Northern Walkway

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features

The "crown jewel" of the Northern Walkway is undoubtedly the summit of Mount Kaukau. Once you reach the towering television transmitter at the top, you’re rewarded with spectacular 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, the vista is staggering: you can see the Remutaka Range to the east, the sprawling Wellington Harbour, the shimmering Tasman Sea to the west, and—if the gods of weather are smiling—the snow-capped peaks of the Kaikōura Ranges in the South Island.

History buffs will find plenty to love along the way too. Keep your eyes peeled for abandoned railway tunnels and remnants of the city’s early infrastructure. The walk passes through some of Wellington’s oldest scenic reserves, offering a glimpse into what the landscape looked like before the Victorian villas of Thorndon and Khandallah climbed the hillsides.

For those walking with four-legged friends, the trail is wonderfully dog-friendly. While most of the walk requires dogs to be on a leash to protect the local birdlife, there are designated off-leash areas on the Te Ahumairangi Hill ridgeline and within Trelissick Park, allowing your pup to burn off some extra energy.

Getting There

Being a point-to-point trail, logistics require a little bit of planning. Most hikers choose to start at the Wellington Botanic Garden end. You can take the Cable Car from Lambton Quay up to Kelburn, which is the most scenic way to begin. If you’re driving, there is limited on-street parking on Upland Road near the garden entrance.

The trail ends at the end of Truscott Avenue in Johnsonville. There is a small parking area here if you choose to walk the trail in reverse. Because both ends are well-served by public transport, many locals prefer to leave the car at home. You can easily catch a train from Johnsonville back to the Wellington railway station, or take a bus from the CBD to Kelburn to start your trek.

Wildlife Spotting

Wellington’s "Halo Effect"—the result of the predator-free sanctuary Zealandia—means the Northern Walkway is teeming with native birdlife.

• Kererū: Look for these heavy-set native wood pigeons perched in the branches of kōwhai or karaka trees. You’ll often hear the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see them.
• Tūī: Their metallic blue-green feathers and white throat tufts make them easy to spot, and their complex, melodic songs are the quintessential sound of the New Zealand bush.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These cheeky little birds will often follow you along the trail, flitting around to catch the insects you disturb as you walk.
• Kākā: While they are occasional visitors, these large, charismatic parrots are becoming more common in the area. Listen for their harsh, prehistoric-sounding screeches.
• Riroriro (Grey Warbler): More often heard than seen, their delicate, trilling song is a constant companion in the forested sections of the walk.

The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is most active.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Northern Walkway is a year-round adventure, but each season brings its own character:

• Spring & Autumn: These are arguably the best times to go. The weather is usually mild, and in autumn, the light over the harbour is exceptionally crisp. In spring, the kōwhai trees are in bloom, attracting swarms of Tūī.
• Summer: It can get quite hot on the exposed ridgelines of Te Ahumairangi and Mount Kaukau. Start your walk early (around 8:00 am) to avoid the midday sun and the strongest winds.
• Winter: While chilly, a clear winter’s day in Wellington offers the best visibility for the views toward the South Island.

• Layers: Wellington weather is famously fickle. Even if it’s sunny in the Botanic Garden, the wind can be biting at the top of Mount Kaukau. Bring a windbreaker or a light fleece.
• Sun Protection: The New Zealand sun is intense. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
• Water & Snacks: There are no water fountains once you leave the main parks, so carry at least 1.5 litres of water and some high-energy snacks.

Local & Regional Context

The Northern Walkway isn't just a path; it's a journey through the layers of Wellington's history. Te Ahumairangi Hill holds significant Māori history; its name refers to the "whirlwind" or the "place where the sky was moved." Historically, it was a site used for gardens and as a lookout. During the colonial era, the hill was heavily modified and used for radio transmissions—a legacy that continues with the massive mast atop Mount Kaukau today.

The walk also highlights Wellington's commitment to conservation. The Outer Green Belt concept was designed to protect the ridgelines from development, ensuring that every Wellingtonian has access to nature within minutes of their front door. As you walk through Trelissick Park, you're seeing the results of decades of community-led replanting efforts, turning what was once degraded farmland back into a thriving native ecosystem.

After the Walk

Once you finish your trek at Truscott Avenue or the Botanic Garden, you’ll likely be ready for some serious refueling.

• Picnic Cafe: Located right in the heart of the rose gardens, it’s a beautiful spot for a hearty breakfast or a celebratory slice of cake. It’s family-friendly and allows well-behaved dogs on the patio.
• Smith The Grocer: A short walk down into the CBD will lead you to this gem in the Old Bank Arcade. Their cheese scones are legendary—arguably the best in the city.

• Shepherds Arms Hotel: Located in Thorndon, this historic pub is a fantastic place to rest your legs with a cold drink and a classic pub meal.
• Pravda Café and Grill: For something a bit more sophisticated, head to Pravda for a world-class steak or a modern Kiwi lunch.
• The Old Bailey: A classic "Kiwi pub" near Parliament, perfect for a relaxed atmosphere and a wide range of local beers.

The Northern Walkway is more than just a hike; it’s the ultimate Wellington experience, blending fitness, history, and some of the most jaw-dropping views in the country.

Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.

Best time: Year-round

Shepherds Arms Hotel

900m away

A historic hotel and pub in Thorndon, a 10-minute walk from the Botanic Garden. It offers a laid-back atmosphere, a pub menu, and is praised for its friendly service and proximity to city attractions, making it a good spot for a post-hike refreshment.