300 Port Underwood Road, Karaka Point, Marlborough

Karaka Point

Marlborough Walks

The seemingly idyllic Te Rae o Karaka Historic Reserve is actually the site of conflict, trauma and bloodshed. The reason for this is the same reason it is considered a scenic point now, the enormous 270 degree views of the entire Queen Charlotte (Totaranui) sound.

The tactical and strategic advantages of this little peninsula were early identified by Maori and several different Hapu (sub-tribes) may have set up camp here, with the point used as a lookout, and the pa a short distance away. Fortifications to defend the point even included a (still visible) trench across the narrowest part of the peninsula which would slow the approach of any attacking force.

Exactly who the early users of this point were, and when they came and went, is not known because there has been no archaeological dig at this site, despite it's apparent history. Probably the first arrivals were the Kati Mamoe. Some of what is known about the conflict with Te Atiawa in 1830 is described in 'The Prow'. It is possible that both Rangitane and Ngati Apa used this 'retreat Pa' to defend themselves from the incoming North Island raiders but were defeated by the attackers use of firearms. Te Rauparaha and Ngati Toa were also reported to have taken Karaka Point in the 1830s.

It is only a 400m walk to the Point from the carpark. Along the way you will see the defensive trench, and 'pit' remnants which would have been the base part of foot storage or sleeping pits which would have also had roofs.

Features

  • Summer
  • Bench
  • Lake

Location

Directions

Nearby this Place

Explore

Featured Nearby

Nearby Walks

Snout Track

Snout Track

4.3 km 3

View
Bob's Bay Reserve

Bob's Bay Reserve

4.6 km

View
Kaipupu Point  Wildlife Sanctuary

Kaipupu Point Wildlife Sanctuary

5.4 km 1

View
Queen Charlotte Track

Queen Charlotte Track

6.2 km 2

View

Featured Nearby

You May Also Like

Waikawa Marina
Waikawa Marina

Waikawa, Marlborough

2.5 km 2

Picton Shore Tours for Cruise Passengers
Picton Shore Tours for Cruise Passengers

Picton, Marlborough

5.8 km 1

Shelley Beach
Shelley Beach

Picton, Marlborough

5.8 km

Cook Strait Ferries
Cook Strait Ferries

Picton, Marlborough

6.0 km 1