Wellington Regional Trails

Take in some of the best views of the city from popular Wellington landmark, the Brooklyn Wind Turbine.

Walking time

2 hours

Length

6.2km

Uses

Walking/Running, Mountain Biking

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Mountain Bike Grade

Intermediate: Grade 3

Profile

374m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)

About the trail

This 6 kilometre trail takes two hours to walk or about 30 minutes to bike. It takes you from the Waimapihi Reserve entrance at the top of Aro Street, to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine at the summit. It’s an easy route that is popular with mountain bikers, runners, and walkers.

From the Waimapihi Reserve entrance, it’s a gentle climb up a well-maintained track. You’ll weave in and out of regenerating bush while listening to the abundant birdsong. This is the result of nearby Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary.

Looking east over Wellington city. The sweeping view shows green hills dotted with houses. The sky is blue with a few clouds.

The panoramic views at the top are spectacular. You can see from the Mākara wind turbines in the west, to Wellington Harbour in the east. To the north is the Hutt Valley and to the south the southern coastline.

Starting from the Transient trail, continue until you reach the intersection and small car park on Ashton Fitchett Drive. From there, head on to Sawmill. You’ll pass by Zealandia’s predator-proof fence as well as WWII bunkers and other historic sites.

At the top of Sawmill, take a left on to Fenceline and continue for 250 metres where you’ll see the start of Windmill across the road. Make sure you don’t go on to Car Parts as it is a downhill-only mountain bike trail.

Cross the road carefully at the green-painted section and continue up Windmill until you reach the wind turbine. On a windy day you’ll hear the whirring of the turbine. 

Getting there

Start from the Waimapihi Reserve park on Aro Street, which is clearly signposted.

What to expect

Most of the Brooklyn Wind Turbine trail is under tree cover. The trail runs along some of Zealandia’s fenceline so it's ideal for spotting or listening to native birdlife.

Adaptive Mountain Bike Grade

This trail is Adaptive Mountain Biking Grade 5. Find out more on AdaptMTB.

Know before you go

  • Dogs must be on leads outside dog exercise areas. Please remember to clean up after your dog.
  • Most trails at Waimapihi Reserve are shared by mountain bikers, runners and walkers. Be mindful of bikers approaching in either direction.
  • Get ready using Plan My Walk by the NZ Mountain Safety Council for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list.
  • For more tips and advice before heading out on Wellington’s trails check out our before you go section.

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