Wellington: New Zealand’s capital is so much more than just a government and business hub. Perched on the hills surrounding Wellington Harbour, this bustling city, known for its culture, fine food, art, music, and museums, also boasts a wide array of outdoor activities for locals and traveler alike. Any traveler wanting to transit between Te Ika a Maui (the North Island) and Te Wai Pounamu (the South Island), must pass through Wellington. Traveling is an often expensive and exhausting experience, and it can be hard to balance the desire to explore a new place and sticking to a limited budget. This article will highlight a few of the top free outdoor activities for travelers and newly arrived Wellingtonians. All these destinations are accessible by public transport and allow visitors to experience some of Wellington’s local gems.

The Escarpment Track:

Getting there:

From the downtown Wellington Station, catch the Kapiti Train Line (See Metlink — Public Transport for timetable and fares) to Pukerua Bay Station. This enjoyable train ride takes 40 minutes and offers views of the Wellington Harbour and Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour.

At the end of the Escarpment Track, catch the Kapiti Line back to Wellington from Paekākāriki Station. Note, this walk and transportation can be done in reverse.

Difficulty:

Moderate to hard.

Time:

10 km. Three to four hours walking plus travel. Allow extra time to rest and enjoy the views.

Description:

The Escarpment Track traverses the steep hillside between Pukerua Bay and Paekākāriki. It offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, Kapiti Island, and even the South Island’s Marlborough Sounds! Starting at Pukerua Bay Station (south end), the trail traverses the hills rising sharply out of the sea. Along the trail are many interpretive signs and benches to rest and enjoy the stunning views. This walk is family friendly, although, walkers beware! You will climb over 1,200 steps, cross two swing bridges, and navigate steep, narrow pathways. The 10 km trail climbs from sea level to the highest viewpoint at 220 m before winding its way back down to the coast.

This track is part of the Te Araroa (the long path) that runs 3,000 km down the length of New Zealand.

Things of note:

• There are no toilets along the trail. Public toilets are located in Pukerua Bay and Paekākāriki.
• This part of the coastline is exposed to high winds, sun, and rain. Pack appropriate clothing for rapidly changing weather conditions. Check Metservice: Wellington Weather before departing.
• There are no water fountains along the trail.
• No dogs or bicycles allowed on the trail due to livestock on adjacent farmland.
• Stay on the well marked track. Private property on either side. DO NOT enter the rail corridor or you risk getting a $20,000 fine.
• Cell service is available the whole way.

 

Paekākā Wellington Botanic Gardens:

Getting there:

• Walking – a popular route is from The Terrace through Bolton Street Cemetery, through the Lady Norwood Rose Garden to the Main Garden. 10 – 20 minutes.
• Bus – catch the # 2 Karori bus at Lambton Quay and get off at the Centennial and Founders’ entrances on Glenmore Street. (Regular schedule, 7 days a week. 1 fare zone). See Metlink — Public Transport for timetable and fares.
• Wellington Cable Car – from Cable Car Lane, off Lambton Quay. The Cable Car departs every 10 minutes to the top of the Botanic Garden. Note, this is more expensive than the bus.

Difficulty:

Easy (many areas are wheelchair accessible).

Time:

An hour to a day.

Description:

For those looking for a more mellow outdoor adventure, this is a must see. Paekākā Wellington Botanic Gardens are spread over 25 hectares adjacent to the downtown core. With 150 years of history, they have been recognized as a Garden of National Significance by the Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture. From the Lady Norwood rose gardens to native bush walks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. At the top of the Cable Car, take in the iconic Wellington views and, after dark, glow worms are visible along the lower stream trails. Children can spend hours at the playground while parents learn about the surrounding flora and fauna. There are many lawns perfect for picnics or games and the trails are popular with local runners. Every January for three weeks, the Garden Magic festival is hosted here with live bands every night and spectacular light shows. Check out Wellington Botanic Gardens for all the details on upcoming events for all ages!

Things of note:

• Open dawn to dusk year-round. Hours for information centers, café etc. varies- see Wellington Botanic Garden.
• Public toilets and drinking fountains available around the Gardens.
• No biking in the Gardens.
• Dogs are allowed on leash.
• Cell service is available throughout the Gardens.

 

Wellington South Coast and the Taputeranga Marine Reserve

Getting there:

• Walking – for those ambitious folks with extra time on their hands, the Southern Walkway runs from Oriental Parade (downtown) to Island Bay on the South Coast. The 10.6 km trail takes 4 – 5 hours each way and offers views of the city, harbour, and bush.
• Bus – various busses run regularly, seven days a week from downtown to different parts of the South Coast. #1- Island Bay. #2 Seatoun via Lyall Bay. #3 Lyall Bay. #23 Houghton Bay. See Metlink — Public Transport for timetable and fares.

