Archer Track

Allow 1 hour 30 minutes to Deep Bay which is half way, or 3 hours to walk the whole track. Enjoy stunning views of Tennyson Inlet and islands from this track. The bush goes right to the coast along part of the track and then opens out into pine forest closer to Elaine Bay.

Mountain biking

You can mountain bike on Archer Track.

The Kennett Brothers book "Classic New Zealand Mountain Bike Rides" has the track classified easy to advanced.

You can get to this track by turning off SH6 near Rai Valley onto Ronga Road then right into Opouri Road. Follow the road over Opouri Saddle then turn left onto Archer Road and drive to Penzance where the track starts.

You can also start the track from Elaine Bay which is accessed from the road to French Pass.

Water taxi services are available from Havelock. You can also hire yachts, launches, motor boats, and sea kayaks.

• The weather in the Sounds is generally mild, but conditions can change quickly, especially on the water. Ensure that you have adequate equipment and experience, and if you are going out on the water, check the marine weather forecast.
• Light fires only in designated areas.
• Boil, filter, or treat water for drinking. On some tracks you must carry water.
• In late summer and autumn, carry antihistamine if allergic to wasp stings.

Private land

This track passes through private land in places. Ensure you respect the private land by staying on the track and keeping your dogs on leads.

Water safety

If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.