Te Ara o Whareroa
Queen Elizabeth ParkWalk or cycle this wide, mostly flat trail along Kāpiti Coast’s dunelands, from Raumati to Paekākāriki.
20m climb
20m descent
21m highest point
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This coastal track winds through sand dunes between Paekākāriki and Raumati South. The sea, inland hills, and Kapiti Island will be a constant companion. On a clear day, you can see as far south as the South Island and north to Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki.
The well-maintained wide track is sign-posted. Keep an eye out for the birds commonly seen in the coastal habitat, including tūī, wax eye, fantail, goldfinch, yellowhammer, oystercatchers, and the more exotic white-faced heron.
The track is split into two sections that meet at Mackays Crossing. The southern section between Paekākāriki and Mackays Crossing is about 2km or 1-1.5 hours return. Take a picnic and stop at one of the large, grassy areas, or join one of many secondary pathways linking to the Inland Track to return a different way.
From Mackays Crossing to Raumati South, the northern section is 1.5km (1-hour return). In this section, you’ll see the progress of local sand dune restoration projects to encourage native plant regeneration.
From Paekākāriki train station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the Queen Elizabeth Park entrance on Wellington Road. You’ll find an information board, map, and directions opposite the Paekākāriki Holiday Park. Note there’s no public transport within Paekākāriki or between Paekākāriki and Raumati South.
If driving, parking is available at the Paekākāriki and Raumati South entrances to the park, Mackays Crossing, and Whareroa Beach. Access gates to Queen Elizabeth Park are locked at dusk. If you get locked in, ring the ranger on 027 244 5319.
Queen Elizabeth ParkWalk or cycle this wide, mostly flat trail along Kāpiti Coast’s dunelands, from Raumati to Paekākāriki.
Coast 35 connects Paekākāriki and Ōtaki through an off-road shared trail that runs parallel with the Kāpiti Expressway.
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.
Walk or ride the banks of Waikanae River from State Highway 1 to the sea.
Whareroa Farm Recreation ReserveA wide, gentle farm track connecting many Whareroa Farm tracks to the Akatarawa Forest and Mount Wainui.
A popular all-weather walking and mountain biking track overlooking Wainuiomata and Lower Hutt.
Follow the picturesque Hutt River all the way from Petone to Upper Hutt on this easy, well-maintained trail.
Travel along a flat winding trail to the historic Pencarrow Lighthouse and the shores of Lake Kohangatera.
Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveExperience the wildest part of Wellington’s rugged south coast, where you might encounter a colony of fur seals and catch views of the South Island.
Belmont Regional ParkThis trail is named after its gentle four degree gradient, making it an easy option for mountain bikers and walkers to access Old Coach Road.
Only a few minutes from Porirua, an easy, family-friendly trail weaves through the bush, offering glimpses of fairies amongst the trees.
Whareroa Farm Recreation ReserveTake a short, gentle wander through remnant kohekohe forest and soak up views over Queen Elizabeth Park and Kapiti Island.
An easy meandering pathway through a nationally-important estuary outlooking Pauatahanui Inlet.
A gentle stroll through native bush to Chrystalls Lagoon, with breathtaking views of the Tararua Range.
Listen to the waves lapping as you wander along the sandy shores of Waikanae Beach.