just a few hundred metres from the trailhead, this is a local favourite for a reason.

The cafe is famous for its 'Cable Baygels'—delicious, loaded bagels that are perfect for refueling. They also offer a great range of fresh cabinet food, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. If the sun is out, grab a seat in their outdoor area. Sipping a flat white while looking out over the beach you just walked above is the perfect end to a day in Nelson.