Mt Herbert Cold Water Spring, Diamond Harbour, Canterbury, New Zealand

## Overview Mt Herbert Cold Water Spring is a natural spring located on the slopes of Te Ahu Pātiki (Mt Herbert), the highest point on Banks Peninsula near Diamond Harbour in Canterbury, New Zealand. The spring percolates through gravelly volcanic slopes and has been collected into concrete troughs, making it relatively easy for walkers to access the water. Historically, the spring has been used as a refreshment stop for trampers ascending the Mt Herbert Walkway. The area surrounding the spring carries a poignant piece of local history. Near the spring stand the charred remains of a burnt tōtara stump — the last remnant of what was once a magnificent tōtara forest that covered these slopes. According to local historian Honora Renwick, the tree was felled by farmers in 1923 to clear land for sheep grazing, marking the end of an era for the native bush that once defined this landscape. The stump serves as a sobering reminder of the extensive deforestation that transformed Banks Peninsula from dense podocarp forest to open farmland during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The spring sits at approximately 43°40'S, 172°44'E, on the eastern side of the ridge that runs from Diamond Harbour up to the 919-metre summit of Mt Herbert. ## Directions 1. Begin at the Mt Herbert Walkway, accessible from Diamond Harbour on Banks Peninsula. 2. Follow the main walkway along the ridge heading toward the summit of Mt Herbert (Te Ahu Pātiki). 3. Approximately two-thirds of the way up the hill, look for a spur track branching off to the eastern side. 4. Take this 4WD track along the eastern spur. 5. The spring and its concrete troughs are located along this spur track. **GPS Coordinates:** -43.40353, 172.44293 **Important access note:** The Mt Herbert Walkway crosses private farmland on Banks Peninsula. Access may be restricted during lambing season, which has historically been from August through mid-September (though some sources indicate closures may extend through October). The Kaituna section of the track, managed by landowner Hon. David Carter, has previously been closed for approximately six weeks from August to mid-September. Check current access conditions with the local council or the Banks Peninsula Track website before setting out, as closures and track conditions can change. ## What to Expect The spring emerges from the gravelly volcanic slopes characteristic of Banks Peninsula's ancient volcanic geology and flows into concrete collection troughs. The water has historically been used by trampers as a drinking water source, though as with any backcountry water source, visitors should assess conditions for themselves. The setting is exposed hillside with sweeping views across Banks Peninsula and Lyttelton Harbour. The walk to the spring is a moderately strenuous uphill tramp along the well-known Mt Herbert Walkway, one of the classic day walks on Banks Peninsula. The trail follows a ridge line offering panoramic views of the harbour, the Canterbury Plains, and on clear days, the Southern Alps. Be sure to look for the historic burnt tōtara stump near the spring — it's a tangible connection to the ancient forests that once blanketed these hills. The surrounding landscape, now largely open tussock and farmland, makes it hard to imagine the dense native bush that once stood here. Weather on Banks Peninsula can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Come prepared with layers and rain gear, and carry sufficient water for the walk in case the spring flow is reduced during dry periods.