Wellington Regional Trails
Section of trail covered in rust coloured pine needles, surrounded by rows of tall pines and new plantings on either side.

A hidden uphill trail through native bush with views over Tawa and Porirua.

Length
2.2km
Uses
Walking/Running, Wheelchair/Pram
Type
Shared trail
Walking difficulty
Easy: Walking track
Profile

257m highest point

Dogs
Yes (on lead)

About the trail

Te Ngahere-o-Tawa is located off Kiwi Crescent in Tawa. The track winds its way through regenerating native forest and mature pines. This newly built shared path opened in 2021 to replace the older steeper route. It's a well-formed path with an accessible gradient (suitable for buggies) and gentle zigzag corners. 

This uphill trail is a rewarding climb to Spicer Forest, offering views across Tawa and Porirua. It can be completed as an out-and-back route, or as a longer adventure by connecting to other trails in Spicer Forest and Ngā Ara o Rangituhi. 

Getting there

Looking through branches of a conifer tree with rolling hills in the background on a blue sky day.

What to expect

Te Ngahere-o-Tawa (The Forest of Tawa) is a 35 minute forest trail climbing through native and pine forest on Tawa’s western hills. Set in a 36-hectare reserve, the trail passes through native forest remnants, pine forest and regenerating native trees. Once at the top, the ridgeline offers elevated views of Tawa through the pines.

Know before you go

  • Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food and water.
  • There are cafés and shops in nearby Tawa.
  • Dogs must be on leash.
  • Mountain bikes are not allowed.

For more tips and advice before heading out on Wellington’s trails check out our before you go section.

Looking for more?

At start of items
Four people ride bicycles on a path in Queen Elizabeth Regional Park in the Paraparaumu, New Zealand surrounded by nature.

Coast 35

Coast35 is a new trail connecting Paekākāriki and Ōtaki. The wide, off-road sealed pathway is suitable for walking, running, cycling, and horse riding.

A view of Wellington Harbour/ Port Nicholson at golden hour with Matiu/Somes Island in the centre of the image.

Mātiu/Somes Island

Matiu / Somes Island is a peaceful nature reserve on an island in Wellington Harbour. Catch the ferry from Wellington and enjoy easy walking tracks.

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

Northern Walkway

Northern Walkway is a half-day walk through Wellington's outer green belt. Discover abandoned railway tunnels, great views and scenic reserves.

The bright blue water and rugged coastline at Red Rocks on Wellington's south coast.

Red Rocks Coastal Walk

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveRed Rocks Coastal Walk is a flat easy walk around Wellington's rugged south coast. Look out for fur seals and enjoy views of the South Island.

Two people take a selfie together at the Mount Victoria Lookout overlooking Wellington.

Southern Walkway

Southern Walkway is a 4 to 6-hour walk on Wellington's Town Belt between the city and Island Bay. Walk to Mount Victoria past Lord of the Rings film locations.

A section of the Bothamley Park Walkway. A gravel path surrounded by native New Zealand bush.

Bothamley Park Walkway

Bothamley Park Walkway follows an old farm track along Kenepuru Stream. Walk or ride the trail through large exotic trees and regenerating bush.

Te Ara Piko wraps around the Pāuatahanui Inlet and connects up with Pāuatahinui Wildlife Reserve and Camborne Walkway.

Te Ara Piko

Te Ara Piko is a family-friendly walk or bike ride over the Pāuatahanui estuary. The trail crosses the inlet on boardwalks and bridges with spots to bird watch.

The Juvenile Delinquent trail at Centennial Reserve in Miramar.

Juvenile Delinquent

Centennial ReserveJuvie is a great trail to start out on. Warm up before another track or practice your skills as a beginner mountain biker.

A skate park with some graffiti tags on the pavement.

Kids Track

Centennial ReserveKids Track is a fun mountain bike track in Centennial Reserve for kids or beginners to test their skills with rollers and small structures.

The Nevay Link track at Centennial Reserve in Miramar.

Nevay Link

Centennial ReserveNevay Link is a short access track for mountain bikers into Centennial Reserve from Nevay Road to the Juvenile Delinquent trail.