Southern Walkway

About the trail

The Southern Walkway starts at Roseneath Park and Lookout near central Wellington. It follows the Town Belt south through to Island Bay on the rugged South Coast.

Some highlights along the way include:

• views down onto Oriental Bay from Roseneath
• spectacular panoramic views from the summit of Mount Victoria lookout
• famous film locations from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ franchise in the town belt
• the descent through Sinclair Park to The Esplanade
• the coastline of Taputeranga Marine Reserve in Island Bay.

You can make the return trip or start from the opposite direction. There are some short deviations to shops or cafés along the way if you want to complete the trail in stages.

The northern section of this trail is for walkers only, but there are many mountain biking routes on Mount Victoria. The southern section is open to both walkers and bikers.

Getting there

• The trail can be accessed from multiple points along the route.
• The start of the trail is signposted near the intersection of Oriental Parade and Carlton Gore Road. You can walk up the hill to the beginning of the town belt from there.
• Alternatively, you can begin at Roseneath Lookout by taking the 14 Metlink bus route and getting out near 14 The Crescent. 
• If you want to begin your journey coming from the south, then the 1 Metlink bus route will take you to Shorland Park. The bus stops right at the beginning of the trail.

Know before you go

• Plan your route before you leave, and let someone know where you’re going.
• Get ready using Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list. For weather forecasts, check the MetService website.
• Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food and water.
• There are no toilets available along this trail, although you will pass by a number of suburbs with facilities nearby.
• Seating and picnic spots are available on the trail.
• Dogs must be on a leash at all times.