Wellington Regional Trails
The Fenceline Trail in Waimapihi Reserve. It travels alongside the fence of Zealandia, amongst trees, to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine.

Follow the boundary of Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne ecosanctuary and tune into native birdsong.

Walking time

2 hr 30 min

Length

8.2km

Uses

Walking/Running, Mountain Biking

Type

Double track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Mountain Bike Grade

Intermediate: Grade 3

Profile

537m climb

-472m descent

382m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)
A wooden sign on the Fenceline track in Waimapihi Reserve showing directions. The Zealandia border fence sits behind the sign.

About the trail

Fenceline is a well-maintained 4WD trail around the full perimeter of Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (the world’s first fully fenced ecosanctuary).

You’ll stick tight to the predator-proof fence that provides protection to some of New Zealand’s most endangered flora and fauna, while being serenaded by birdsong along the way.

This loop trail can be travelled in both directions. If you’re walking, be aware of mountain bikers travelling downhill at speed.

Getting there

You can access the trail from multiple locations. The most popular entry/exit points are at:

  • the Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne car park
  • the base of the Brooklyn Wind Turbine
  • from George Denton Park in Highbury.

There are regular bus services available. Visit Metlink for timetables.

Know before you go

  • 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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The bright blue water and rugged coastline at Red Rocks on Wellington's south coast.

Red Rocks Coastal Walk

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveExperience the wildest part of Wellington’s rugged south coast, where you might encounter a colony of fur seals and catch views of the South Island.

The rocky coastline, blue water, and mountains are at Red Rocks Coastal Walkway.

Red Rocks Track

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.

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

Brooklyn Wind Turbine

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveTake in some of the best views of the city from popular Wellington landmark, the Brooklyn Wind Turbine.

A vast landscape with tall dry grass in the foreground, rolling hills, houses along the coastline and a mountain range across the water.

Tip Track

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveA punishing route to the top of Hawkins Hill with stunning views over Wellington.

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Te Araroa Walkway

A sturdy single trail that runs from Ohariu Valley Road to the top of Rangituhi/Colonial Knob.

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Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway

Start from the city and climb through historic pine forests to enjoy unbeatable views of the Wellington Harbour and the city from Mount Victoria Lookout.

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Wrights Hill Lookout Loop Walk

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Salvation Bush Walk

A walking and mountain biking loop trail at Wrights Hill Reserve.

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Cannon Point Walkway

Zigzag through the hills north of Upper Hutt to the historic Birchville Dam.

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Skyline Walkway

Journey along Wellington’s highest peaks from Mākara Saddle to the summit of Mount Kaukau, ending in Johnsonville.