Last updated May 2026
The Wainuiomata Hill Road separates the Hutt Valley from the Wainuiomata basin, and a purpose-built shared cycling and walking path — Te Hikoi Ararewa — runs alongside the 80 km/h road, giving cyclists and walkers a safe, separated route over the hill. The climb rises 90 metres over 1.7 kilometres through open hillside with views over Wellington Harbour and the Hutt Valley, and forms part of the Wainuiomata Connector Ride on New Zealand’s Heartland Rides network.
Practical Information
| Location | Wainuiomata Hill Road, between Gracefield and Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt |
|---|---|
| Shared path name | Te Hikoi Ararewa (Wainuiomata Hill Shared Path) |
| Path opened | 2019 |
| Climb | 90m elevation over 1.7km |
| Surface | Sealed, separated from traffic |
| Gradient | Moderate to steep — up to 20% on the Gracefield side |
| Cost | Free |
About the Route
Before Te Hikoi Ararewa opened in 2019, cyclists attempting the Wainuiomata Hill had to share the road with fast-moving traffic on an 80 km/h corridor. The dedicated shared path changed that — a sealed, separated track running alongside the road that gives cyclists and pedestrians a safe route over the hill without mixing with vehicles.
The climb from the Gracefield side is steeper — gradients can reach 20% — and requires a lower gear. The Wainuiomata side approach is more gradual. The summit rewards the effort with views over Wellington Harbour, the Hutt Valley and across to the Remutaka Range.
The Wainuiomata Hill Road forms a key link in the Wainuiomata Connector Ride, a New Zealand Cycle Trail Heartland Ride that connects the Hutt Valley to Wainuiomata and onward to the East Harbour Regional Park coastline. This multi-day route can be combined with the Pencarrow Coast Road for a scenic loop.
What Visitors Say
“The new shared path makes a huge difference — finally able to ride over the hill without getting buzzed by cars. Views from the top are worth it.” — AllTrails review, Wainuiomata Hill Shared Path
Where to Learn More
Wainuiomata Connector Ride — WellingtonNZ covers the full Heartland Ride route that includes the hill road.
Wainuiomata Connector Ride — NZ Cycle Trail has the official Heartland Ride information and maps.
Cycle Trails — Hutt City Council lists all cycle trails in Lower Hutt including the hill shared path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dedicated cycling path on Wainuiomata Hill Road?
Yes — Te Hikoi Ararewa (the Wainuiomata Hill Shared Path) opened in 2019 and runs alongside the road, giving cyclists and walkers a separated, safe route over the hill.
How steep is the climb?
The path rises 90 metres over 1.7 kilometres. The Gracefield side is steeper, with gradients up to 20%. The Wainuiomata side is more gradual.
Is it suitable for beginners?
The steeper Gracefield section is challenging for beginners. Riders with some fitness will manage it; e-bikes make it much more accessible.
What is the Wainuiomata Connector Ride?
A NZ Cycle Trail Heartland Ride that uses the hill road as a key link, connecting the Hutt Valley to Wainuiomata and the East Harbour Regional Park coastline.
Are there views from the top?
Yes — the summit offers views over Wellington Harbour, the Hutt Valley floor and the Remutaka Range to the north.
How do I access the path?
The shared path starts from Gracefield on the Lower Hutt side and from Wainuiomata on the east side. Access from Hutt Road or the Hutt River Trail to the Gracefield start.
The Wainuiomata Hill Road is part of the cycling tracks in Wellington. Connecting trails: the Pencarrow Coast Road is accessible from the Wainuiomata side via East Harbour Regional Park, and the Hutt River Trail provides a flat route through Lower Hutt to the Gracefield access point.
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