Discovering Collinet Lookout
Collinet Lookout is located at Collinet Point, approximately 700 metres east of Channel Point, marking the northern end of French Pass / Te Aumiti. This short walk provides stunning views across to Rangitoto ki te Tonga / D’Urville Island and Admiralty Bay. The lookout is easily accessible, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the area.
Scenic Views and Cultural Insights
From the viewing platform at the end of the track, you can enjoy panoramic vistas not only of the surrounding islands and bays but also back towards French Pass. Along the track, interpretive panels provide insights into the area's cultural and historical significance to local Māori and Europeans, with a particular focus on the story of Kupe's visit to the region around 1,000 years ago and the much more recent story of Pelorus Jack.
Pelorus Jack
In 1888, a dolphin named Pelorus Jack began accompanying boats between Collinet Point and Pelorus Sound / Te Hoiere, an 8 km journey. Pelorus Jack became famous as the first dolphin in the world to receive legal protection. Notably, he never ventured beyond Collinet Point into French Pass, yet he faithfully guided boats for 24 years until his disappearance in 1912.
A statue of Pelorus Jack stands by the car park, and an informational panel recounts the story of this unique Risso’s dolphin, which is distinguished by its lack of a pointed snout.
Mythical Connections to Kupe
The story of Pelorus Jack is intertwined with the mythology of Kupe, the legendary Polynesian navigator. According to local lore, after Kupe discovered the region from Pelorus Sound / Te Hoiere to French Pass / Te Aumiti, he left his dolphin, Kaikaiawaro, to serve his descendants, the Ngāti Kuia. Kaikaiawaro is said to have carved out Pelorus Sound with its snout and has appeared to the iwi during times of need, with the promise of returning in the future.
How to Get There
Collinet Lookout is on Croisilles French Pass Road, shortly before you reach French Pass. From the car park, it's a short walk to the viewing platform at Collinet Point.
Shortly before you arrive at Collinet Point, you can also visit Frenchpass Lookout, with a different perspective over the wild water between D'Urville Island and the mainland. On the road to French Pass, you can also visit Ōkiwi and Elaine Bay.
