Below is a list of the top and leading Bush Walks in Wellington. To help you find the best Bush Walks located near you in Wellington we put together our own list based on this rating points list.
Wellington’s Best Bush Walks:
The top rated Bush Walks in Wellington are:
- Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush – lined with a lush network of native plant species
- Trelissick Park – a popular bushwalk in the capital city
- Mt Kaukau Summit Hike – offers scenic views of the surrounding areas
- Seton Nossiter Park – perfect for short walks and hike
- Khandallah Park – home to the largest continuous native forest in Wellington
Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush
Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush has a collection of 1,200 plant species, cultivars, and hybrids said to be the fruit of the hard work of a well-known NZ botanist named Dr Leonard Cockayne. It is a lovely representation of the mainland and off-short plants of New Zealand. The Wellington-based public park is suited for both locals and tourists looking for a relaxing escape from the busy city life. All plant species are labelled to encourage awareness and love for the environment. The local tourist spot is also a great venue for bush walks, nature trails, and guided tours.
Products/Services:
Kids Activities, Picnic areas, Leonard Cockayne Centre, Carved Gateway / Waharoa, Collections, Nature Trail, Barbecues, Guided Tours, Dog Walking
LOCATION:
Address: 160 Wilton Road, Wilton, Wellington 6012
Phone: (444) 991-400
Website: www.wellingtongardens.nz/otari-wiltons-bush
REVIEWS:
“Love this bush! It’s my daily walk 🙂 You can walk on the flat or go uphill, the Bird song is beautiful, the sun shining through the trees. 🙂 The sound of the river you walk alongside is calming.” –Heidi Kursteiner
Trelissick Park
Trelissick Park played an important role in the early days of Māoris and Europeans residing in the area. It was used as a gateway by Harbour inhabitants to the Porirua area. The park got its name from the Cornish estates of Captain Daniell who used to reside in a small suburb within the Wellington region in the ’80s. Today, it is a frequent venue for bush walks and hiking by residents and visitors. Hikers can start at the Ngaio Gorge Road, Trellisick Crescent, or Kaiwharawhara Road. Tracks are described as well-formed but tend to be steeper in other areas.
Products/Services:
Karori Cemetery, Otari-Wilton’s Bush, Sanctuary to Sea Walkway, Zealandia/Karori Wildlife Sanctuary
LOCATION:
Address: Trelissick Crescent, Ngaio, Wellington 6035
Phone: (444) 994-444
Website: www.wellington.govt.nz/trelissick-park
REVIEWS:
“Great walk through native bush close to many suburbs with lots of access points and great tracks. It is an off-leash dog area so it’s a fantastic place to take your dog for a walk and to socialise with other dogs. The stream provides plenty of opportunities for them to get a drink or have a swim.” –Blair Marshall
Mt Kaukau Summit Hike
Mt Kaukau Summit Hike is a beloved hiking area of Wellington residents that features a gorgeous 4-kilometre loop that needs at least 3 hours to finish. The track starts at Simla Crescent slowly leading to the Northern Walkway where picnic areas are located and upon finally reaching the summit, hikers will reach the Skyline Walkway. Take some time to appreciate the wonders of NZ nature before going back down at Khandallah Pool. For newbie hikers, an alternate route measuring 1.5 km is also available. This only requires 30 minutes to complete.
Products/Services:
Dog Exercise Areas, Picnic Area, Seats
LOCATION:
Address: 49e Simla Crescent, Khandallah, Wellington 6035
Website: www.wellington.govt.nz/khandallah-park-loop
REVIEWS:
“A very nice bushwalk. A medium incline.” –Nigel Woolf
Seton Nossiter Park
Seton Nossiter Park houses the remaining concrete elements of the 1885-built viaduct. The largest timber viaduct at that time was constructed by the Wellington and Manawatu Railway Company. Seton Nossiter Park is nestled in between the Horokiwi and Grenada Village and bordered by Woodridge to the east and Paparangi and Newlands to the south. It is a 1.6 km track measuring 30 ha and home to a rich network of bush and native plant collections. The area has a dog exercise area, picnic station and a lovely stream.
Products/Services:
Picnic Area, Dog Exercise Area
LOCATION:
Address: 100 Mark Avenue, Paparangi, Wellington 6037
Phone: (444) 994-444
Website: www.wellington.govt.nz/seton-nossiter-park
REVIEWS:
“Some nice short walks with bush and a small stream. Watch out for dogs off leads if you take small kids.” –Reece Geursen
Khandallah Park
Khandallah Park is popular for its walking tracks that travel to the Northern Walkway, Skyline Walkway, and Mount Kaukau. It is touted as one of the biggest continuous native forests in Wellington which plays a significant role in maintaining the country’s ecosystem balance. The park has over 9 km of walking tracks that presents a gorgeous view of densely packed bushes. To reach the summit at Mount Kaukau, hikers are advised to start at either Simla Crescent, Clark, Street, or Woodmancote Road. The hike would require 1 hour to finish with occasional steep areas.
Products/Services:
Picnic Area, Playground
LOCATION:
Address: Woodmancote Road, Khandallah, Wellington 6035
Phone: (444) 994-444
Website: www.wellington.govt.nz/khandallah-park
REVIEWS:
“Great area of native bush, filled with birdlife and walking tracks. When summer is cranking the pool is a refreshing dip with a great cafe right next door. Kids love the playground and building dams in the stream.” –Andrew Thompson