Mākara Walkway

About the trail

Mākara Walkway is a popular half-day trail that soars above the rocky shorelines of Mākara Beach. You’ll start by weaving your way along the beach, then uphill over grassy farmland to clamber up the cliffs. Once you’re at the top, you’ll find spectacular views of Mana, the Kāpiti coastline, and the South Island. You can walk back down the same trail or complete the loop around the coast and enjoy the fresh Wellington wind along Mākara Beach.

At the top of the trail, you’ll find West Wind farm’s 62 wind turbines, and sheep and cattle farmland.

In pre-European times Māori populated the area because of its strategic position and access to plentiful seafood. There are many historic sites in the area, including pā, ngakia (gardens), and urupa (burial grounds).

Gold mining took place in the area between the 1860s and the early 20th century. During WWII, gun emplacements and structures were built on the cliffs overlooking the Cook Strait.