Makara Walkway

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Makara Walkway is a photographer’s dream, but there are three specific highlights that make this trail a standout:

* The Cook Strait Vistas: On a clear day, the views from the clifftops are peerless. You can look across the churning waters of the Cook Strait to see the jagged peaks of the South Island’s Kaikōura Ranges. Closer to home, you’ll have a bird's-eye view of Mana Island and Kāpiti Island sitting proudly in the blue. * Fort Opau: Perched on the ridge, you’ll find the remnants of World War II gun emplacements. These concrete bunkers are a poignant reminder of New Zealand’s coastal defence history. Exploring the ruins of Fort Opau adds a layer of historical intrigue to the hike, and it’s a fantastic spot for kids to explore (with a bit of supervision, of course). * The Wind Turbines: It’s one thing to see the West Wind turbines from a distance, but standing beneath them is another experience entirely. The sheer scale of these structures is immense, and their presence on the rugged skyline creates a striking contrast between modern renewable energy and the ancient landscape.

Getting There

Getting to the trailhead is a scenic journey in itself. From Wellington CBD, follow the signs toward Karori and then continue onto Makara Road. The drive takes about 30 minutes, winding through lush valleys and over the hills.

Once you arrive at the end of the road, you’ll find a large car park directly at Makara Beach. While it’s a decent size, this spot is a local favourite, so if you’re planning a trip on a sunny Saturday or Sunday, try to arrive by mid-morning to secure a park. There are basic public toilet facilities right next to the car park, which is handy as there are no other amenities once you start the climb.

Wildlife Spotting

The Makara Walkway is a fantastic place for birdwatchers. Because the area is part of a wider conservation effort, you’re likely to see a variety of native species.

Keep an eye on the rocky outcrops along the shore for the Kāruhiruhi (Pied Shag) and the Māpunga (Black Shag), often seen drying their wings after a dive. The Tōrea pango (Variable Oystercatcher) is a constant companion along the beach, identifiable by its bright orange beak and piping call.

Up on the ridge, you might spot the Pīhoihoi (New Zealand Pipit) darting among the grass. If you’re lucky, you might even see a Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) swooping through the more sheltered gullies. While the North Island Brown Kiwi is known to inhabit the wider area, they are nocturnal and very rare to see, but just knowing they are out there in the scrub adds to the magic of the place. On very special days, you might even spot a Kororā (Little Penguin) nesting or resting near the shoreline.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Makara Walkway is open year-round, but each season brings a different flavour to the hike:

* Summer & Autumn: These are the most popular times. The weather is generally more stable, and the sunsets over the Tasman Sea are world-class. * Winter & Spring: The coast is at its most dramatic during the colder months. The "wild west" really earns its name when the swells are big and the clouds are moody.

Important Seasonal Note: Large parts of the track cross private farmland and are closed for lambing season from August 1st to September 30th. During this time, you can usually still walk along the beach to the gun emplacements, but the full loop is off-limits.

Practical Tips: * The Wind: This is Wellington, after all! The hilltops are incredibly exposed to the northerly gales. Check the forecast and if it's "windy" in the city, it will be "howling" at Makara. * Gear: Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip—the initial climb can be slippery when wet, and the rock hopping at the end requires stable footing. * Sun and Shelter: There is almost no shade on this trail. Even on a cloudy day, the coastal UV is strong, so pack plenty of sunscreen and a hat. * No Dogs: Because the track crosses active farmland, dogs are strictly not permitted. * Kids: The walk is definitely kid-friendly for older children who enjoy a challenge, but the steep climb and the 3-hour duration mean it’s not suitable for strollers or very young toddlers.

Local & Regional Context

Makara holds a special place in the cultural and geological history of Wellington. To Māori, the area was a significant source of mahinga kai (food gathering), with the rich coastal waters providing a bounty of seafood. The name "Makara" itself is steeped in local history, often associated with the Ngāti Tama and Ngāti Mutunga iwi who lived in the area.

Geologically, the landscape is a testament to the power of the earth. The uplifted marine terraces you walk along were shaped by tectonic activity over thousands of years. Today, the area is a model for land use, balancing traditional farming with modern renewable energy and conservation. The West Wind farm, which you’ll see up close, generates enough electricity to power nearly every home in Wellington, making this rugged coast a vital part of the city’s modern infrastructure.

After the Walk

After three hours of sea air and hill climbing, you’ll likely be ready for a treat. Fortunately, you don’t have to go far. The Makara Beach Cafe (WhareKai) is located just 200 metres from the car park.

It’s exactly what a coastal cafe should be: cozy, welcoming, and unpretentious. They are famous for their fresh fish and chips—perfect for eating on the beach if the weather is nice—and their coffee is excellent. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, their ice creams are the perfect reward for tackling those hill climbs. It’s the ideal spot to sit back, look out at the ocean, and reflect on a morning well spent on one of Wellington’s most iconic trails.