Escarpment Track

About the trail

The Escarpment Track runs from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay, taking in sweeping views of the spectacular Kāpiti Coastline and Kapiti Island. The trail can be walked in either direction, but most choose to walk from north to south.

Heading south, the trail follows the Kāpiti railway line, then veers uphill and across privately-owned farmland. You’ll climb 220 metres above sea level and navigate steep, narrow pathways on what is one of the highlights of Te Araroa Trail.

Families of all ages enjoy this trail, but it is not recommended for the faint-hearted: you’ll scale around 1,200 steep steps, navigate narrow pathways across ridgelines, and traverse two swing bridges.

Getting there

Following the signposts to the start of the trail, you can access The Escarpment Track from either Paekākāriki or Pukerua Bay, both an easy one-hour journey from Wellington by train or vehicle. The walking distance from station to station is 10km.

Train timetables are available from Metlink and tickets can be purchased onboard with cash or Snapper.

Know before you go

• Get ready using Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list. For weather forecasts, check the MetService website.
• Check the track status on the Te Araroa website.
• Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food and water.
• Toilets are available at Paekākāriki Station on weekends and in Paekākāriki village during daylight hours. There is also a toilet at the Pukerua Bay shopping area.
• The track is adjacent to operating farmland, so no dogs or cycling are permitted.
• Take walking sticks if you’re not used to prolonged steep ascents and descents. People with vertigo are warned against doing this walk.
• Seating is available along the trail.
• Keep to the marked track as it crosses private property, and DO NOT enter the rail corridor, or you may risk getting a $20,000 fine.