Wellington Regional Trails

Northern Walkway

Take a journey through Wellington’s outer green belt and discover abandoned railway tunnels and expansive views.

Walking time

4 - 5 hr

Length

13.3km

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Double track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Profile

432m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)
A person sits on a wooden bench overlooking a view of Wellington from the Northern Walkway Trail.

About the trail

The Northern Walkway is a half-day trek along Wellington’s outer Green Belt. It spans from Johnsonville to the Botanic Gardens via Te Ahumairangi Hill (Tinakori Hill), Trelissick Park and Mount Kaukau.

Wind your way through hilly bush-clad terrain and discover abandoned railway tunnels and the city’s oldest scenic reserve. From the highest vantage points, you’ll get 360-degree views from the Remutaka Ranges and back towards the city and the sea.

The trail has many entrances so if you’re short on time you can just complete a section.

  • The trail starts at the end of Truscott Avenue in Johnsonville and ends at the top of the cable car in Upland Road, Kelburn.
  • You can also complete the journey in the opposite direction.
  • Limited on-street car parking is available on Truscott Avenue and Upland Road.
  • There are regular bus and train services to the surrounding areas. Timetables are available from Metlink.