Last updated July 2026
Black Jack Track is a loop walk starting from Pukatea/Whites Bay that climbs to a bluff lookout with views across Cook Strait, Te Whanganui/Port Underwood and Cape Campbell. The track offers a steady climb through regenerating native bush before descending through second-growth forest on the return loop. DOC describes it as an easy walking track that takes about 1.5 hours to complete the loop option, with the option to return the same way for a shorter outing. The area is part of the Blenheim coastal reserves managed by the Department of Conservation.
Practical Information
| Location | Pukatea/Whites Bay, accessed via Port Underwood Road from Rarangi |
| Distance | Loop option available (DOC does not list exact full-loop distance) |
| Time | 1.5 hours for the loop (DOC estimate) |
| Difficulty | Easy walking track; children must be closely supervised at the bluff |
| Track type | Loop or there-and-back; climbs to bluff lookout then descends through forest |
| Start point | Whites Bay near the DOC campsite and cable station |
| Driving access | From Blenheim, SH1 north 9 km to Tuamarina turnoff, then via Rarangi roads and Port Underwood Road (Whites Bay is 15 km from Tuamarina) |
| Facilities | Toilets and parking at Whites Bay campsite; no facilities on the track |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | Not permitted (DOC reserve) |
| Current status | Check DOC alerts and Marlborough District Council road updates; severe weather has damaged roads in the area and the Whites Bay campsite has been closed due to flood damage |
About the Track
Black Jack Track begins at Whites Bay and climbs steadily to a superb viewpoint on the edge of a bluff. From the lookout, visitors see Te Whanganui/Port Underwood to the north, Cook Strait, and Cape Campbell. The track then offers a loop option that winds down through regenerating forest before rejoining near the bay. Walkers can also return the same way for a shorter there-and-back trip focused on the lookout.
The bush along the route features typical eastern Marlborough coastal regeneration, with manuka and kanuka stands and taller native species in gullies. The upper section requires close supervision of children due to the exposed bluff. DOC notes that the bridge at the start has been removed, so care is needed when crossing the creek, whose flow changes with rainfall. Several slips exist along the route but remain passable with care.
Whites Bay serves as the main base, featuring a sheltered swimming beach, the historic cable station, and additional short walks such as the easy Pukatea Walk. The area is popular for combining the track with a swim or picnic at the bay.
Cook Strait and Port Underwood Views
The bluff lookout provides the highlight for most visitors, offering panoramic coastal scenery across Cook Strait with Port Underwood visible to the north. On clear days the southern North Island coastline can be seen, and passing ferries are sometimes visible in the distance. The steady climb rewards walkers with these expansive views on a relatively short outing.
Safety and Track Conditions
Key considerations include the exposed bluff sections near the lookout, where children must be supervised. The removed bridge means a creek crossing at the start; do not attempt this if water levels are high. Several slips are present but passable with care, and the track can become slippery in wet weather. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds are common, and wasps may be present in late summer and autumn. Always check current road and track conditions before travel due to recent flood damage in the Marlborough Sounds area.
Getting There
Access from Blenheim follows SH1 north for 9 km to the Tuamarina turnoff, then east via Hunter, Pembers and Rarangi Roads before climbing steeply on Port Underwood Road. Whites Bay lies 15 km from Tuamarina. An alternative route from Picton is 41 km along the winding, unsealed Port Underwood Road. The final approach is narrow and winding; allow extra time, especially for larger vehicles. Parking is available at the Whites Bay campsite.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Black Jack Track: official Department of Conservation page with track description, access details, alerts and conditions.
Marlborough NZ — Black Jack Track: official regional tourism information on the walk and combining it with other activities.
Marlborough District Council alerts: current road and access updates for the region including flood and weather impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Black Jack Track?
DOC estimates 1.5 hours to complete the loop option from Whites Bay.
Is Black Jack Track open?
The track itself is not listed as closed on the DOC page, but the Whites Bay campsite is closed due to flood damage and roads in the Marlborough Sounds have been affected. Check DOC alerts and council road updates before visiting.
Where does the track start?
At Whites Bay near the DOC campsite and cable station, accessed via Port Underwood Road from Rarangi.
What is the view from the lookout?
The bluff offers views of Te Whanganui/Port Underwood, Cook Strait and Cape Campbell, with the North Island coastline visible on clear days.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not permitted in this DOC reserve.
Is the track suitable for children?
The lookout bluff requires close supervision of children; the track is rated easy but has exposed sections.
How do I get to Whites Bay from Blenheim?
Drive north on SH1 for 9 km to Tuamarina, then follow the roads east through Rarangi and over Port Underwood Road (15 km total from the turnoff).
Can I mountain bike on the track?
A 1.9 km section is open to mountain bikers (Grade 3/Intermediate to 4/Advanced) for access to the Mount Robertson Loop Track; riders must travel uphill only on the designated branch.
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