Wellington Adventures - What to See and Do

Northern Crossing

For experienced trampers this Tararua crossing, northwest of Masterton, takes 2.5 days. It’s a less developed and wilder version of the Southern Crossing. The ability to follow rough tracks and use a map and compass is essential. When in Masterton staying a few nights at the Masterton Motor Lodge is highly recommended.

If doing this trip in a weekend, start at the end of Upper Waingawa Road (14 km northwest of Masterton) and head into Mitre Flats Hut on Friday night (3 hours). On Saturday, tramp over the tussocky tops to Te Matawai Hut via Mitre, Tarn Ridge, the rugged Waiohine Pinnacles and Arete. An early start is essential as this is a long day (8-12 hours). Both Tarn Ridge Hut, beside the track, and Arete Bivvy, 200 metres off the main route, are good for emergency shelters but not much else.

In fine weather the easiest and most scenic way out from Te Matawai Hut is via South Ohau Stream. If the stream is up, the Gable End track is best. Alpine experience is required in winter.

Karapoti Classic

The Akatarawa is a large area of hilly forest about 10 km northwest of Upper Hutt that has gravel roads and 4WD tracks running through it. It is one of Wellington’s best mountain biking areas, and amongst other excellent rides boasts the renowned Karapoti Classic. For an adventure in this forest, plan a trip (make sure someone at home knows all about it), and then go for it. If you’ve already done the Karapoti, and would like an alterative, head in from Paraparaumu and do the loop anti-clockwise.

Lower Waiohine Gorge

The Waiohine River flows out of the Tararua Ranges onto the Wairarapa plains 10km west of Carterton. To get there drive 4 km north of Greytown on Highway 2 and take the signposted roads to Walls Whare car park at the end of Waiohine Gorge Road. Take note of the exit point about 5 km past the end of the tarseal, where the road drops down to the river level. Launching from Walls Whare gives you about 5 km of scenic grade I and II tubing or kayaking. Watch out for the occasional steel stake poking out of the water and portage the big log jam just below the car park.

Another good trip for intermediate tubers is the Waiohine River, from Totara Flats down to Walls Whare. This involves a tramp in, followed by 2-3 hours floating down through a series of grade II rapids.

Makara to Red Rocks

This walk, along a section of Wellington’s wild and rugged southwest coastline, can be done in one very long day or two easy ones. It involves everything from beach walking to cliff climbing (optional!). There’s a seal colony at Red Rocks. It’s only possible to walk the coastal section at the Makara end during low tide, but there is an inland alternative. Tide times are different on the southern and eastern sides of the coast.

Baring Head

Wellington’s most popular local rock climbing area is located on the Wainuiomata coast, east of the harbour entrance. Half a dozen solid greywacke outcrops sit on the beach like sunbathing armadillos. Baring Head provides good bouldering for both beginners and rock climbing gymnasts, and is the scene of annual climbing competitions.

It takes nearly an hour to drive through Petone, over the hill and down the Wainuiomata Valley. As soon as you reach the coast, park in the gravel pit next to the Wainuiomata River. From here it’s a 20 minute walk west to the rocks that can be seen in the distance. Which route you take depends on the state of the river. A good rule of thumb is to cross at the car park if you can, otherwise walk along to the mouth. Be careful crossing here - it’s a long cold swim to Antarctica.

A healthy alternative to driving is to catch the Days Bay ferry from Wellington and cycle around the coast to Baring Head. This pleasant ride along a gravel road takes about an hour.

Wharf Jumping

Next time you’re bored on a summer afternoon, try wharf jumping. It’s quite a simple activity really. First pick a good wharf - not too high, not too low and with no safety rails on the end. Days Bay in Wellington has a wharf that’s just right. Calmly cycle down to it and accelerate along its full length - don’t stop. If you’re still bored by the time you hit the water, see a psychiatrist.