Wellington Regional Trails
2 bikers cycling along the track next to the road, on the Western lake Road Section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

A gentle countryside ride along the shores of Lake Wairarapa, ending at the wild South Coast.

Walking time
Varies
Length
42.5km
Uses
Walking/Running, Mountain Biking
Type
Shared trail
Walking difficulty
Easy: Walking track
Mountain Bike Grade
Intermediate: Grade 3
Profile

96m highest point

Dogs
Yes
2 bikers cycling along the track next to the road, on the Western lake Road Section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.
2 bikers cycling along the track next to the road, on the Western lake Road Section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.
2 bikers cycling along the track next to the road, on the Western lake Road Section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

About the ride

The third section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail takes you 42.5km through the Wairarapa countryside between Featherson and Ocean Beach, a small settlement perched on the wild South Coast. The trail surface is a mix of sealed country roads and off-road single tracks.

From Cross Creek, take the out-and-back route (10km each way) north-east into Featherston. The charming town is a great overnight stopover for those riding the Remutaka Cycle Trail and an ideal base to sample local wines, and experience the region’s country charm.

To continue the trail, return south-west on Western Lake road past Cross Creek and along the shores of Lake Wairarapa, passing sheep and cattle farms. There are beautiful picnic spots at All Saints Church and Wairarapa Lake Shore Scenic Reserve.

You’ll pass Lake Ōnoke, part of the Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park, where indigenous and migratory waterbirds flock. The final stop is on the South Coast at Ocean Beach where you’ll find rows of classic Kiwi baches. This is the start of section four of the cycle trail.

Bikers walking towards The Old Saints Church, Wairongomai, on the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

Plan your ride

From bike hire and packing tips to accommodation and transportation, here’s everything you need to plan your adventure on the Western Lake Road section.

Plan your ride
Two people riding bicycles side by side on a farm road.

How was your ride?

Let us know by completing the Remutaka Cycle Trail Survey and go into the monthly prize draw to win cycle books from the Kennett Brothers. Your feedback helps us build a better trail.

Looking for more?

At start of items
An adult and child cycle along the Hutt River Trail.

Hutt River Trail section

Remutaka Cycle Trail Great RideThe Hutt River Trail section of the Remutaka Cycle trail is an easy, flat ride along the Hutt River, with swimming and picnic stops along the way.

Two bikers going through a dark tunnel on the Rail Trail Section on the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

Remutaka Rail Trail section

Remutaka Cycle Trail Great RideThe Remutaka Rail Trail section follows a historic railway through native bush. Ride through a 500-metre tunnel and across a swing bridge.

Two cyclists on the beach in Palliser Bay, at the entrance to the Wild Coast Section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

Wild Coast Track section

Remutaka Cycle Trail Great RideThis breathtaking section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail takes you on a challenging ride along remote and rugged coastline.

Three people standing on top of Birchville Dam. Green trees and bushes surround them.

Cannon Point Walkway

Cannon Point Walkway is an easy walk to Birchville Dam on a well-formed track in the Akatarawa Forest.

The trail around Pencarrow Lakes and Eastbourne Lighthouse. Green hills meet with the blue ocean and lakes, and the white lighthouse is in the distance.

Lighthouse Track

East Harbour Regional ParkThe Lighthouse Track in Eastbourne leads you uphill to one of Wellington’s most iconic landmarks, Pencarrow Lighthouse.

Three people and a dog on leash, walking on a gravel path, across a small bridge on the Greytown to Woodside Trail.

Greytown to Woodside Trail

Greytown to Woodside is an accessible walking and biking trail between two Wairarapa towns. The trail weaves through oak trees with views of the Tararua's.

A group of mountain bikers ride side-by-side along a gravel path with puddles. They are surrounded by lush green bush.

Karapoti Challenge Course

Ride the scenic 20km Karapoti Challenge Course through Akatarawa Forest. Get driving directions, parking info, and safety tips before you go.

The view from the ridgeline on the Mount Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit in the Tararua Range.

Holdsworth roadend to Powell Hut/Mount Holdsworth

Holdsworth roadend to Powell Hut is a popular hike in the Tararua Range. Explore the mountains and take in panoramic views of the Wairarapa and Wellington.

The view of mountain ranges from a wooden deck.

Mount Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit

Mount Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit is a popular multi-day hike in the Tararua Range. Explore the mountains and take in panoramic views of the Wellington region.

The rocky coastline, blue water, and mountains are at Red Rocks Coastal Walkway.

Red Rocks Track on Wellington's south coast

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveWellington's Red Rocks Track follows the ridgeline on the south coast. Enjoy views of the Cook Strait before walking down to the coastline to see fur seals and marine life.