Coast 35
Coast 35 connects Paekākāriki and Ōtaki through an off-road shared trail that runs parallel with the Kāpiti Expressway.
30m highest point
Roger Smith
The Waikanae River Trail and estuary is a nationally significant area. Native birds use it as they travel between the Tararua Range and Kapiti Island. Part of the national Te Araroa Trail, it winds along the Waikanae River beside established willows, young native planting, and lagoons. It offers wide gravel paths suitable for wheelchairs, buggies, and families.
The trail can be walked or cycled as a full loop, crossing at the old SH1 bridge at Otaihanga Domain. Shorter loops can be planned, crossing at the Kāpiti Expressway or the Te Arawai footbridge. Horse riding is also welcome along the trail, following the blue track markers to cross the river in shallow areas.
There are plenty of safe swimming areas, including a popular swimming hole opposite the side track to Otaraua Park. You can also take the track down to the sea and swim there.
Begin this walk at the Otaihanga Domain on Makora Road. Otaihanga is approximately one hour’s drive north of Wellington. Here there are toilets, car parking, and picnic areas. You can begin your walk either by heading east (upstream) along the south bank or cross the bridge and head along the north bank. If you want to walk to the lagoons, go over the suspension bridge and head West to the sea.
Horse riders can begin the trail on the northern bank. Greenaway Road has a car park with plenty of space for horse floats, and there are mounting blocks at the entrance to the trail. There is also access for horses off the old State Highway 1, beside the river, with a stile and mounting blocks.
Trains from Wellington depart for Waikanae regularly, and there are bus stops on Te Moana Road, Barrett Drive, and Manly Street.
Coast 35 connects Paekākāriki and Ōtaki through an off-road shared trail that runs parallel with the Kāpiti Expressway.
Follow the banks of the Ōtaki River on this popular walking and mountain biking trail, offering views of the coastline, river, and the Tararua Range.
Whareroa Farm Recreation ReserveA wide, gentle farm track connecting many Whareroa Farm tracks to the Akatarawa Forest and Mount Wainui.
Follow the picturesque Hutt River all the way from Petone to Upper Hutt on this easy, well-maintained trail.
Queen Elizabeth ParkWalk or cycle this wide, mostly flat trail along Kāpiti Coast’s dunelands, from Raumati to Paekākāriki.
A gentle stroll through native bush to Chrystalls Lagoon, with breathtaking views of the Tararua Range.
Listen to the waves lapping as you wander along the sandy shores of Waikanae Beach.
Queen Elizabeth ParkThis seaside trail winds through sand dunes offering coastal views, bird watching and countless places to rest, play, picnic or swim.
Whareroa Farm Recreation ReserveA steep climb to the top of Whareroa Farm with rewarding views over the Kāpiti Coast.
Remutaka Cycle TrailTake a gentle ride along Te Awa Kairangi with swimming and picnic stops on the way.
A popular all-weather walking and mountain biking track overlooking Wainuiomata and Lower Hutt.
Travel along a flat winding trail to the historic Pencarrow Lighthouse and the shores of Lake Kohangatera.
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.
Belmont Regional ParkThis trail is named after its gentle four degree gradient, making it an easy option for mountain bikers and walkers to access Old Coach Road.
Only a few minutes from Porirua, an easy, family-friendly trail weaves through the bush, offering glimpses of fairies amongst the trees.