21 Pā Bay & Greater Okains Bay

Walk 21:

Pā Bay and Greater Okains Bay: Blended Elements of our Landscape with Dr. Sam Hampton, Frontiers Abroad, Department of Geological Sciences, University of Canterbury, and Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū / Banks Peninsula Geopark

This walk and talk excursion begins in Okains Bay, and follow farms tracks through Kawatea (Little Okains Bay) and out along the eastern headland to the isolated Pā Bay.

This informative walk will guide you through the geology of Banks Peninsula and explore the eruptive process and mechanisms of the rock exposures on the shore platform of Pā Bay. We examine the features of the pā sites (defences), kāinga (village), and gardens that are still recognisable in the landscape, and how the natural setting, biodiversity and resources led to the occupation and development of these sites. We will further discuss how our geology, ecology, archaeology and cultural history are interwoven in the ‘Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū / Banks Peninsula Geopark’.

Length of Walk/talk: 7 and a half hours

Walk Difficulty: Tramp - Track mostly unformed with prolonged up and down

Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip or hiking boots. Bring snacks, lunch, water bottle, sunhat, sunscreen, layered clothing and a waterproof jacket.

Present your ticket to get 10% off all gear from Further Faster on Buchan Street in Christchurch! (paddle gear, electronics, hut passes and gift cards not eligible for this discount).

Please be aware that credit card fees apply to bookings.