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

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

Walking time
Varies
Length
18.6km
Uses
Walking/Running, Mountain Biking
Type
Shared trail
Walking difficulty
Intermediate: Easier tramping track
Mountain Bike Grade
Advanced: Grade 4
Profile

33m highest point

Dogs
No

About the ride

This section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail showcases the rugged beauty of Wellington’s wild south coast. It is a challenging, backcountry Grade 4 (advanced) ride and is often considered the most scenic part of the trail.

Expect dramatic coastal views, with sheer cliffs dropping into the sea and the sparkling waters of Palliser Bay. Wildlife is abundant—you may spot large pods of dolphins, seals in winter, and even wild horses. On clear days, views stretch all the way to the snow-capped Kaikōura Ranges in the South Island.

Due to its remote and demanding nature, careful preparation is essential. Check weather forecasts and tide timetables before you go. Make sure you read the know before you go section and monitor for weather-related closures on the  Remutaka Cycle Trail Facebook page .

There is an active rock slip at Harris Falls, about 1.5 km west of Corner Creek. This can be bypassed via a short (approximately 20-minute) walk along the beach, but avoid this area within one hour either side of high tide.

The route also includes several unbridged river crossings, which can rise quickly after rain. At the Kotumu Fan, you should expect to walk your bike for around one kilometre across a series of large rock slips, where the track is rough and can shift in extreme weather. Some sections may also have gritty sand, requiring additional bike pushing.

Despite these challenges, many riders who enjoy adventure rate this section as their favourite part of the trail.

Two cyclists ride along a rocky path by Palliser Bay on the Wild Coast Trail Section in the Remutaka Cycle Trail under a sunny blue sky.

The trail can be ridden in either direction. It runs along the coast through Ōrongorongo Station, one of the longest-running farms in New Zealand. There are no significant hills, but the terrain is uneven and often rocky, with streams to cross. Due to the coastal environment and changeable weather, sand drifts are common. At the southernmost point, Turakirae Head, you’ll see raised beaches formed by tectonic uplifts over the past 7,000 years.

If you’re coming from the Ocean Beach (Wairarapa) side, from Turakirae Head, you’ll turn north to the mouth of the Ōrongorongo River, where the Remutaka Cycle Trail officially ends, and the Wainuiomata Coast Road takes you back to Petone.

And if you’re not quite ready for the adventure to end, celebrate completing your ride with a night at Parangarehu.

Plan your ride

From bike hire and packing tips to accommodation and transportation, here’s everything you need to plan your adventure on the Wild Coast Trail section.

Plan your ride
Two cyclists riding on a gravel path next to a deep blue ocean.

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?

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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.

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

Western Lake Road section

Remutaka Cycle Trail Great RidePart of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, the Western Lake Road section rides along the shores of Lake Wairarapa on country roads and off-road single tracks.

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.

Three hikers and a dog walking in desnse ferns surrounded by mossy trees and native New Zealand bush.

Holdsworth to Kaitoke Track

A classic three day hike through the Tararua Range, following the Waiohine and Tauwharenīkau rivers for 34 kilometres.

Two riders on motorbikes passing through a stream on the Karapoti Challenge course

Karapoti Classic Course

Home to the Karapoti Classic, a gruelling 50km adventure trail in the Akatarawa Forest. For advanced mountain bikers only.

A vast landscape with tall dry grass in the foreground, rolling hills, houses along the coastline and a mountain range across the water.

Tip Track

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveTip Track in Te Kopahou Reserve is a short steep route with stunning views of Wellington and the South Island. The trail starts next to the Southern Landfill.

The view over the Wellington Harbour and city from Mount Kaukau/ Tarikākā on the Skyline Walkway.

Skyline Walkway

Skyline Walkway trails from Mākara Saddle to the summit of Mount Kaukau ending in Johnsonville with views of the Wellington City and Harbour.

The Borderline trail in Belmont Regional Park, a gravel and grass trail down grassy hills.

Borderline

Belmont Regional ParkBorderline is a fast downhill walking and mountain bike track with steep drops, jumps, and a few surprises to keep you alert.

The Bees 2 Bridge Track in Tunnel Gully, Upper Hutt. The trail is a mixture of clay and fir, cutting through a pine forest.

Bees 2 Bridge

Tunnel GullyBees 2 Bridge is an advanced downhill mountain bike track with switchbacks and berms to slow your speed.