Last updated June 2026
The Aro Valley Cycleway provides a separated bike route along Aro Street and Raroa Road, linking the western suburbs of Karori, Highbury, Kelburn and Aro Valley with central Wellington. It forms part of the city’s Paneke Pōneke bike network and offers a lower-stress option for commuting and recreational rides by separating cyclists from through traffic. The project includes an extended 30 km/h speed zone, raised pedestrian crossings and speed platforms to improve safety for all road users. Work began in April 2023 in two stages and the route is now complete.
Practical Information
| Route | Aro Street and Raroa Road, Wellington |
| Connects | Karori, Highbury, Kelburn and Aro Valley to central Wellington |
| Surface | Sealed with separated uphill bike lane |
| Speed zone | 30 km/h extended along Aro Street |
| Cost | Free |
| Status | Complete |
About the Aro Valley Cycleway
Aro Valley lies in a steep-sided valley southwest of the city centre, with Aro Street serving as a key connection to the CBD. The cycleway features a separated uphill bike lane on Aro Street and Raroa Road, along with shared path improvements through Aro Park and on Raroa Crescent. Additional measures include a new raised pedestrian crossing near Aro Park, four speed humps on Aro Street, extended resident parking options and better bike parking in the shopping village.
The route connects directly to the Brooklyn Road Uphill Cycleway heading south and links toward planned future routes into Karori. At the city end it joins the Willis Street and Victoria Street cycleway network through the CBD, forming part of a growing connected grid.
Community engagement shaped the final design, with changes made in response to feedback including retention of short-stay parking in the shopping area and adjustments to bus stops. The project also highlights the hidden Waimāpihi Awa stream that runs beneath parts of the route.
The Paneke Pōneke Bike Network
Paneke Pōneke is Wellington City Council’s 10-year plan, adopted in March 2022, to create a safe, connected network of bike routes across the city. The Aro Valley route is designated a primary corridor within this network, supporting everyday trips for people of all ages and abilities by providing low-stress infrastructure.
The broader plan aims to make cycling a practical transport choice rather than an activity limited to confident riders, with connections to other routes including those in Thorndon and through Let’s Get Wellington Moving projects.
What Visitors Often Say
Cyclists appreciate the separated lanes that make the climb into the city feel much safer than sharing the road with cars. Many note the gentle gradient on Aro Street and the benefit of the reduced speed limit for mixing with local traffic.
Commuters value the direct link from western suburbs into the CBD and the way it connects with other cycleways for longer journeys. Some mention the added pedestrian improvements and how the route encourages more people to try cycling for short trips.
Where to Learn More
Aro Valley connections — WCC Transport Projects: Detailed project scope, design changes, timeline and rollout information.
Paneke Pōneke Bike Network Plan — Wellington City Council: Overview of the citywide strategy and how individual routes fit together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Aro Valley Cycleway start and end?
The main corridor runs along Aro Street and Raroa Road, connecting Aro Valley, Highbury and Kelburn with central Wellington and linking to other cycleways at the CBD end.
When was the route completed?
Work started in April 2023 in two stages and the project is now complete.
Is it suitable for beginners?
The separated uphill lane and 30 km/h zone make the route more accessible than mixed-traffic roads, though the overall climb remains noticeable for newer riders.
Does it connect to the Brooklyn Road Cycleway?
Yes, the Aro Valley route links directly to the Brooklyn Road Uphill Cycleway, extending the network south toward Brooklyn.
Are there parking changes along the route?
Some on-street parking was reallocated to resident or car-share spaces, with short-stay parking retained in the Aro Street shopping area.
Is the route suitable for e-bikes?
Yes, the separated infrastructure and lower speed limit work well for e-bike users commuting or riding recreationally.
Are there shared path sections?
Yes, paths through Aro Park and on Raroa Crescent have been widened to create shared paths for cyclists and pedestrians.
The Aro Valley Cycleway is part of the cycling tracks in Wellington. Also worth knowing: the Brooklyn Road Uphill Cycleway extends the network south, and the Willis Street and Victoria Street Cycleway connects through the CBD.
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