Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The star of the show is, without a doubt, the Packhorse Hut. Built in 1914, this historic stone cottage looks like it belongs in the Scottish Highlands or a Tolkien novel. It was part of an ambitious vision by conservationist Harry Ell, who dreamed of a series of "rest houses" along a summit route from Christchurch to Akaroa. Today, it stands as a beautifully maintained nine-bunk serviced hut. Even if you aren't staying the night, the rustic fireplace and the history etched into its stone walls make it a fantastic lunch spot.

Another geological marvel you won't want to miss is the Remarkable Dykes. As you skirt below the ridges, you’ll see these striking vertical walls of volcanic rock. These were formed millions of years ago when molten lava was forced into cracks within the now-extinct volcano. They stand like ancient, crumbling fortifications and provide a dramatic backdrop for photos.

Finally, the panoramic views from the hut’s front door are hard to beat. You can trace the entire Lyttelton Harbour basin, spot Quail Island/Ōtamahua floating in the middle, and look across to the distinctive profiles of the Port Hills.

Getting There

Getting to the trailhead is a breeze. From Christchurch, follow the signs toward Akaroa via State Highway 75. Turn onto Gebbies Pass Road (near the Motukarara Racecourse). The drive takes about 30 minutes.

At the very crest of Gebbies Pass Road, on the Lyttelton side, you’ll find a small gravel car park. It only fits about half a dozen vehicles, so it can get tight on sunny weekends. If you arrive and it’s full, please be mindful of where you park to ensure farm machinery and other road users can still get through.

Wildlife Spotting

The Banks Peninsula is a haven for native birdlife, and the mix of forest and open tussock on this trail means you’ll likely hear them before you see them.

• Bellbird (Korimako): These are very common year-round. Listen for their clear, bell-like song in the pine forest sections. They are often high in the canopy but are quite vocal in the early morning.
• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds will likely follow you along the track, flitting about to catch the insects your boots kick up.
• Kererū: Keep an eye out for these heavy-set native wood pigeons. You’ll often hear the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see their iridescent green and white feathers.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): Though they are small and hard to spot, their long, high-pitched warbling song is a constant soundtrack to the bush sections.

Top Tip: If you’re hiking in the early morning, find a quiet spot in the forest section and just sit for five minutes. The "dawn chorus" here, while not as loud as a dedicated bird sanctuary, is still a beautiful experience.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut track is a "four seasons" walk, but each time of year brings a different flavour:

• Spring: The hills are a vibrant green, but be aware of the lambing season diversion (usually August to October). The track may be rerouted to protect young lambs, so follow all local signage.
• Summer: Long days and golden tussocks. However, the track is very exposed. There is little shade once you leave the forest, so a hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and plenty of water are non-negotiable.
• Autumn: This is arguably the best time to go. The air is often still and crisp, providing the best visibility of the Southern Alps.
• Winter: It can get very cold and windy on the ridge. You might even see a dusting of snow around the hut. If you’re heading up in winter, take plenty of layers and check the forecast for southerly fronts.

• Water: There is no drinking water along the trail until you reach the hut, and even then, it’s rainwater that should be treated/boiled. Carry at least 2 litres per person.
• Footwear: Sturdy boots or high-grip trail runners are best.
• Windbreaker: Even on a hot day, the wind at the saddle can be biting.
• Bookings: If you plan to stay overnight, you must book through the DOC website in advance. It’s a popular spot for families, so it fills up fast!

Local & Regional Context

This area is steeped in both Māori and European history. To Ngāi Tahu, the harbour is Whakaraupō, a place of significant mahinga kai (food gathering). The volcanic history of the Peninsula is what gives the land its dramatic "ribbed" appearance, with the steep ridges being the remnants of two massive ancient volcanoes.

The track itself is a tribute to Harry Ell’s tenacity. He spent the latter part of his life obsessively building the Summit Road and its associated rest houses, often fighting for funding and public support. Packhorse Hut is one of the few surviving pieces of his grand vision, built by master stonemasons using local volcanic rock. It’s a physical link to the early days of New Zealand’s conservation and tourism movement.

After the Walk

After 11.6km of hill work, you’ve earned a treat. Just a short 3km drive from the bottom of Gebbies Pass is the Ōtoromiro Hotel in Governors Bay.

Known affectionately by locals as simply "the pub," this historic hotel dates back to 1870. It’s the quintessential post-hike destination. You can grab a seat on the deck with a cold local craft beer or a lemonade and enjoy the views of the harbour from a much more relaxed vantage point. Their classic pub fare—think hearty burgers and fish and chips—is exactly what the doctor ordered after a morning on the hills. The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is pure Kiwi hospitality.