Southern Walkway - WellingtonNZ

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)

Unable to render element

About the trail

The Southern Walkway starts at Roseneath Park and lookout near central Wellington 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.

Getting there
Know before you go

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.

Matiu / Somes Island

Ramble around this stunning nature reserve that sits right in the middle of Wellington Harbour.

The view overlooking Wellington and the harbour from the summit of Mount Kaukau on the Skyline Walkway.

Northern Walkway

Take a journey through Wellington’s outer green belt and discover abandoned railway tunnels and expansive views.

Red Rocks Coastal Walk

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveExperience the wildest part of Wellington’s rugged south coast, where you might encounter a colony of fur seals and catch views of the South Island.

Eastern Walkway

Enjoy sweeping views over the south coast of Miramar Peninsula while walking through native bush on the Eastern Walkway. Loop back with an easy stroll along the coastline from Breaker Bay.

Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush

There’s a wide variety of walks available at Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush, ranging from gentle 10-minute strolls to 2.5-hour hikes. Original forests and native botanic gardens attract plenty of native birds.