The Brooklyn Wind Turbine track runs through Waimapihi Reserve from the top of Aro Street to the wind turbine on the hilltop above Brooklyn, climbing to 320m with views across Wellington City and Harbour. Most of the track runs under tree cover, following the line of Zealandia’s fenceline — making it good territory for native birdlife. It’s a reliable 30–40 minute climb to the turbine for a consistent city viewpoint, with options to extend towards Polhill Reserve or onwards to the South Coast.
Practical Information
| Start point | Waimapihi Reserve entrance, top of Aro Street, Aro Valley |
| Walk time to turbine | About 30–40 minutes from Aro Street |
| Elevation | 320m at the turbine |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate (consistent uphill to turbine) |
| Cost | Free |
| Cycling | One-way uphill only |
| Dogs | On lead (alongside Zealandia fenceline) |
About the Track
The track climbs steadily from Aro Valley through regenerating native bush in Waimapihi Reserve. Most of the route runs through tree cover, providing some shelter from Wellington’s wind during the ascent. The track follows the outer fence of Zealandia / Te Māra a Tāne, which means native birdlife — particularly kākā, tūī, and kererū — is often visible or audible along the walk.
At the top, the Brooklyn Wind Turbine stands on the exposed hilltop. Wellington’s first operational commercial wind turbine, it has been generating electricity since 1993 and is one of the city’s recognisable landmarks. An information shelter with steps and a ramp sits next to the turbine, and views open over the city, harbour and the surrounding hills. On clear days the view extends south towards the South Coast and the Makara wind farm area.
Extensions from the Turbine
From the turbine, several route options extend the walk. The Tip Track continues south into Te Kopahou Reserve, eventually reaching the South Coast near Red Rocks. The turbine can also be approached as part of a longer loop connecting Polhill Reserve and the wider Brooklyn hill network.
What Visitors Say
“A great walk from the city — you hear native birds all the way up and the views from the turbine over Wellington are brilliant.” — AllTrails
“Easy enough for a lunch break walk from central Wellington. The bush cover makes it feel surprisingly remote and we heard kākā the whole way.” — Google Reviews
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Brooklyn Wind Turbine Route has the official track page with distance, access and route details.
WellingtonNZ — Brooklyn Wind Turbine covers the walk with a visitor overview and information on trail extensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Brooklyn Wind Turbine track start?
At the Waimapihi Reserve entrance at the top of Aro Street in Aro Valley, Wellington.
How long does it take to reach the turbine?
About 30–40 minutes from the Aro Street entrance.
How high is the turbine?
The turbine sits at 320m elevation above sea level.
Is there native birdlife along the track?
Yes — the track runs along Zealandia’s outer fenceline, and native birds including kākā, tūī and kererū are commonly heard and seen along the way.
Can I cycle the track?
Cycling is permitted one-way uphill only.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on lead — the track runs alongside Zealandia’s fenceline.
Can I continue to the South Coast from the turbine?
Yes — the Tip Track continues south through Te Kopahou Reserve and eventually reaches the South Coast near Red Rocks.
Is there parking?
The track is accessible from the city on foot via Aro Street. Street parking is available in Aro Valley.
The Wellington Walking Tracks hub lists all walking routes across the Wellington region. The Polhill Reserve Tracks connect to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine area and offer native bush walking in the same hill network. The Red Rocks Coastal Walk on the South Coast is reachable via the Tip Track extension from the turbine.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.