Castlepoint Lighthouse Walk
In a region full of wonderful vistas, this short trail along a wild, rugged coastline leads to one of the most recognisable landmarks in New Zealand.
420m climb
-420m descent
785m highest point
Gentle Annie Track is an easy 3 to 4-hour scenic walk that showcases the best of Tararua Forest Park. You’ll explore native forests and cross boardwalks through the woody vegetation at ‘Pig Flat’. Stop to rest at ‘Mountain House Shelter’, where you’ll see some of the most beautiful and mature silver beech forests in the Greater Wellington region.
You’ll have the option to veer off the trail to Rocky Lookout, where you’ll take in panoramic views of Mount Holdsworth and the upper Atiwhakatu Valley. Choose to join up with Totara Creek Track or continue on the Holdsworth - Kaitoke Track.
If you’re keen to change things up on your return journey, head back via the ‘Donnelly Flat Loop Walk’ and enjoy an interesting round trip through lush native forests.
The trail starts from the entrance to Tararua Forest Park on Mount Holdsworth Road. To get there, turn off State Highway 2 into Norfolk Road Road and follow the signs to Tararua Forest Park.
There are regular train services from Wellington to Masterton. Timetables are available from the Metlink website. However, you will need to drive from Masterton to Tararua Forest Park.
In a region full of wonderful vistas, this short trail along a wild, rugged coastline leads to one of the most recognisable landmarks in New Zealand.
An easy walk for the whole family among mature podocarp and broadleaf native trees in the Tararua Range.
Get up close and personal with ancient rock formations that featured in The Lord of The Rings: The Return of the King.
Walk alongside the Atiwhakatu River and return the same day, or rest at Atiwhakatu Hut overnight.
A popular all-weather walking and mountain biking track overlooking Wainuiomata and Lower Hutt.
East Harbour Regional ParkA zigzag trail with options for exploring more of the East Harbour Regional Park, including the popular Butterfly Creek picnic area and views over Wellington Harbour.
The original Greytown to Woodside railway line provides a beautiful and family-friendly walking path.
Follow the picturesque Hutt River all the way from Petone to Upper Hutt on this easy, well-maintained trail.
Coast 35 connects Paekākāriki and Ōtaki through an off-road shared trail that runs parallel with the Kāpiti Expressway.
Ramble around this stunning nature reserve that sits right in the middle of Wellington Harbour.
The multi-day circuit around Mount Holdsworth gives you the opportunity to explore the tops of the Tararua Range. Enjoy 360-degree views of Wairarapa and Wellington.
Take a journey through Wellington’s outer green belt and discover abandoned railway tunnels and expansive views.
This popular route leads you to wander through native forests surrounding the Ōrongorongo River, complete with swimming holes to cool off in summer.
Follow the banks of the Ōtaki River on this popular walking and mountain biking trail, offering views of the coastline, river, and the Tararua Range.
Travel along a flat winding trail to the historic Pencarrow Lighthouse and the shores of Lake Kohangatera.