Last updated July 2026
Charles Plimmer Park is a hillside reserve on the lower slopes of Mount Victoria in Wellington, offering grassed areas, harbour views, and easy access to walking and mountain biking trails. The park features a large commemorative tree site at the northern end with seats that catch the late afternoon sun, plus a flat field at the southern end. It is free to visit and open during daylight hours, serving as a gateway to Mount Victoria tracks and the Southern Walkway. Charles Plimmer, son of early settler John Plimmer, bequeathed income from his estate to the city upon his death in 1930 for beautification purposes. The reserve provides a green space with panoramic city and harbour outlooks just a short walk from Oriental Bay and Courtenay Place.
Practical Information
| Location | Lower slopes of Mount Victoria, entrances at top of Majoribanks Street or Palliser Road |
| Hours | Open daily during daylight hours |
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Grassed areas, commemorative trees, seating, walking tracks, limited parking on surrounding streets |
| Dogs | Off-lead exercise area |
| Accessibility | Short sealed path off Palliser Road; southern end above steps at Majoribanks Street |
About Charles Plimmer Park
Charles Plimmer Park occupies a hillside position overlooking Wellington city and the harbour. The northern section includes a large grassed commemorative tree site with seating positioned for afternoon sun, while the southern end provides a flat open field. An easy walking track connects the two areas, making the park suitable for casual strolls and relaxation with views.
The park serves as an entry point to the broader Mount Victoria trail network. Tracks from the Majoribanks Street entrance link to the Hataitai to City Walkway and continue to the Southern Walkway at Alexandra Road, as well as routes to the Mount Victoria lookout and summit. Limited parking is available on Majoribanks Street and Palliser Road.
Charles Plimmer was the son of businessman and early settler John Plimmer. Upon his death in 1930, he left the income from his substantial estate to Wellington City Council specifically for beautifying the city. The reserve honours this legacy through its maintained green spaces and plantings.
Walking Tracks
An easy sealed and unsealed track links the northern and southern sections of the park. The Majoribanks Street entrance provides direct access to the Hataitai to City Walkway, which joins the Southern Walkway. Additional paths lead uphill to the Mount Victoria lookout and summit, offering options for short or longer outings with city and harbour views.
Mountain Biking
The park functions as a start and end point for many trails through Mount Victoria. Riders can access a range of tracks suitable for different skill levels, with connections to the wider town belt network. Information on specific routes and conditions is available through Wellington City Council resources on Mount Victoria.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the park as a convenient starting point for Mount Victoria walks and rides, praising the harbour views from the grassed areas and the off-lead dog space.
Many note the easy access from nearby suburbs like Oriental Bay and Courtenay Place, along with the peaceful setting for picnics or short breaks with city outlooks.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Charles Plimmer Park: official page with location details, access points, facilities, and history.
Wellington City Council — Mount Victoria: information on trails, mountain biking, and the surrounding reserve network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Charles Plimmer Park?
On the lower slopes of Mount Victoria in Wellington, with entrances at the top of Majoribanks Street or Palliser Road, a short walk from Oriental Bay or Courtenay Place.
Is Charles Plimmer Park free?
Yes, the park is free and open during daylight hours.
Who was Charles Plimmer?
Charles Plimmer was the son of early settler John Plimmer. He died in 1930 and left the income from his estate to Wellington City Council for city beautification.
Can I bring my dog to Charles Plimmer Park?
Yes, the park is an off-lead dog exercise area.
What walking options are available?
An easy track links the park sections, with connections to the Hataitai to City Walkway, Southern Walkway, and paths to the Mount Victoria lookout and summit.
Is mountain biking allowed?
Yes, the park is a start and end point for many Mount Victoria trails.
What facilities are available?
The park offers grassed areas, commemorative trees, seating with harbour views, and limited street parking nearby.
Is the park accessible?
A short sealed path is available off Palliser Road; the southern end is above steps at Majoribanks Street.
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