Ōtamahua/Quail Island tracks

All walks start from the main ferry jetty.

Ōtamahua/Quail Island Loop Track (full island circuit)

Time: 2 hr 30 min loop

4.5 km loop This walk around the island passes the front of the Ōtamahua Hut, through open grassland and along the basalt cliffs to the Ward brothers’ old cottage site. From here it leads to the northern point of the island and the bird observation barricade. Views extend down the harbour and across to Rapaki. Turn south-west and skirt the stock dam to reach a vantage point for an excellent view of the ships’ graveyard, which contains wrecks of at least 14 scuttled ships offshore. Continue along to the southern-most point of the island above Walkers Beach and past the quarry workings. The grave of Ivon Skelton, one of the leprosy sufferers that died on the island, is found here. Around the point the track turns north to the terraces behind the skiers’ beach where the leprosy colony buildings once stood. View the replica cottage (built by students of Catholic Cathedral College) and walk past the stone terraces, admiring the craftsmanship of early 20th century prisoners from Lyttelton Jail. Turn left to climb a short distance to the dog kennels site; a replica of these has also been built by the students. Return to the main track on the same path back down towards Whakamaru Beach and continue to the quarantine barracks. Walk around the beachfront, past the remains of the historic stock jetty and back to the ferry jetty.

Whakamaru Beach (Swimmers beach)

Time: 5 min one way

m one way Although the track from the ferry jetty is a bit steep, it’s worth the climb down to the beach, and the track surface is suitable for baby buggies. The beach is a safe place for swimming and the bay is reasonably sheltered. It is a great spot to pause, have a picnic lunch, fossick among the rocks or beach-comb for shells and seaweed to decorate a sand sculpture.

Summit Track

Time: 15 min one way Distance 700 m from Ōtamahua Hut

From the Ōtamahua Hut, walk the old tractor path as it gently climbs towards the highest point on the island. You will pass through a large area of replanting, the work of the Quail Island Ecological Restoration Trust. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding low mountains and Lyttelton Harbour. The Summit Track can also be reached from Whakamaru Beach via the Dog Kennel Track.

Dog Kennel Track

Time: 10 min one way

m from Whakamaru Beach This track gives access to the replica dog kennels historic site, and is also a shortcut across the island.