Wellington Regional Trails
Two people sit on a bench in a small clearing at the summit of Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve in the Kāpiti Coast.

Located in Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve, the Te Au track climbs to 521m and offers panoramic views of the Waikanae Estuary and Kapiti Island.

Walking time

3-4 hr return

Length

2.8km

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Advanced: Tramping track

Profile

523m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)
Two people sitting on a bench looking out at Kapiti Island over the native bush on the Te Au Track, in Hemi Matenga Reserve.

About the trail

This beautiful bush walk offers panoramic views of Kapiti Island and the coastline to the south. Starting from 133 Huia Street, a narrow right-of-way leads between two private properties to the Te Au Track.

This grassy trail ascends through dense native bush to Hemi Matenga Reserve. Follow the orange markers directing walkers up a steep, rough track. This terrain is uneven but much easier to climb up than down.

The trail continues its climb to a height of 521 metres. At this point, the track is more varied, with fallen trees and roots to navigate through. After an hour, a lookout point offers excellent views of the South Island and Kapiti Island, with a wooden bench providing a great lunch spot.

The track then heads back into the bush and along the ridge, passing two other lookouts. The first offers views over the Reikorangi Valley, and the other to Waikanae and Kapiti Island. At the second of these lookouts, the track joins the popular Parata Track leading back down to Waikanae and the Tui Crescent entrance/exit point.

Looking for more?

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Hemi Matenga Scenic ReserveThe popular, steep bush-walk, located in the Hemi Matenga Reserve in Waikanae, rewards your efforts with beautiful views out to Kapiti Island and Reikorangi Valley.

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