The Remutaka Cycle Trail is a 122-kilometre Great Ride of New Zealand stretching from Petone Wharf on Wellington Harbour, over the historic Remutaka Rail Trail, and out to the remote surf beaches of the Wairarapa coast. One of New Zealand’s official Ngā Haerenga Great Rides, it combines flat harbour paths, a challenging mountain crossing through regenerating native bush, and a dramatic finish along an exposed coastal road. Most riders take two to three days to complete the full trail.
Practical Information
| Distance | 122 km total (one way) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2–3 days |
| Grade | Intermediate (challenging over Remutaka Summit) |
| Start | Petone Wharf, Lower Hutt |
| End | Orongorongo Station, Wairarapa coast |
| Sections | 4 (see below) |
| Cost | Trail is free; accommodation costs vary |
| Official site | remutakacycletrail.co.nz |
About the Trail
The Remutaka Cycle Trail begins at Petone Wharf on Wellington Harbour and heads north through Lower Hutt along the Hutt River before climbing into the Remutaka Range via the historic Remutaka Incline — a route once used by the famous Fell locomotive, the only railway engine in the world to use a centre rail to climb steep grades. The incline is now a well-formed trail through native bush, rising over the summit before descending to the Wairarapa.
From the Wairarapa side, the trail continues south along the wild Palliser Bay and Wairarapa coast, passing through remote farmland and coastal bluffs to finish at Orongorongo Station on the rugged shores facing Cook Strait.
The Four Sections
Section 1 — Petone to Maymorn: 35 km. Flat to gently rolling, following the Hutt River north through Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt to Maymorn. The most accessible section, suitable for families and beginners.
Section 2 — Maymorn to Cross Creek: 25 km. The mountain crossing. The trail climbs the historic Remutaka Incline through dense native bush to the summit, then descends steeply to Cross Creek on the Wairarapa side. The most challenging section of the trail.
Section 3 — Cross Creek to Ocean Beach: approx. 42 km. The trail winds through Wairarapa farmland and along the coast to Ocean Beach, with big open skies and remote coastline.
Section 4 — Ocean Beach to Orongorongo: 18 km. The final coastal stretch, finishing at Orongorongo Station on an exposed and dramatic stretch of Wairarapa coast.
History on the Trail
The Remutaka Incline section follows the formation of the original Wairarapa Line railway, which used the Fell braking system to negotiate the steep gradient from 1878 to 1955. When the Remutaka Rail Tunnel opened in 1955 — making the climb unnecessary — the old incline fell out of use and eventually became a walking and cycling trail. Interpretive signs along the incline tell the story of the railway, the workers who built it, and the communities that relied on it.
What Visitors Say
“The descent from the Remutaka Summit into the Wairarapa is one of the best things I’ve done on a bike — native bush the whole way, then suddenly the valley opens up below you.” — trail review, remutakacycletrail.co.nz
Where to Learn More
Remutaka Cycle Trail — official site covers trail conditions, accommodation options along the route and shuttle services.
New Zealand Cycle Trail — Remutaka gives the official Great Ride grading, maps and booking information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Remutaka Cycle Trail take?
Most riders complete it in 2–3 days. Fit riders can push sections 1–2 in a single long day, but the coastal sections reward a slower pace.
Where does it start?
The official start is Petone Wharf in Lower Hutt, easily accessible from central Wellington.
How hard is the Remutaka Incline?
The incline climb is the most demanding part of the trail — a sustained ascent through native bush. E-bikes make it manageable; fit riders on standard bikes will find it a solid workout.
Is accommodation available along the route?
Yes — there are lodges, holiday parks and homestays at key stops. The official trail website lists current accommodation options.
Can I do just part of the trail?
Yes. Section 1 (Petone to Maymorn) is flat and family-friendly as a standalone ride. The Remutaka Incline section (Section 2) is also popular as a day trip with a shuttle back.
Are shuttles available?
Several operators offer vehicle and bike shuttles, particularly for the Remutaka Summit crossing. Check the official trail website for current providers.
The Remutaka Cycle Trail is part of the cycling tracks in Wellington. The trail’s lower section follows the Hutt River Trail north through Lower Hutt. For shorter rides closer to the city, the Wellington Waterfront Shared Path is flat and accessible from Petone.