The City to Sea Walkway runs 12km from Bolton Street Memorial Park near Parliament to Shorland Park at Island Bay, linking Wellington’s political heart with the south coast through the Botanic Garden, Aro Valley, and the Town Belt. It is one of the classic Wellington city walks — varied in terrain, rich in history, and finishing at the sea.
Practical Information
| Start | Bolton Street Memorial Park, Thorndon (near Parliament) |
|---|---|
| End | Shorland Park, Island Bay — return via Metlink Route 1 bus |
| Distance | 12km one way |
| Walking time | 4–5 hours one way |
| Difficulty | Moderate — varied terrain with some climbing |
| Facilities | Toilets and cafés at Botanic Garden; Island Bay end has café and facilities |
| Cost | Free |
| Open | Year-round, any time |
About the City to Sea Walkway
The City to Sea Walkway was designed as a green corridor linking the inner city to the south coast through public reserves and the Town Belt. The route passes through a surprising variety of environments within a compact urban area — from the historic headstones of Bolton Street Memorial Park (Wellington’s earliest cemetery, established 1840) through the Botanic Garden, Kelburn Park, the Victoria University of Wellington campus, funky Aro Valley, Highbury Reserve, and eventually the open ridge above Berhampore and Kingston before descending to Island Bay.
The walk is very well signposted throughout and can be completed in either direction. Starting at the parliamentary end and finishing at Island Bay gives a natural narrative — city to sea — and allows a bus return from Island Bay.
Key Highlights Along the Route
The Bolton Street Memorial Park at the start contains some of the oldest graves in Wellington, dating to the earliest days of European settlement. Walking through the cemetery under mature trees is a quiet and thoughtful beginning to the walk.
The route then passes through the Wellington Botanic Garden — 25 hectares of native forest, rose gardens and sculpted grounds above the city. This is a good place to stop for a coffee at the Picnic Café before continuing south. From Kelburn the walk passes the Victoria University campus and descends into Aro Valley, a characterful inner suburb of weatherboard houses, independent cafés and a strong community identity.
The upper sections of the walkway above Berhampore and Kingston offer open ridge views across the southern suburbs and out to Cook Strait before the track descends to the coast at Island Bay.
What visitors say
“A really satisfying walk. It takes you through so many different parts of the city — the cemetery, the botanic garden, Aro Valley, and then up into the Town Belt before finishing at the coast. You feel like you’ve actually explored Wellington by the end.” — AllTrails review
Where to Learn More
Useful resources
- Wellington City Council — City to Sea Walkway: official track description, map download and access details
- WellingtonNZ — City to Sea Walkway: visitor overview including route highlights and practical tips
- AllTrails — City to Sea Walkway: trail map, elevation profile and visitor reviews
- Wikipedia — City to Sea Walkway: background history and route overview
FAQ
Where does the City to Sea Walkway start?
At Bolton Street Memorial Park in Thorndon, a few minutes walk from Parliament and Wellington Railway Station. The walkway is well-signposted from the cemetery entrance.
How long does it take?
Most walkers complete it in 4–5 hours at a comfortable pace with stops. Allow extra time to explore the Botanic Garden section.
How do I get back from Island Bay?
The Metlink Route 1 bus runs regularly from Island Bay to Wellington CBD. Check metlink.org.nz for current timetables.
Is the walkway suitable for all fitness levels?
It is a moderately challenging full-day walk with some climbing. Reasonably fit walkers who are comfortable with a half-day outing will find it manageable.
Can I do it in stages?
Yes — the walkway has several intermediate access points where you can join or leave. The Botanic Garden section, for example, can be done as a standalone visit.
Are there cafés along the way?
Yes — the Botanic Garden has the Picnic Café and the Cable Car café. Aro Valley has several independent cafés nearby. Island Bay has options at the finishing end.
For more walking in Wellington, see the Wellington Walking Tracks hub. The Southern Walkway offers another south coast traverse, covering 10.3km from Oriental Parade to Island Bay.
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