Black Jack Track is a loop walk above Pukatea/Whites Bay, climbing through regenerating native bush to a bluff lookout with views across Cook Strait and Port Underwood. It’s one of the more challenging walks in the Whites Bay area, with a steady climb to around 200 metres elevation, and rewards walkers with one of the best coastal panoramas in eastern Marlborough. The track is around 5.5km long and takes most people about 1.5 hours.
Important — current status: The Department of Conservation reports the wider Whites Bay area is affected by flood damage and access has been restricted. Always check the DOC track alerts page before planning a visit — track conditions in this area have been changing.
Practical Information
| Location | Pukatea/Whites Bay, Port Underwood Road (off Rarangi) |
| Distance | Approximately 5.5km loop |
| Time | 1.5 hours (DOC estimate); 1–2 hours depending on fitness |
| Difficulty | Grade 3 (Intermediate) to Grade 4 (Advanced) |
| Elevation | Climbs to a lookout at around 200m |
| Track type | Loop — climb up to lookout, descend through regenerating forest |
| Start point | Pukatea/Whites Bay (south end, near the campsite) |
| Driving access | Tuamarina turnoff from SH1, through Rarangi, then over Port Underwood Road — around 15km from Tuamarina |
| Facilities | Toilets and parking at Whites Bay campsite; no facilities on the track itself |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | No — DOC reserve, dogs not permitted |
| Current status | Check DOC alerts before visiting (flood damage in area) |
About the Track
Black Jack Track starts near the southern end of Pukatea/Whites Bay and climbs steadily through regenerating native bush to a high point with a bluff lookout. The climb is the main effort — once you reach the top, you get an open outlook across Cook Strait, with Port Underwood visible to the north and on a clear day views stretching toward the North Island. The lookout sits at roughly 200 metres above sea level, which gives it a sense of being much higher than the walk’s modest distance might suggest.
From the lookout, the track loops down through second-growth forest before rejoining the access near the bay. Walkers who don’t want the full loop can return the way they came, which gives a there-and-back option to the lookout. The bush along the climb is a mix of regenerating native species typical of the eastern Marlborough coast — manuka and kanuka stands giving way to taller native canopy in the gullies.
The track is rated Grade 3 (Intermediate) by DOC, with sections that reach Grade 4 (Advanced) due to the steep bluffs near the lookout. It’s not suitable for young children because of the exposed bluff sections. Walkers should also be aware that DOC has flagged several slips on the track and that a bridge at the start has been removed, meaning a creek crossing is required.
Whites Bay itself is the natural base for the walk — a sheltered swimming bay with a DOC campsite, the historic Cable Station, and several other short tracks (including the easy Pukatea Walk). Most people pair the climb with a swim or rest at the bay afterwards.
Cook Strait and Port Underwood Views
The lookout view is what most walkers come for. From the bluff you look out over Cook Strait, with the dark cliffs and bays of Port Underwood stretching to the north. On clear days the southern coastline of the North Island is visible across the Strait, and ferries crossing between Picton and Wellington can often be seen in the distance. Marlborough Online describes the lookout as offering some of the best coastal views in the area, and the steady climb is what makes it possible to reach an outlook of this quality on what is still a relatively short walk.
Safety and Track Conditions
Several things to be aware of before walking Black Jack Track:
Steep bluffs near the lookout — the upper section runs along exposed bluffs. Stay on the marked track. Not suitable for young children or anyone uncomfortable with exposure.
Creek crossing — the bridge at the start of the track has been removed. The creek is usually crossable with care, but waterflow changes with rain. Do not attempt to cross if the creek is in flood.
Slips on the track — DOC notes several slips along the route. All are passable with care, but watch your footing, especially in wet weather.
Wet weather — the climb gets slippery in rain and the descent through forest holds moisture. Boots with good grip are recommended over trail runners or trainers.
Current closure status — flood damage has affected the wider Whites Bay area. Always check the DOC track alerts page for current closures and conditions before you travel.
Getting There
The access route is part of the experience. From Blenheim, follow SH1 north for 9km to the Tuamarina turnoff, then take the side road east through Rarangi. From Rarangi the road climbs steeply over rugged hills via Port Underwood Road before descending to Whites Bay, about 15km from Tuamarina in total. The drive itself is narrow, winding and slow — allow more time than the distance suggests, particularly if you are driving a campervan or towing. There is parking at the Whites Bay campsite at the end of the road.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Black Jack Track — the official Department of Conservation track page with current status, track grading, and any closure alerts. Check this before any visit.
Marlborough Online — Black Jack Track — local description of the walk including driving directions and what to expect at the lookout.
Marlborough NZ — Black Jack Track — the official Marlborough tourism page, useful for combining the walk with other local activities and accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Black Jack Track at Whites Bay?
The loop is around 5.5km. DOC estimates 1.5 hours to complete, though fitter walkers can do it faster.
Is the Black Jack Track open right now?
The Whites Bay area has been affected by flood damage and access has been restricted. Always check the DOC alerts page for the latest status before planning a visit.
Where does the Black Jack Track start?
At the southern end of Pukatea/Whites Bay, near the DOC campsite. Drive in via Port Underwood Road from Rarangi.
How hard is the Black Jack Track?
DOC grades it Intermediate to Advanced. The climb is steady and the upper section runs along steep bluffs, so it’s not suitable for young children or anyone unsteady on rough terrain.
What’s the view like from the lookout?
The lookout sits at around 200m and looks out over Cook Strait, with Port Underwood to the north and the coast of the North Island visible across the Strait on clear days.
Are dogs allowed on Black Jack Track?
No — dogs are not permitted in DOC reserves, including Whites Bay and Black Jack Track.
How do I get to Whites Bay from Blenheim?
Take SH1 north to Tuamarina (about 9km), turn off and drive through Rarangi, then over Port Underwood Road. Whites Bay is about 15km from the Tuamarina turnoff and the road is narrow and winding.
For more local walks see all walking tracks in Blenheim. Nearby on the same headland: the much shorter and easier Pukatea Walk at Whites Bay is suitable for all ages.
