Wellington Regional Trails
Three cyclists ride on a paved path in a lush green valley.

About the park

Queen Elizabeth Park has the largest area of naturally occurring sand dunes on the Kāpiti Coast. There are several trail options across different landscapes, and most are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. It suits people of all ages and abilities.

The main park entrance is at Mackays Crossing but there are multiple access points along the way.

Suggested routes

The most popular trails in the park are Te Ara o Whareroa and the Coastal Track.

Te Ara o Whareroa is an easy 6km sealed path running north to south through the park. It’s a popular way to travel between Paekākāriki and Raumati South by bike or on foot. The trail connects with the Kāpiti Expressway shared path via Poplar Avenue and to Whareroa Farm via the Mackays Crossing underpass.

As its name suggests, the Coastal Track follows contours of the coast. It’s an easy ride for walkers and bikers and boasts beautiful coastal views.

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Along with walking and cycling the trails, the park has many other activities to enjoy:

  • The Wellington Tramway Museum offers historic tram rides on weekends and public holidays. Tram rides run from the museum, located inside the park near the Mackays Crossing entrance.
  • Horseriders can enjoy easy trails over farmland, and easy access to horse-friendly beaches.
  • Kapiti Aeromodellers Club airfield is located inside the park — keep an eye out for model aircraft in the sky.
  • The park is rich in history and features historic sites at Whareroa and Wainui beaches, and a US Marine Corps Memorial.
  • The Ramaroa Centre, an award-winning heritage centre, has information on the park’s natural heritage and activities on offer.
  • The beach is ideal for swimming. For your safety, swim between the flags at Paekākāriki Surf Club in the summer months.
  • There are plenty of good picnic spots in Queen Elizabeth Park.