Te Ara o Whareroa
Queen Elizabeth ParkWalk or cycle this wide, mostly flat trail along Kāpiti Coast’s dunelands, from Raumati to Paekākāriki.
Walking time
2 hr return
Length
3.7km
Uses
Walking/Running, Mountain Biking
Type
Single track
Walking difficulty
Easy: Walking track
Mountain Bike Grade
Easy: Grade 2
Profile
20m climb
20m descent
21m highest point
Dogs
Yes (on lead)
Capture Studios
About the trail
This coastal track winds through sand dunes between Paekākāriki and Raumati South. The sea, inland hills, and Kapiti Island will be a constant companion. On a clear day, you can see as far south as the South Island and north to Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki.
The well-maintained wide track is sign-posted. Keep an eye out for the birds commonly seen in the coastal habitat, including tūī, wax eye, fantail, goldfinch, yellowhammer, oystercatchers, and the more exotic white-faced heron.
The track is split into two sections that meet at Mackays Crossing. The southern section between Paekākāriki and Mackays Crossing is about 2km or 1-1.5 hours return. Take a picnic and stop at one of the large, grassy areas, or join one of many secondary pathways linking to the Inland Track to return a different way.
From Mackays Crossing to Raumati South, the northern section is 1.5km (1-hour return). In this section, you’ll see the progress of local sand dune restoration projects to encourage native plant regeneration.
Getting there
From Paekākāriki train station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the Queen Elizabeth Park entrance on Wellington Road. You’ll find an information board, map, and directions opposite the Paekākāriki Holiday Park. Note there’s no public transport within Paekākāriki or between Paekākāriki and Raumati South.
If driving, parking is available at the Paekākāriki and Raumati South entrances to the park, Mackays Crossing, and Whareroa Beach. Access gates to Queen Elizabeth Park are locked at dusk. If you get locked in, ring the ranger on 027 244 5319.
Looking for more?
Inland Track
Queen Elizabeth ParkIf you love sea views and don’t mind some inclines, head along the winding ridge of the Inland Track.
Te Ara o Tipapa (Wetland Loop)
Queen Elizabeth ParkAn easy walk through a remnant forest, home to giant native kahikatea trees, restored wetlands, forests, and sand dunes.
Coast 35
Coast 35 connects Paekākāriki and Ōtaki through an off-road shared trail that runs parallel with the Kāpiti Expressway.
Ōtaki River Trail
Follow the banks of the Ōtaki River on this popular walking and biking trail, with views of the coastline, river, and the Tararua Range.
Waikanae River Trail
Walk or ride the banks of Waikanae River from State Highway 1 to the sea.
Campbell’s Mill Road
Whareroa Farm Recreation ReserveA wide, gentle farm track connecting many Whareroa Farm tracks to the Akatarawa Forest and Mount Wainui.
Te Whiti Riser
A popular all-weather walking and mountain biking track overlooking Wainuiomata and Lower Hutt.
Hutt River Trail
Follow the picturesque Hutt River all the way from Petone to Upper Hutt on this easy, well-maintained trail.
Pencarrow Coast Road
Travel along a flat winding trail to the historic Pencarrow Lighthouse and the shores of Lake Kohangatera.