Wilkinson Track

About the trail

The Wilkinson track is a steady, uphill climb suitable for all ages and most fitness levels. Walk to Tūteremoana — the highest point on Kapiti Island at 521m elevation. The trail passes a picnic area and hīhī feeding station about a third of the way up. Stop for a while and let the birds come to you.

After reaching the summit, enjoy the view and a well-earned rest, then return to the shelter on the same track. On a clear day you can see the Kaikoura Ranges, Mt Taranaki, and Mt Ruapehu.

Getting there 

• You can only visit Kapiti Island through Kapiti Island Nature Tours. Boat trips and tours leave from Kāpiti Boating Club at Paraparaumu Beach. This is a popular destination so book in advance.
• It's a 45 minute drive or train journey from Wellington to Paraparaumu. There are regular train services to Paraparaumu on the Kapiti Line. Check Metlink for timetables.

Know before you go 

• Get ready using Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews, and a packing list.
• A shelter, toilets and picnic tables are available on Kapiti Island.
• Ensure that your belongings are placed out of reach of weka and kākā — they are very inquisitive and are experts at getting into bags.
• Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food, and water.
• Be ready to leave the island at the departure time announced by your boat skipper.
• Everything on the island is protected, and nothing may be removed. This includes plant material, insects, lizards, birds, feathers and shells.
• Do not feed birds and other wildlife.
• Remove all your rubbish from the island. Carry out what you carry in.
• Keep to the marked tracks.
• Biosecurity rules require food to be carried in sealed containers, rubbish taken out with you and all your gear checked prior to departure.