Last updated July 2026
The Akatarawa Road Loop is a popular long-distance road cycling route in the Wellington region, forming an approximately 100-kilometre circuit that links Upper Hutt with the Kāpiti Coast through the foothills of the Tararua Range.
Practical Information
| Total distance | ~100 km loop |
| Elevation gain | ~1,421 m |
| Start/Finish | Upper Hutt (or Waikanae) |
| Grade | Challenging — sustained climbing |
| Surface | Sealed road (narrow and winding on Akatarawa Road section) |
| Duration | 4–6 hours depending on pace |
| Cost | Free |
About the Route
Akatarawa Road leaves Upper Hutt heading northwest, climbing into the bush-covered foothills of the Tararua Range before descending to Waikanae on the Kāpiti Coast. The road is narrow and winding, making it unsuitable for large vehicles but well suited to cyclists seeking a quiet, scenic ride away from major highways.
Transmission Gully Motorway opened in 2022 and significantly reduced traffic volumes on Akatarawa Road, along with Paekakariki Hill Road and the old State Highway 1. This change has made the route more enjoyable for cyclists, with longer gaps between vehicles on an already low-traffic road.
The loop is typically started from Upper Hutt, climbing Akatarawa Road to Waikanae before returning via the Kāpiti Coast and State Highway 2. It can also be ridden in reverse. Fit road cyclists generally complete the circuit in 4–6 hours.
Along the Way
Staglands Wildlife Reserve and Café sits alongside Akatarawa Road and offers a popular stop for riders, with native birds, wildlife encounters and a café providing a convenient break mid-climb. The Jock Atkins Waterfall is another landmark visible from the road. At the Upper Hutt end, Karapoti Road provides access to the Karapoti Track, a well-known mountain biking route into Akatarawa Forest.
What Visitors Often Say
One of the best rides in the region, with native bush lining the climb, views over Kāpiti from the top, and noticeably quieter traffic since Transmission Gully opened.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington Akatarawa Forest: Details on the surrounding forest park, trails and access from the road corridor.
RideWithGPS Akatarawa Loop: Community route map with elevation profile and turn-by-turn navigation for the full loop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Akatarawa Road safe for cyclists?
Yes, it is a low-traffic road, especially since Transmission Gully opened. The road is narrow and winding, so ride predictably, remain visible and take extra care on blind corners.
How long is the full loop?
Around 100 kilometres with approximately 1,421 metres of climbing. Most fit road cyclists complete it in 4–6 hours.
Where does the loop start?
Typically from Upper Hutt, but it can be ridden from Waikanae or Paraparaumu on the Kāpiti Coast. Upper Hutt train station provides car-free access.
Are there food and water stops?
Staglands Wildlife Reserve has a café on the Akatarawa Road section. Waikanae township offers shops and cafés at the Kāpiti Coast end of the climb.
What is the road surface like?
Sealed throughout, but narrow and winding on the Akatarawa Road section. Both road bikes and gravel bikes are suitable.
Is there mountain biking in Akatarawa Forest?
Yes, Karapoti Road from the Upper Hutt end gives access to the Karapoti Track and other Akatarawa Forest trails. These are separate from the road cycling loop.
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