Wellington Regional Trails

This popular route leads you to wander through native forests surrounding the Ōrongorongo River, complete with swimming holes to cool off in summer.

Walking time

2 hr one way

Length

4.3km

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Wide single track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Profile

150m climb

-90m descent

199m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)

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About the trail

Located in the Catchpool and Ōrongorongo Valleys, the Ōrongorongo Track provides a popular area for camping, hiking, and walking. At 10km, the moderately challenging route takes an average of 2hr 45min to complete. Accessed south of Wainuiomata, the track is about 45 minutes from Wellington.

The trail climbs gently through mixed podocarp and broadleaf forest surrounding the Ōrongorongo River. And at the end of the walk, there are swimming holes at Tūrere Stream to cool off. This is a very popular walk, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Track reroute near Jacob’s Ladder

A section of track near Jacob’s Ladder has been rerouted due to the risk of an imminent collapse. The slip cannot be seen from the track and the reroute is clearly signposted. Turn back if you come across a section of rough, uneven track with deep cracks.

Person walking across a bridge through bush on the Ōrongorongo Track and Valley, Remutaka Forest Park, Wainuiomata.

The trail can be accessed from Catchpool Valley, located 12km south of Wainuiomata. To get there, follow Coast Road for 10km to the entrance of Remutaka Forest Park, then follow Catchpool Valley Road for 2km to the car park and information area.

The trail begins from the main car park, next to the small information shelter. Catchpool Valley trail is open during summer (daylight savings) from 6am to 8pm and in winter from 6am to 6pm.

Bus services only go as far as Wainuiomata, so alternative transport will need to be arranged to get to Catchpool Valley.

Looking for more?

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