Red Rocks Coastal Walk

For a longer journey, head up the ridgelines of Te Kopahou Reserve and link onto Red Rocks Track to Hawkins Hill.

The wild and barren shoreline makes for an exhilarating walk. During the winter months, you can see fur seals basking on the rocks near Sinclair Head. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash and kept at least 20m away from seals and other native wildlife.

Getting there

• The trail starts from the Te Kopahou Visitor Centre car park, located at the end of Ōwhiro Bay Parade and ends at the Devil’s Gate at Sinclair Head.
• If you’re taking public transport, the 29 Metlink bus line can get you near Ōwhiro Bay Parade (dropping you on Happy Valley Road). It’s around a 15-minute walk along Ōwhiro Bay Parade to the Te Kopahou Visitor Centre and the start of the trail.

Know before you go

• Get ready using Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list.
• For more in-depth weather forecasts, check out the MetService website.
• Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food and water.
• Toilets and changing facilities are available at the Te Kopahou Visitor Centre.
• The trail is an unsealed road and is uneven in places. It is unsuitable for 2WD vehicles.
• If biking or walking, beware of approaching 4WD vehicles. The gate is closed on Sundays, and the route is only open for walkers and mountain bikers.
• Dogs must be kept on a leash and at least 20m away from seals and other native wildlife.
• During wildfire season, Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) actively monitors fire danger in regional parks. This trail may have restrictions or closures. Check the latest fire risk status on the GWRC website before heading out on the trails.