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

Large machinery operating

Large machinery will be working on the Kotumu Fan from 4 to 12 June (as weather permits). A stop/go system will be in place.

Last updated: 3 June 2026

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?

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

Hutt River Trail section

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