Wellington-hiking-areas

Best Hiking Areas in Wellington

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding hills and mountains offer numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Here are some of the best hiking areas in Wellington:

1. Mount Victoria

  • Distance: Approximately 7 km return
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: Panoramic views of the city and harbor, native bush, and historic sites like the Pukeahu Memorial Park.

Located just above the city center, Mount Victoria offers a variety of trails for hikers. The most popular one is the 7 km return trail that takes you through native bush, past historic sites, and rewards you with stunning views of the city and harbor.

2. The Makara

  • Distance: Approximately 10 km loop
  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
  • Features: Lush coastal scenery, beaches, and a historic lighthouse.

Located on the west coast of Wellington, The Makara offers a longer hike with stunning coastal views. The trail takes you along the coastline, past several beaches, and ends at the historic Makara Lighthouse. The return journey offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding hills.

3. The Rimutaka Forest Park

  • Distance: Various trails ranging from 2-15 km
  • Difficulty: Easy to challenging
  • Features: Native bush, waterfalls, and mountainous terrain.

Located just north of Wellington, the Rimutaka Forest Park offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The park features stunning native bush, several waterfalls, and rugged mountainous terrain. The most popular trail is the 15 km return trail that takes you through the forest and ends at the summit of Mount Kaukau.

4. The Brooklyn Wind Farm Walk

  • Distance: Approximately 5 km return
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Features: Scenic views, wind turbines, and a historic quarry site.

Located on the hills above Wellington’s northern suburb of Brooklyn, this walk offers easy strolling with scenic views. The trail takes you past several wind turbines and ends at a historic quarry site.

5. The Pukahaatai Reserve

  • Distance: Approximately 4 km loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Features: Native bush, water features, and a historic Maori site.

Located in the Hutt Valley, just south of Wellington’s city center, this reserve offers easy strolling through native bush. The trail takes you past several water features, including a small waterfall, and ends at a historic Maori site.

These are just some of the best hiking areas in Wellington. Whether you’re looking for challenging climbs or easy strolls, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.