The Banks Peninsula private track should be on every Kiwi’s bucket list, says photographer Majka Kaiser. Here’s why …
Experience the stunningly diverse track along an awe-inspiring rugged volcanic coast line, through lush native bush and sandy beaches. Observe wildlife in its natural habitat, relax in enchanting historic cottages and indulge in a much-deserved bath under the stars …
Accommodation in each of the four cottages provides the little luxuries that one usually has to do without in the great outdoors, and offers outstanding value for money. Most cottages have fully equipped kitchens, ample bedding for large groups, including the option of sleeping in one of the ‘stargazer huts’, hot showers and all the romance and cosiness of a crackling open fireplace.
The tremendous upside to having fully equipped kitchens and comfy bedding at every destination means you can fill the extra space in your pack with yummy culinary delicacies instead of the standard dull hikers’ fare. We managed to carry 14 eggs (without incident, I might add!) for a decadent super-rich brownie and crème brûlée.
One of our crew had organised us into pairs prior to our trip, to arrange dinner and dessert, which meant we only had to cook two out of four nights, giving us the rest of the time to relax in the evenings.
We were totally spoiled the first night with a cheese platter and homemade chutney to begin, followed with a fresh, rich cannelloni and topped off with delicious homemade baked coconut doris plums. Without a doubt this was the most fantastic culinary feast I’ve ever experienced in all my hiking history.
Our first pair of friends had most definitely set the bar extremely high that night, but I’m glad to report that the meals in the days to come were equally as carefully planned and hardly a disappointment to the taste buds.
Besides the tantalising tasty treats, the highlight of the trip was the utterly enchanting Stony Bay cottage. Upon opening the mossy wooden gates I stepped from dense vegetation into a clearing which appeared, as if in soft focus, through a delicate film of drizzle. The main cottage exhaled wisps of smoke lazily from its chimney and threadbare armchairs from another lifetime occupied the porch beneath lacy curtained windows.
Nestled amongst native flora and fauna, the main cottage is flanked by two smaller sleeping huts, and a tiny hut filled with local organic produce from the neighbouring farms and New Zealand wines, all payable via an honesty box.
In the far corner lies the ‘Honeymoon Cottage’ and a small museum containing a cobbled together collection of local artifacts, which stands amidst an array of native ferns and fruit trees offering up their glorious bounty; limbs laden with miniature apples, golden kiwifruit and pears.
Opposite the main cottage are the bathing quarters containing a shower hut and outdoor baths for that luxurious hot soak under the stars.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this walk will sink like a fish hook in your memory for years to come.
For more information and bookings, visit the Banks Track website.
Majka Kaiser spent several years living in London performing on the European opera circuit before returning home to Christchurch five years ago.
She now enjoys working as a freelance stylist and wordsmith for a handful of local publications, including as the editor of Home Living and her own art and design blog, Mint Style Studio, alongside copywriting and design for private clients.
