Mount Robertson tracks

Loop

The descent requires just as much concentration as the climb. The Marlborough clay can be notoriously slippery, especially after a bit of rain. Between the steep gradients and the rocky patches, your knees will certainly know they’ve been for a walk by the time you close the loop.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed crown jewel of this hike is the Rocky Outcrop. While the actual summit of Mount Robertson is home to a large radar station that can slightly obscure the 360-degree views, a rocky vantage point just a short distance below the summit offers the "hero shot" you’ve been climbing for. From here, the world opens up. You can trace the winding curves of the Wairau Valley, look across to the rugged Richmond Range, and on those crisp, clear Marlborough days, you can see right across the Cook Strait to the South Coast of the North Island.

Another highlight is the Rarangi-Whites Bay Track connection. If you have the energy, linking these tracks allows you to experience the transition from a rugged coastal environment to a sub-alpine peak in a single day.

For many, the "highlight" is the sheer solitude. Unlike some of the more famous tracks in the nearby Abel Tasman, Mount Robertson sees far fewer boots. You’ll often have long stretches of the beech forest entirely to yourself, punctuated only by the sound of the wind in the canopy and the call of a distant bird.

Getting There

To get to the main trailhead, head toward Whites Bay, which is roughly a 20-minute drive from Rarangi or about 35 minutes from Blenheim. The road into Whites Bay (Port Underwood Road) is sealed but narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the coastal views.

There is ample parking at the Whites Bay recreation reserve, which also features a popular Department of Conservation (DOC) campsite. From the beach area, you can follow the signposts to connect with the Mount Robertson tracks.

Alternatively, if you want a slightly shorter (though still very steep) version of the walk, there are two signposted entry points further up Port Underwood Road. Be warned, though: off-road parking at these specific track entrances is very limited—usually just enough for one or two cars on the shoulder of a narrow road. Starting at Whites Bay is generally the safer and more scenic option.

Wildlife Spotting

The Mount Robertson Scenic Reserve is a haven for native birdlife, and the "bird song" here is often exceptional. As you move through the different forest tiers, keep your eyes and ears open for:

• Bellbird (Korimako): Their clear, liquid song is the soundtrack to the beech forest. Look for them high in the canopy.
• Kererū: You’ll likely hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see these large, green-and-white pigeons.
• Tūī: Known for their white throat tufts and incredibly complex mimicry.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds will often follow hikers to snack on the insects kicked up by your boots.
• South Island Robin (Toutouwai): If you stop for a snack, these curious birds might hop right up to your feet.
• Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Kākāriki): Listen for a high-pitched "ki-ki-ki-ki" sound; they are bright green and very fast, making them a lucky spot!

Tip: The best time for bird spotting is early morning. If you start your hike at 8:00 am, the forest will be at its most vocal.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring and Autumn are arguably the best. The temperatures are cooler for that massive 1190m climb, and the air is often very clear for views.
• Summer is stunning but can be punishingly hot. Much of the track is under the forest canopy, which provides shade, but the humidity in the bush can be high.
• Winter offers the crispest views, but the track can become very muddy and the clay sections dangerously slick. You may even see a dusting of snow on the summit on the coldest days.

• Water: There are no reliable water sources once you leave the bottom, so carry at least 2–3 litres per person.
• Footwear: Robust hiking boots with good grip are essential. This is not a place for sneakers.
• Layers: Even if it’s warm at the beach, the summit is over 1000 metres high and very exposed. It can be 10 degrees colder at the top with a biting wind.
• Sun Protection: Even in the forest, the NZ sun is fierce. Wear sunscreen and a hat for the exposed summit and road sections.

Safety Note: A portion of the loop involves walking along Port Underwood Road. This is a narrow, winding road used by logging trucks and locals. Stay on the verge, walk facing traffic, and be extremely vigilant on blind corners.

Local & Regional Context

Mount Robertson is known to local Māori as Tokomaru. The name carries weight in Māori history, often linked to the Tokomaru waka (canoe), one of the great voyaging canoes that brought Polynesians to Aotearoa. The peak served as a vital landmark for navigation and a lookout point for the iwi (tribes) inhabiting the Marlborough Sounds and Wairau plains.

The area is part of a significant Scenic Reserve, which acts as a "mainland island" of sorts for native biodiversity. The transition from the coastal environment of Whites Bay to the high-altitude beech forest represents a classic slice of Marlborough’s natural heritage. By hiking here, you are walking through a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for centuries, offering a glimpse into the wild Marlborough that existed before the valleys were cleared for farming and viticulture.

After the Walk

After a 10-hour mission, you’re going to be starving. Here are the best spots to refuel:

• The Linkwater Country Inn: Located just down the road in Linkwater, this is the classic "local" spot. It’s unpretentious, friendly, and serves up hearty meals that are perfect for hungry hikers. Their burgers and chips are legendary after a big day on the hill.
• Picton Waterfront: If you’re heading back toward the ferry terminal, Picton has a range of cafes and pubs. The Seabreeze Cafe or Cousins are great for a coffee and a massive slice of cake, while The Irish Hub is the go-to for a celebratory pint and some bangers and mash.
• Blenheim Wineries: If you finish early enough and want to treat yourself, you’re only 30 minutes away from some of the world's best wineries. A glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and a cheese platter at a place like Saint Clair Family Estate is a pretty sophisticated way to celebrate a mountain summit!