Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The obvious crown jewel is the summit itself. Reaching the top of Mount Victoria, known in Te Reo Māori as Tangi Te Keo or Matairangi, provides an unparalleled 360-degree panorama. On a clear day, you can see the interisland ferries churning through the harbour, the rugged peaks of the Orongorongo Range to the east, and the planes navigating the tricky approach into Wellington Airport at Lyall Bay.

• The Byrd Memorial: A striking monument dedicated to Rear Admiral Richard Byrd, the American polar explorer who used New Zealand as a base for his Antarctic expeditions. Its unique shape and tiles are a favourite for photographers.
• The Historic Bronze Cannon: This relic was fired every day at noon between 1877 and 1900 to help Wellingtonians set their watches. While it’s silent now, it stands as a rugged reminder of the city’s colonial past.
• Māori Pou: Look for the beautifully carved wooden pou, which represent the deep ancestral connection to this land.
• Matairangi Nature Trail: If you have little ones in tow, this intersecting trail is a must. It features interactive installations designed to encourage kids to play, climb, and discover the natural world.

Getting There

One of the best things about this walk is how accessible it is. If you are staying in the CBD, you can simply walk to the start at Lawson Place.

For those driving, there are several options. You can park right at the summit if you’re short on time, as there are two main car parks (Car Park 1 and Car Park 2). Car Park 1 includes designated mobility parks for those with limited accessibility.

If you prefer to start from the bottom but want to avoid the city centre, look for limited off-road parallel parking at the Lawson Place trailhead. Alternatively, you can start from the Oriental Bay side via Palliser Road, where there is paid on-street parking (just be mindful of the time restrictions, as wardens are quite active in this area!).

Wildlife Spotting

Don’t forget to take your headphones out—the soundtrack of Mount Victoria is one of its best features. Thanks to the nearby success of the Zealandia Te Mara a Tāne wildlife sanctuary, the birdlife in the Town Belt has exploded in recent years.

• Tūī: You’ll hear their metallic whistles and clicks long before you see them. They are incredibly common year-round.
• Kererū: Look for these heavy, iridescent wood pigeons perched precariously on thin branches. You’ll often hear the distinctive whoosh-whoosh of their wings as they fly overhead.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds love to follow hikers, flitting around to catch the tiny insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Kākā: If you hear a loud, prehistoric-sounding screech, look up! These large forest parrots are occasional visitors to the pines and are a real treat to spot.
• Tauhou (Silvereye) and Riroriro (Grey Warbler): These smaller, more elusive birds provide a constant background chatter in the canopy.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Wellington is famous for its "four seasons in one day" weather, so being prepared is key.

• Best Seasons: This is truly a year-round walk. Summer offers the best chance for golden hour sunsets, while Spring brings fresh growth and high bird activity. Winter days in Wellington can often be crisp, calm, and "bluebird" clear, offering the sharpest views of the distant mountains.
• The Wind: It’s called "Windy Welly" for a reason. The lookout is very exposed. Even if it’s calm in the city, the nor'west winds can howl at the summit. Always pack a windproof jacket or a warm layer, regardless of how it looks from your hotel window.
• What to Wear: Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with good grip are essential due to the roots and rocks.
• Hydration: There are no water fountains along the bush tracks, so bring a bottle with you. There are public toilets located near Alexandra Road, just south of the summit, if you need a pit stop.

Local & Regional Context

Mount Victoria is a place of immense cultural significance. In Māori tradition, the hill is associated with the legend of two taniwha (powerful water spirits) who lived in the harbour when it was still a lake. Whātaitai, one of the taniwha, tried to leap over the land but became stranded, and it is said his soul took the form of a bird, Te Keo, which flew to the summit of this mountain to mourn—hence the name Tangi Te Keo (the weeping of Te Keo).

From a colonial perspective, the Wellington Town Belt was established in 1840 as a way to ensure the public always had access to green space. Walking this trail today, you are stepping through a piece of urban planning history that has protected this ridge from development for over 180 years.

After the Walk

Once you’ve completed the loop and descended back toward the city fringe or Oriental Bay, you’ll be spoiled for choice for "refuelling" stations.

• Beach Babylon: Located right on the Oriental Bay waterfront (about 800m from the trail end), this is a quintessential Wellington cafe. It’s incredibly hiker-friendly, dog-friendly (they even have a "K9 menu"!), and offers a vibrant atmosphere for a big brunch or a celebratory milkshake.
• Karaka Cafe: A bit further along the waterfront (1.5km), this cafe offers a beautiful Māori-inspired menu. Their Caesar salad burger is legendary and the perfect reward for those 183 metres of elevation gain.
• Coolsville Cafe: If you end up on the Hataitai side of the hill, head here. It’s a quirky, friendly spot with a great local vibe and excellent coffee to kickstart your recovery.

The Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway is the perfect introduction to Wellington’s unique blend of nature and culture. It’s a bit of a climb, but once you’re standing at the top with the wind in your hair and the whole city at your feet, you’ll see exactly why we love this place.

1km away

A quirky cafe in Hataitai with a fun, friendly atmosphere and helpful staff. A great spot for a post-hike coffee and bite to eat.