Escarpment Track

Stay and explore key icon.
Stay and explore key icon.

MondayOpen 24 hours.

TuesdayOpen 24 hours.

WednesdayOpen 24 hours.

ThursdayOpen 24 hours.

FridayOpen 24 hours.

SaturdayOpen 24 hours.

SundayOpen 24 hours.

State Highway 1, Paekākāriki

Part of the Te Araroa (the winding walk that makes its way all the way from one end of the country to the other), the Escarpment Walk is a beautiful coastal trail that boasts stunning views of the Kāpiti Coast nearly all the way along. A set of swing bridges and narrow walkways mean those who find heights a little frightening should maybe think twice about coming up here. But, if it’s a thrill and a view you’re after, this is the track for you.

It takes approximately 2-3 hours for the one way trip (it's about 10km) and as the trail runs from Paekakariki Railway Station to Pukerua Bay Railway Station, it’s easiest to use public transport or park your car at one end and train back to it afterwards. There are no toilets on the track, so it’s suggested you use the public toilets in Pukerua Bay next to the local dairy—which, rather ideally, is the perfect place to grab an ice cream and a drink after the walk.

Be wowed by the beauty of Kāpiti's coastline, and remember to pack gear for all weather—it’s a beautiful but exposed track and sunny days can make things hot very quickly.

Words by Rosie Morrison & Photography by Anna Briggs

Information not correct? Report an error

Location

State Highway 1, Paekākāriki

Similar Places

Whitireia Park

Grassland and hills overlooking the sea.
Place Porirua
Stay and explore key icon.

Take a breather from the city and recentre yourself in this picturesque spot that has million-dollar views in every direction.

Te Ara Piko Walkway

Someone cycling on the boardwalk part of Te Ara Piko Walkway, Porirua.
Place Porirua
Stay and explore key icon.

The Te Ara Piko pathway offers one of the best long walks in the Porirua region, taking you along the entire northern side of the Pāuatahanui Inlet across diverse and stunning terrain.

Pukerua Bay

View of the bay with hills behind.
Place Porirua
Stay and explore key icon.

Looking for a beachside walk that’s not like the others? Hidden gem Pukerua Bay is exactly what you’re after.

Tunapo Escape

The Tunapo Escape accommodation on a sunny day.
Place Porirua
Accommodation key icon.

Located just 35 minutes from central Wellington, atop the picturesque Paekākāriki Hill, Tunapo Escape is a tiny house getaway that provides an escape in every sense of the word.