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Wellington Botanic Garden to Mount Kaukau
14.9 km
4 hours 30 minutes
735 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you’re looking for a walk that perfectly encapsulates the "coolest little capital in the world," look no further than the Northern Walkway. This isn’t just a stroll through a park; it’s a 14.9-kilometre odyssey that stitches together the very best of Wellington’s wild backyard with its sophisticated urban charm.
Linking the manicured elegance of the Wellington Botanic Garden to the rugged, wind-swept heights of Mount Kaukau, this trail is a favourite for locals and a "must-do" for visitors who want to see the city from a different perspective. Whether you’re a seasoned tramper or a family looking for a weekend challenge, the Northern Walkway offers an invigorating escape that feels miles away from the CBD, even though you’re never truly far from a good flat white.
The journey typically begins at the top of the iconic Wellington Cable Car in Kelburn. Stepping off the red carriage, you’re immediately greeted by the floral scents of the Wellington Botanic Garden. The first leg of the walk is a gentle introduction, winding through heritage trees and vibrant flower beds before descending towards the historic suburb of Thorndon.
However, don't let the easy start fool you. The Northern Walkway is a dynamic trail with a total elevation gain of about 735 metres. It’s a point-to-point track that demands a moderate level of fitness, especially as you transition from the city streets into the "Outer Green Belt."
After leaving the gardens, you’ll tackle the slopes of Te Ahumairangi Hill (formerly known as Tinakori Hill). The terrain here shifts to thick native bush and pine forests. As you climb the ridgeline, the city begins to shrink below you, replaced by the rustle of wind through the trees. One of the most enchanting parts of this walk is the descent into Trelissick Park. Here, the trail follows the Ngaio Gorge, where the sound of the stream provides a soothing soundtrack. It feels like a secret valley, hidden away from the suburban bustle above.
The final act of the walk is the ascent to Mount Kaukau. This is the highest point of the journey at 445 metres, and while the climb can be steep in sections, the payoff is immense. The track is generally well-formed, but after a classic Wellington downpour, some sections can get a bit muddy, so sturdy footwear is a must. Because it’s a shared-use track, you’ll likely share the path with mountain bikers and local trail runners—everyone is usually happy to trade a friendly "G'day" as they pass.
Limited on-street car parking is available at both ends of the walkway: on Upland Road near the Botanic Garden (Kelburn end) and at the end of Truscott Avenue in Johnsonville.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
300m away
Nestled within the beautiful Wellington Botanic Garden, Picnic Cafe offers relaxed café-style dining with views over the rose gardens. It's a family-friendly spot known for hearty breakfasts, delicious lunches, and excellent coffee, welcoming small, well-behaved dogs on its patio.
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Point to point
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.
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.
Wellington’s "Halo Effect"—the result of the predator-free sanctuary Zealandia—means the Northern Walkway is teeming with native birdlife.
The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is most active.
The Northern Walkway is a year-round adventure, but each season brings its own character:
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.
Once you finish your trek at Truscott Avenue or the Botanic Garden, you’ll likely be ready for some serious refueling.
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.
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Falco novaeseelandiae
New Zealand's only endemic falcon, the Kārearea is a powerful and incredibly fast predator, often seen soaring above forested areas and tussock lands.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Nestor meridionalis
Large forest parrot found in native bush. Loud and social, increasingly common in predator-controlled sanctuaries.
Best time: Year-round
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.
1.2km away
Located in the historic Old Bank Arcade off Lambton Quay, this charming cafe is known for its high-quality coffee, delicious baked goods (including lauded cheese scones), and a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. It's a great spot for breakfast or lunch.
1.4km away
An elegant Wellington institution on Customhouse Quay, Pravda offers a sophisticated European-inspired menu with a focus on exceptional steaks, fresh seafood, and modern Kiwi cuisine. It's perfect for a leisurely lunch or a post-hike dinner.
1.4km away
Wellington's original Kiwi pub, located in the CBD near Parliament. It offers a classic pub experience with a wide range of beers, hearty meals, and live sports, providing a friendly and warm atmosphere for hikers to unwind.
1.4km away
A bustling and cosmopolitan hub in the heart of Wellington's CBD, known for indulgent brunches, barista-crafted coffees, and a modern bistro menu featuring fresh, seasonal dishes. It transforms into a vibrant evening spot.