Ti Kouka/Rocks Track

About the trail

Ti Kouka/Rocks Track is a tramping and horse riding trail with scenic views across Whareroa Farm Recreation Reserve.

From the Farm Race Track, climb up the steep ridgeline and take in the views at Ti Kouka Lookout. The track then continues uphill to the Rocks Lookout — the highest point on the farm at 360m elevation. The lookout has 360-degree views over the Akatarawa Valley, Kāpiti Coast, and South Island, and nearby Kapiti Island.

You can complete this trail as a there-and-back journey, or a loop connecting with Te Ara Ramaroa Track. There are several seats and picnic tables along the way to stop for a rest.

Getting there

• The trail starts from the lower end of the Farm Race Track, just before the Guardians’ Caravan in Whareroa Farm Recreation Reserve, located 3.5km north of Paekākāriki on the Kāpiti Coast.
• Take the Mackays Crossing exit off State Highway 1 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

• Check Department of Conservation for alerts or closures before you visit.
• Get ready using Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews, and a packing list. For weather forecasts, check MetService.
• 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, and good footwear is advised.
• Toilets are available at the Whareroa Farm car park and the top of Farm Race Track.
• This reserve is a working farm, and some trails cross through paddocks with livestock. Be respectful, close gates behind you, and don’t bring dogs.
• Equestrian access through Whareroa Farm is controlled by locked gates. To rent a key, contact Kāpiti Coast District Council. Leave gates as you find them.
• For more tips and advice before heading out on Wellington’s trails, check out our before you go section.