Wellington Regional Trails

Walking time

4 hr

Length

3.4km

Uses

Walking/Running, Mountain Biking, Horse Riding

Type

Double track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Mountain Bike Grade

Easy: Grade 2

Profile

17m highest point

Dogs

Yes
An adult and two children walk along a path in a lush valley with mountains in the background.

About the trail

Follow the banks of the Ōtaki River on this popular walking and mountain biking trail. Generally considered an easy route, the gravel track starts from the river mouth at Ōtaki beachfront and continues past State Highway 1 all the way to a lagoon at Chrystalls Bend Walkway.

Horses are allowed, except on private land upstream of Chrystalls Lagoon, on the northern side of the river, and land (Ngāti Huia ki Katihiku) on the southern river bank.

Walk under regenerating native trees and enjoy views of the coastline, river, and the Tararua Range. This track is for all fitness levels and is perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

The trail starts from the southern end of Ōtaki Beach. It can also be accessed from Kāpiti Lane (just past the Ōtaki River Estuary Viewing Platform). Parking is available on Marine Parade opposite Ōtaki Beach.