Wellington Regional Trails
The sun rises over bushy hills. Two people stand next to a trig on one of the hills.

Walking time

30 min

Length

834m

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Profile

170m climb

170m descent

725m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)

About the trail

Te Ara Tirohanga (formerly Remutaka Trig Track) starts near the summit of Remutaka Hill Road on the Upper Hutt side. Starting at 555 metres, it climbs to the northern crest of the Remutaka range at 725 metres.

It zigzags upwards on an exposed slope through regenerating native trees, shrubs, sub-alpine grasses, and lichen. The more you climb the ascending pathway, the better the view.

On a clear day, when you reach the trig, you’ll have superb views of the southern Wairarapa region. Including Lake Wairarapa, the Aorangi Range, and Pākuratahi Forest.

The sun rises over Remutaka Hill causing shadows on the forest. Mist sits in the valley.

Getting there

  • You can access the Te Ara Tirohanga car park from State Highway 2 on the Upper Hutt side of Remutaka Hill.
  • The car park is about 300 metres from the summit and is signposted.
A person walks down the gravel path on the Te Ara Tirohanga track with views of the hills. The sky is tinged pink.

Know before you go

  • Get ready using Plan My Walk by the NZ Mountain Safety Council for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews, and a packing list.
  • The terrain is sub-alpine and exposed to the elements.
  • Weather conditions can vary from car park to trig.
  • Be prepared for strong wind gusts and exposed sections the higher you go.

For more tips and advice before heading out on Wellington’s trails check out our before you go section.