Escarpment Track
Take in spectacular views of Kapiti Island from high above the Kāpiti Coastline.
957m climb
1099m highest point
Kapakapanui Hut Track is a challenging but enjoyable walk on the edge of the Tararua Range. It’s ideal for keen trampers looking for a full-day walk or people wanting to stay overnight in Kapakapanui Hut.
The trail begins with several stream crossings so prepare to get your feet wet. You cannot cross the Ngatiawa River after heavy rain so plan your trip and check the weather forecast before you go.
The trail then climbs uphill and after one kilometre you’ll reach the turn-off for the loop.
Unable to render element
You can walk up to the hut in either direction — it is well-marked along the way.
If you choose to go left (clockwise) to reach the hut, the track opens up to a flat meadow, which is great for a picnic lunch. After a quick stop, continue to the summit for extensive views of the Tararua Range and Kāpiti Coast.
If you choose to head right at the turn-off (anticlockwise) you’ll reach the summit first and then walk down to the hut soon after. The track is steep and challenging in places and requires some scrambling up tree roots.
Keep an eye out for the goblin forest between the hut and the summit. This enchanting section of track is full of stunted, moss-covered trees.
@the_wanderingdrifter
Take in spectacular views of Kapiti Island from high above the Kāpiti Coastline.
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.
Zigzag through the hills north of Upper Hutt to the historic Birchville Dam.
East Harbour Regional ParkAn easy trail through mature beech forest and stunning kahikatea trees.
East Harbour Regional ParkSee native kererū and orchids while enjoying views over Wellington from the hills above Days Bay.
Hemi Matenga Scenic ReserveHead to Waikanae to walk through one of the largest remaining kohekohe forests in New Zealand.
Coast 35 connects Paekākāriki and Ōtaki through an off-road shared trail that runs parallel with the Kāpiti Expressway.
Spend the night at Powell Hut or continue on to the Mount Holdsworth summit on this one or two-day adventure in the Tararua Range.
The multi-day circuit around Mount Holdsworth gives you the opportunity to explore the tops of the Tararua Range. Enjoy 360-degree views of the Wairarapa region and Wellington.
Follow the banks of the Ōtaki River on this popular walking and mountain biking trail, offering views of the coastline, river, and the Tararua Range.
Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveAdventure along the ridgelines on the south coast for huge views of the Cook Strait and then down to the coastline to meet the fur seals.
Belmont Regional ParkGet a taste of back country life on this half-day scenic walk or ride through mature native forest.
A sturdy single trail that runs from Ohariu Valley Road to the top of Colonial Knob.
The Te Ara Utiwai trail in Porirua is a gentle climb to the Rangituhi lookout through native bush.
Queen Elizabeth ParkWalk or cycle this wide, mostly flat trail along Kāpiti Coast’s dunelands, from Raumati to Paekākāriki.