Redwood Bush Loop

Loop

The highlight of the ascent is reaching the lookout point. After a bit of a puff, the bush opens up to reveal a picturesque panorama. From here, you can look out over the northern reaches of Wellington City and catch glimpses of the sparkling harbour in the distance. It’s a great spot to pause, have a drink of water, and appreciate the contrast between the wild forest and the suburban landscape below.

Highlights & Must-See Features

One of the most special things about the Redwood Bush Loop is the presence of truly ancient trees. Keep an eye out for the Northern Rātā; these trees often start their lives as epiphytes high in the canopy before sending roots down to the ground, eventually outliving their host trees. They are absolute icons of the New Zealand bush.

For the keen-eyed (and for kids with a sense of adventure), the trail offers a bit of a treasure hunt. Look closely at the trunks of the older trees for small, naturally occurring holes. These are the favoured hideouts of the native wētā. While they are nocturnal and unlikely to be waving hello during the day, knowing they are tucked away in the bark adds a layer of magic to the walk.

The lookout is, of course, the star attraction. On a clear Wellington day, the view across the hills toward the harbour is spectacular. It is the perfect spot for a photo, especially during the "golden hour" in the late afternoon when the light hits the ridges of the Hutt Valley across the water.

Finally, don't miss the playground near the Larsen Crescent entrance. If you are walking with children, this is the ultimate "carrot on a stick" to keep them moving through the bush. It’s a modern, fun space where they can burn off any remaining energy while you enjoy the last few moments of peace.

Getting There

Accessing the Redwood Bush Loop is straightforward, with several entry points depending on where you prefer to start.

• Larsen Crescent Entrance: This is generally considered the main entrance. There is a decent-sized, free car park here. It can get quite busy on sunny weekends because it is so popular with locals, so arriving a bit earlier in the morning is a good idea.
• Achilles Close Entrance: Located off Oriel Avenue, this entrance features a smaller sealed car park next to a prominent Redwood Bush sign. This serves as a primary trailhead and is often a bit quieter than the Larsen Crescent side.

If you are coming from Wellington city centre, it’s a quick 15-to-20-minute drive north on State Highway 1. Simply take the Tawa exit and follow the signs toward the residential hills.

Wildlife Spotting

The restoration of this bush is a local success story, and the birdlife is a testament to that. Thanks to the tireless work of the Friends of Tawa Bush Reserves and the Wellington City Council, pest management has allowed native species to thrive here.

The most common bird you’ll see (and hear) is the Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon). These large, iridescent green and white birds are famous for the loud "whoosh-whoosh" sound of their wings as they fly between branches. You’ll also find plenty of Tūī, recognizable by their white throat tufts and complex, melodic songs that echo through the canopy.

Keep a lookout for the tiny, restless Pīwakawaka (Fantail). These birds are incredibly friendly and will often follow hikers along the trail, darting around to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. If you listen closely, you might also hear the high-pitched "trill" of the Grey Warbler (Riroriro), a bird more often heard than seen.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot a Kākā flying over from the nearby Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne sanctuary. These large forest parrots are becoming more common in the Tawa area as their population expands. For the best birdwatching experience, try to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its most vocal.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Redwood Bush Loop is truly a walk for all seasons.

• Spring: This is when the forest is at its most vibrant. The new growth on the ferns is a brilliant lime green, and the birdlife is particularly active as they begin their nesting season.
• Summer: The thick canopy provides excellent shade, making this one of the best walks to do on a hot Wellington day. It stays remarkably cool under the trees.
• Autumn: The air is crisp and clear, often providing the best visibility from the lookout across to the harbour.
• Winter: Because the track is well-maintained with gravel and boardwalks, it doesn't become a mud bath like some other trails. It’s a great option for a winter dose of vitamin N (nature).

• What to wear: Standard walking shoes or sneakers are perfectly fine for this trail. You don't need heavy-duty hiking boots unless it has been raining exceptionally hard.
• Weather: Tawa is slightly more sheltered than the coastal parts of Wellington, but the "nor'west" winds can still whistle over the ridges. The forest provides great wind protection, but the lookout can be breezy, so bring a light windbreaker.
• Timing: Allow about an hour for the full loop at a casual pace. If you’re a fast walker, you could do it in 40 minutes, but why rush?

Local & Regional Context

The name "Tawa" itself is a nod to the very trees you walk among on this trail. The tawa tree was a vital resource for Māori; the berries were a food source (after a long process of steaming and drying), and the timber was used for various tools.

This specific pocket of bush is a "key native ecosystem." For a long time, much of the surrounding land was cleared for farming and housing, but this area was spared, leaving us with a precious window into the past. The Friends of Tawa Bush Reserves have done incredible work here, planting thousands of native trees and maintaining a rigorous trapping programme to keep predators like rats and stoats at bay.

When you walk the loop, you aren't just taking a stroll; you’re walking through a community-led conservation success. The presence of the Northern Rātā and Mataī makes this one of the most ecologically significant areas in the northern Wellington suburbs.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop and worked up a bit of an appetite, Tawa has some fantastic spots to refuel.

• The Borough (1.7km away): Located in the heart of Tawa, this is a brilliant family-friendly spot. They have a sunny beer garden which is perfect for a post-hike drink, and the menu covers everything from hearty burgers to fresh salads.
• Tawa Village Bakery & Cafe (1.9km away): If you’re after something quick and classic, you can’t beat this local favourite. Their pies are legendary, and it’s a great place to grab a coffee and a sweet treat.
• Urban Eatery (2.2km away): For a more substantial brunch, head here. Their eggs Benedict and French toast are highly rated, and the portions are generous—exactly what you need after a hill climb.
• Sprig and Fern Tawa (1.4km away): If you’ve got your dog with you, this is the place to go. It’s a very pet-friendly tavern with a relaxed vibe, offering a great range of craft beers and ciders. It’s the perfect spot to sit back and chat about the highlights of your walk.

The Redwood Bush Loop is a shining example of why Wellingtonians love their city—the ability to be in deep, ancient forest one minute and sitting in a world-class cafe the next. It’s a short walk with a long-lasting impact on your well-being. Enjoy the birds, admire the giants, and take in that view!

1.7km away

A family-friendly cafe, restaurant, and bar in Tawa's town centre, offering classic meals, a sunny beer garden, and regular quiz nights.