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1. Onawe Peninsula (easy, photogenic, 60 mins)
A flat, scenic walk out along the peninsula with water on both sides and big harbour views. Great for families and anyone who wants “maximum scenery, minimum effort.” Check tides and weather before you go.
2. Akaroa Village Loops: Woodills South/North (1.5–2.5 hrs)
If you want a walk straight from town, these loops give you cute streets, bush, and a couple of very good outlooks back over the harbour. Pair the two for a longer outing.
3. Hinewai Reserve (choose your length)
Hinewai is a regenerating reserve with proper Banks Peninsula atmosphere, birds, bush, and that slow, green hush. Tracks range from one hour to a full day, so tell us how long you want to be out and we’ll point you to the right entrance.
Photo credit By Michal Klajban - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=81991532
4. Akaroa Head / Lighthouse area (short but dramatic)
If you’re chasing drama, cliffs, ocean, history, then head out to Akaroa Head. On a clear day, it’s spectacular, and still beautiful in moody weather.
5. Banks Track section walks (full-day, unforgettable)
The full Banks Track is 2–3 days, but even doing the Akaroa section gives you “I can see the whole harbour” moments. One for good walkers.
View tips from Newton Heights
Mornings = softer harbour light, perfect from our terraces.
Winter/shoulder = clearer skies, better long-range views.
Tell us your fitness level and time, and we’ll customise an itinerary around your booking.
Planning to walk? Book your stay at Newton Heights and use us as your base for breakfast before you go, and then soak in the hot spa when you return.
To view more walking tracks, visit https://www.bankspeninsulawalks.co.nz/akaroa-walks/
Take in the sea breeze and stunning sunsets on your own private outdoor terraces.
Enjoy a soothing soak while taking in stunning views, each apartment features its own private spa, while B&B guests can unwind in a shared outdoor spa.
Stay connected to high speed WiFi with overage throughout the properties.
Comfort comes in the form of king-sized beds with luxurious bed linen & exquisite interiors.
“Highly recommend this lovely spot and hosts Brendon and Gail. They're easy, gracious, interested in their guest, and amazing cooks.”
Emily T
February 10th 2025
Our recent stay at Newton Heights B&B was the highlight of our three-week tour of South Island. The owner/hosts Brendon and Gail are engaging and gracious, their architecturally designed home is stunning and comfortable and the breakfast (complete with barista quality coffee choices) was abundant and divine. Beautiful views over Akaroa Harbour and easy walking distance to the village. Simply perfect in all regards!
Eleanor R
February 10th 2025
This review may sound a little extreme however as a B&B experience this is a "must do". It's not just the joy de la vive of the welcoming hosts Gail and Brendan or the views from all corners of their beautiful home. Its not just the spa pool, the conversation, the silence as required, the comfort, cleanliness and fab breakfast its the feeling you've walked into the true warmth of an Akaroa experience - it was unforgettable!
Jenny S
February 10th 2025