Difficulty:

Easy to moderate (many areas wheelchair accessible).

Time:

An hour to a day.

Description:

The South Coast of Wellington is known for its rugged coastline, beautiful beaches, and outdoor activities to match anyone’s level of ability. The large sandy beach at Lyall Bay boasts some of Wellington’s most spectacular surfing. Te Raekaihau Point, the western headland of Lyall Bay, has a short loop walk up to a viewpoint overlooking Lyall, Princess, and Houghton Bays. A short waterfront walk further west takes you to Island Bay. Shorland Park provides a great picnic stop and a fantastic playground for all ages. If visiting on a Sunday, check out the Island Bay Marine Discovery Center, housing the largest collection of marine life in New Zealand (entry by donation). For those willing to brave the chilly waters, the rocky headland nearest Taputeranga Island is ideal for snorkeling and free diving. Over 180 fish species thrive here in the protected Taputeranga Marine Reserve. Snorkelers can explore underwater sea caves, arches, and kelp forests over 20 m tall! Follow the Island Bay Snorkel Trail for interpretive floating signs as you swim around the shoreline. Finish the day watching the sun sink over the Sinclair Headlands.

Things of note:

• Public toilets and drinking fountains available in Lyall, Houghton, and Island Bays.
• The coastal walkway is suitable for cyclists. Give way to pedestrians.
• Lyall Bay has a marked off leash dog area. Dogs are allowed on leash everywhere else.
• Cell service is available all along the coastline.
• This part of the coastline is exposed to high winds, sun, and rain. Pack appropriate clothing for rapidly changing weather conditions. Check Metservice: Wellington Weather before departing.

 

Wellington Waterfront and Mount Victoria

Getting there:

• Walking – walk from downtown along the waterfront to Oriental Parade (10 – 25 minutes). Mount Victoria is accessible by road or trail from all sides. The shortest route from the waterfront is through Courtenay Place and up Majoribanks Street to the summit and back via Oriental Parade. Allow 1.5 hours to walk this full 4.6 km loop.
• Bus – to access Oriental Parade, from downtown catch the #14 or #24 bus. Both run regularly, seven days a week. To avoid walking up mount Victoria, catch the #20 from Courtney Place. See Metlink — Public Transport for timetable and fares.

Difficulty:

Easy (most areas wheelchair accessible).

Time:

An hour to a day.

Description:

Only have a short amount of time in Wellington? Do not miss the Wellington waterfront and Mount Victoria. Take a stroll from the railway station or any downtown accommodation along the waterfront and see why locals say, “you can’t beat Wellington on a good day!” Stop and enjoy one of the many sculptures scattered around harbour. If the weather is not so favourable, explore the Wellington Museum  which showcases local Maori and European settler history, all the way through to modern art and culture (free entry, open daily 10am to 5pm). Just around the corner is Te Papa, Aotearoa’s (New Zealand’s) national Museum. Open daily, 10am to 6pm, it is easy to lose yourself in their wide array of exhibits.

From here, continue through Courtney Place (the entertainment district) and climb the short but steep hill until you are immersed in the bush of Mount Victoria. These trails are popular for mountain bikers and runners but take the time to stop and see a few of the film locations of the Hobbit. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views over the harbour, Evens Bay, and the surrounding hills.

On a sunny afternoon, Oriental Parade is the place to be. This inner-city beach is popular with locals and tourists alike. From Mount Victoria, it is a short walk down to the beach where you will be rewarded with a refreshing swim and sunbathe.

Things of note:

• Public toilets and drinking fountains available throughout these areas.
• The waterfront and Mount Victoria are suitable for cyclists. Give way to pedestrians.

Credit Wellington NZ

Wellington is full of enjoyable, outdoor adventures to match any traveler’s needs and budget. Planning travel can be time consuming, tiring, and expensive. This guide is a great starting point to kickstart your planning process and includes all the important information to get you out the door exploring this beautiful city. This brief list of free activities is just the tip of the iceberg! Kiwis are renowned for their laid back, friendly attitude. So, if you have explored all these great spots or just looking for something slightly different, ask a local Wellingtonian for recommendations and they will be more than happy to share their personal hidden gems!

All photos and videos taken by Jasper Edge unless otherwise credited.