Te Ara Ramaroa Track

About the trail 

Te Ara Ramaroa is a popular track in Whareroa Farm Recreation Reserve. The trail begins from the lower end of the Farm Race Track near the park entrance. Start by following the Ramaroa stream through restoration plantings. You will then enter Ramaroa Bush — a remnant kohekohe and tawa forest.

The trail opens into farmland as it steadily climbs up the valley, crossing the stream many times. The end of the track joins with Ti Kouka Rocks Track and on to Rocks Lookout, the highest point on the farm. Return via Ti Kouka/Rocks Track and Cairn View Track for a great loop walk of about two and a half hours. For a shorter walk, link up with the Ramaroa Wetland Track towards the start.

This trail is also a popular circuit for horse riders. There is a horse-only loop track up to the Rocks Lookout past Ramaroa Bush via Farm Race Track.

Getting there 

• The trail starts from the lower end of the Farm Race Track in Whareroa Farm Recreation Reserve, located 3.5km north of Paekākāriki on the Kāpiti Coast.
• From State Highway 1, take the Mackays Crossing exit to Queen Elizabeth Park. Parking is available for cars and buses at the entrance to the park.
• There are regular train services from Wellington to the Kāpiti Coast. Timetables are available from Metlink.

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 MetService.
• Check Department of Conservation for alerts or closures before you visit.
• Equestrian access through Whareroa Farm is controlled by locked gates. You can pick this up from the Kāpiti Coast District Council depot on Riverbank Road. A deposit is required.
• Summer open hours: 8am to 9pm. Winter open hours: 8am to 6pm.
• Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food and water.
• The track can be muddy after rain. There are many small stream crossings so good footwear is recommended.
• Toilets are available at the Whareroa Farm car park and at the top of Farm Race Track.
• This reserve is a working farm, and some trails cross through paddocks with livestock. If you open a gate, please close it.
• Dogs are not allowed.

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