Wellington Regional Trails
Looking through trees and the view of the ocean and farmland from Forest Loop Walk in Kāpiti Coast.

Walking time

45 min

Length

1.1km

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Profile

60m climb

-60m descent

63m highest point

Dogs

No
A green and yellow signpost showing which directions trails are in, on the Forest Loop Walk, Whareroa Farm.

About the trail

Take in highlights of the lower Whareroa Farm, an ancient kohekohe forest and views over Queen Elizabeth Park and the coastline beyond.

Starting from the Whareroa Farm car park, the track winds up to the lookout. You’ll then head down through the native forest to a farm access road. This will take you past the working farm with sheep grazing, and an orchard. US Marines lived and trained in this area during WWII.

From May to June you’ll find the kohekohe trees bloom delicate sprays of white orchid-like flowers that attract tūī and . There are also wētā hotels and spider houses to explore.

Getting there

The trail starts at the main entrance to Whareroa Farm, Paekākāriki, about 35 minutes north of Wellington. You can also catch the train to Paekākāriki Station.

Begin your ride or walk a short distance south of Queen Elizabeth Park. Follow the signs to the coastal lookout, which links into the Forest Loop Track.

Know before you go

  • Get ready using Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews, and a packing list.
  • Take your own snacks or picnic — there are many lovely places to stop on the way.
  • There are toilets at the painted caravan, approximately halfway through the walk.
  • The first half of this trail is walking only, but the return is a farm track shared with walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders.
  • No dogs allowed.