Last updated May 2026
East Harbour Regional Park covers the eastern hills and coastline of Wellington Harbour, stretching from the Eastbourne bays south to Pencarrow Head and beyond. It has a wide range of walking tracks through native bush and along dramatic coastal cliff-tops, including the route to Pencarrow Lighthouse — New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse. Access is free.
Practical Information
| Location | Multiple entry points: Muritai Road, Eastbourne; Burdan’s Gate (507 Muritai Road); Days Bay; York Bay; Lowry Bay |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open year-round |
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Car parks at main entrances, picnic areas (Burdan’s Gate), toilets, water at Days Bay / Williams Park |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About the Park
East Harbour Regional Park sits on the opposite side of Wellington Harbour from the city — accessible by road through Eastbourne or by ferry across the harbour from Queens Wharf to Days Bay. The park’s character shifts dramatically depending on where you are: sheltered native forest fills the gullies, while tracks along the coastal ridgeline offer open views across Cook Strait and back to Wellington city.
The park protects a large area of relatively undisturbed bush close to the city. Ancient trees, native birds, and — at some points above Days Bay — glow-worms make it a distinctive natural area. The range of tracks means there are options for a short walk of an hour or a full-day traverse.
Key Tracks
The Pencarrow Coastal Track follows the coastline south from Burdan’s Gate to Pencarrow Head and the historic lighthouse — New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse, built in 1859. It is a straightforward out-and-back route with harbour and Cook Strait views throughout. Lake Kahongapiripiri, at the south end of the park, is a small coastal lake with a historic pā site and is accessible via the southern coastal tracks. Shorter walks around the Eastbourne bays — including the Kowhai Street Track climbing to views over the harbour — give access to forest and elevated views within an hour from the road.
“East Harbour Regional Park is truly incredible — hiking along Pencarrow Coastal Track up to the lighthouse and to Lake Kahongapiripiri where the nature is absolutely amazing.” — TripAdvisor visitor
Getting There
By road, Eastbourne is reached via the Hutt Valley motorway and the Eastbourne road along the harbour’s eastern shore — about 30 minutes from central Wellington. The Days Bay ferry (run by East by West Ferries) crosses from Queens Wharf to Days Bay in approximately 30 minutes, providing a scenic alternative that is popular in summer. Check East by West Ferries for current timetables and fares.
Where to Learn More
East by West Ferries — Days Bay ferry timetables and fares from Queens Wharf.
FAQ
Where is East Harbour Regional Park?
On the eastern side of Wellington Harbour, in and around the Eastbourne bays. Main entry points are along Muritai Road, Eastbourne, with Burdan’s Gate being the main trailhead for southern coastal tracks.
How do I get there without a car?
The Days Bay ferry crosses from Queens Wharf in central Wellington to Days Bay in around 30 minutes. From Days Bay, several park tracks are accessible on foot.
What is the Pencarrow Lighthouse walk?
A coastal out-and-back walk from Burdan’s Gate to Pencarrow Head — New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse, built in 1859. The track follows the coastline with harbour views throughout.
What is Lake Kahongapiripiri?
A small coastal lake at the southern end of the park, with a historic Māori pā site on its shores. Accessible via the southern coastal tracks from Burdan’s Gate.
Is the park suitable for families?
Yes for shorter walks — the tracks around the Eastbourne bays and lower gullies are accessible with children. The longer coastal tracks to Pencarrow require more fitness and preparation.
Are there glow-worms?
Glow-worms have been reported above Days Bay in some of the gully areas. These are most visible at night — check locally for current viewing spots.
Also in the Wellington region: Belmont Regional Park on the Hutt Valley side offers walking and mountain biking on the western hills. See Wellington Parks and Reserves for the full range of options.
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