Southern Walkway
Walking time
4 - 5 hr
Length
10.7km
Uses
Walking/Running
Type
Double track
Walking difficulty
Easy: Walking track
Profile
546m climb
-538m descent
181m highest point
Dogs
Yes (on lead)
About the trail
The Southern Walkway starts at Roseneath Park and lookout near Wellington’s CBD and 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, and the coastline of Taputeranga Marine Reserve in Island Bay. Make the return trip or start from the opposite direction.
There are some short deviations to shops or cafes 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.
Jay French
The trail can be accessed from multiple points along the route. If you want to begin at Roseneath Lookout, take the 14 Metlink bus route and get out near 14 The Crescent. Alternatively, 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.
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.