Last updated July 2026
East Harbour Regional Park covers the eastern hills and coastline of Wellington Harbour, stretching from the Eastbourne bays south to Pencarrow Head and Baring Head. It offers a wide range of walking tracks through native bush and along coastal cliff-tops, including the route to Pencarrow Lighthouse, New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse. The park comprises three main areas: the Northern Forest, Parangarahu Lakes, and Baring Head Ōrua-pouanui. Access is free and the park is open year-round to foot traffic.
Practical Information
| Location | Eastbourne, Pencarrow Head and Wainuiomata Coast, Lower Hutt. Multiple entry points including Muritai Road, Burdan’s Gate, Days Bay, York Bay, Lowry Bay |
| Hours | Open year-round to foot traffic |
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Car parks at main entrances, picnic areas, toilets at Days Bay and Williams Park |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
| Activities | Walking, mountain biking, dog walking (with restrictions), swimming (limited areas), horse riding (permit required in some areas) |
About East Harbour Regional Park
East Harbour Regional Park sits on the opposite side of Wellington Harbour from the city and is 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 the area: sheltered native forest fills the gullies of the Northern Forest, 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 glow-worms in some gully areas above Days Bay 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.
The park includes the Parangarahu Lakes Area, which is co-managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council and Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust for Taranaki Whānui. Baring Head Ōrua-pouanui adds dramatic coastal landscapes and historical sites.
Walking and Hiking
The Pencarrow Coastal Track follows the coastline south from Burdan’s Gate to Pencarrow Head and the historic lighthouse. It is a straightforward out-and-back route with harbour and Cook Strait views. The lakes and lighthouse are accessible only by foot or bike along the metalled Pencarrow Coast Road.
Lake Kohangapiripiri is a small coastal lake at the southern end of the park with a historic pā site nearby. It is reached via the southern coastal tracks. Shorter walks around the Eastbourne bays, including tracks from Kowhai Street, provide access to forest and elevated views within an hour from the road. The Butterfly Creek valley is a popular picnic spot in the Northern Forest.
Mountain Biking and Cycling
Mountain biking is available in all three areas. From the southern end of Eastbourne, riders can reach Parangarahu Lakes and Pencarrow Lighthouse along the coast road, with intermediate trails in the hills above the lakes. In the Northern Forest, popular routes start from Wainuiomata Hill Road and include the Lowry trig, Zigzag, and Rata Ridge tracks. Baring Head offers challenging terrain with coastal views.
Other Activities and Access
Dogs are welcome on leash in the Northern Forest but are not allowed in Baring Head or the Parangarahu Lakes area, with seasonal restrictions on the Pencarrow Road. Swimming is possible in Butterfly Creek but not recommended in the sea south of Burdan’s Gate or in Gollan’s Stream. Horse riding requires a permit at Baring Head. The Days Bay ferry provides a scenic 30-minute crossing from Queens Wharf, and the drive from central Wellington via the Hutt Valley takes about 30 minutes.
What Visitors Often Say
There are many tracks to choose from around the Eastbourne bays, all offering something different with beautiful native bush, great harbour views and amazing birdsong.
East Harbour Regional Park offers rewarding hiking along the Pencarrow Coastal Track to the lighthouse and Lake Kohangapiripiri, where the nature and coastal scenery stand out.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington Regional Council: Official park page with track maps, activity details, and current notices.
East by West Ferries: Current Days Bay ferry timetables and fares from Queens Wharf.
Heritage New Zealand: Details on the history and significance of Pencarrow Lighthouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is East Harbour Regional Park?
On the eastern side of Wellington Harbour in and around the Eastbourne bays, extending south to Pencarrow Head and Baring Head. Main entry points are along Muritai Road in Eastbourne, with Burdan’s Gate as the primary 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. Buses also serve the Eastbourne area.
What is the Pencarrow Lighthouse walk?
A coastal out-and-back walk or bike ride from Burdan’s Gate to Pencarrow Head. The lighthouse, New Zealand’s first permanent one, was lit on 1 January 1859 and offers harbour and Cook Strait views.
What is Lake Kohangapiripiri?
A small coastal lake at the southern end of the park with a historic Māori pā site nearby. It is 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. Longer coastal tracks to Pencarrow require more fitness and preparation.
Are there glow-worms?
Glow-worms have been reported in some gully areas above Days Bay. These are most visible at night. Check locally for current viewing spots.
Can I take my dog?
Dogs are welcome on a leash in the Northern Forest but are not allowed in Baring Head or the Parangarahu Lakes area. Seasonal restrictions apply on the Pencarrow Road.
Are there mountain biking opportunities?
Yes. Trails range from coastal rides to the lighthouse to intermediate and challenging routes in the Northern Forest hills and at Baring Head.
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