Inland Track

About the trail

The Inland Track winds along the ridge in the middle of Queen Elizabeth Park, and is a popular track for locals. This section of the park has more stable sandhills with thriving native plants like native mahoe, flaxes, and ferns. 

The trail is relatively easy, with some moderate sections. The hills are more frequent and challenging than those on the Coastal Track or Te Ara o Whareroa. It is ideal for a family afternoon out, or a quick lunchtime or evening walk/run. The track is easy to get to, is well-signposted and has a wide, well-maintained dirt surface.

Enjoy views of the Tasman Sea and forested foothills. On a clear day, the Marlborough Sounds in the South Island will be visible in the distance. 

The southern section has plenty of secondary pathways that link back up to the Coastal Track. There's also the option to do a side trip along Whareroa Stream Loop – just north of Whareroa Road, past the Aero Club. 

Getting there 

• The Inland Track is in Queen Elizabeth Park, off Wellington Road in Paekākāriki.
• The trail starts just below the top of the hill near the Memorial Lookout, off the circular sealed road through the Park. You can follow this route all the way to Raumati South or loop back via the Coastal Track.
• If you’re driving, plenty of car parking is available near the Wellington Road entrance of Queen Elizabeth Park, or halfway at the Mackays Crossing entrance.
• Public transport is available from Wellington to Paekākāriki. Timetables are available from Metlink. Queen Elizabeth Park is a 20-minute walk from Paekākāriki Railway Station.

Know before you go 

• Get ready using Plan My Walk by the NZ Mountain Safety Council for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list.
• Toilets are available by the car park at the Paekākāriki end, near Whareroa Beach, Mackays Crossing, and at the Raumati South entrance to the park.
• Take warm waterproof clothing and durable footwear, sun protection and water. Don't forget your togs for a swim.
• This is a multi-use track, so expect to encounter cyclists. People on bikes must give way to walkers and other track users.
• Be considerate of the regenerating bush and wetlands. Avoid disturbing the fragile environment around you.