The Eastern Walkway traces the southern tip of the Miramar Peninsula between Tarakena Bay and Pass of Branda — a short but varied coastal track with harbour views, regenerating native bush, signposted Māori historic sites, and a war memorial that gives the walk an unexpectedly reflective quality. At 2.5km it’s one of Wellington’s more accessible tracks, though exposed sections make it best suited to a settled day.
Practical Information
| Distance | 2.5km one-way |
| Walk time | About 1.5 hours one-way |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Surface | Mainly gravel; some steep exposed sections |
| Access points | Tarakena Bay or Pass of Branda |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | On lead |
| Cycling | Not permitted |
About the Track
The walkway runs along the ridge and coastal edge at the southern end of the Miramar Peninsula, with views across Wellington Harbour to the city and the hills beyond. Native bush has been gradually regenerating along the track corridor, and there are several signposted Māori historic sites along the route — the area was of significance to Māori prior to European arrival.
At the southern end of the peninsula, the Atatürk Memorial overlooks the harbour. The memorial is named for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the commander of Ottoman forces at Gallipoli who later became the first president of modern Turkey. It was established as a place of remembrance for all soldiers who fell at Gallipoli in 1915, on both sides of the conflict. The location on the harbour headland gives it a contemplative quality — particularly on still days.
Connecting Tracks
The Eastern Walkway connects at Pass of Branda to Oruaiti Reserve, which continues coastal walking along the lower Miramar Peninsula past an ancient pā site and old gun emplacements. The two tracks can be combined into a longer half-day route.
What Visitors Say
“Beautiful harbour views and a nicely maintained track. The Atatürk memorial is a really lovely and reflective spot — I didn’t expect to be so moved by it.” — Google Reviews
“Short and easy but very scenic. We spotted a few native birds in the bush section. Great walk for an hour or two.” — AllTrails
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Eastern Walkway has the official track page with access, length and conditions.
WellingtonNZ — Eastern Walkway includes a trail overview, maps and practical visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Eastern Walkway?
2.5km one-way, taking about 1.5 hours to walk.
Where does it start?
At either Tarakena Bay or Pass of Branda on the southern Miramar Peninsula.
What is the Atatürk Memorial?
A monument at the southern end of the track, honouring soldiers from both sides who fell at Gallipoli in 1915. It is named for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Ottoman commander at Gallipoli and later first president of Turkey.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on lead.
Can I mountain bike the track?
No, mountain biking is not permitted.
Is it suitable for children?
The track is manageable for older children, though some sections are steep and exposed to wind.
What tracks connect to the Eastern Walkway?
The Eastern Walkway connects to Oruaiti Reserve Track at Pass of Branda, allowing a longer combined route.
Is there parking?
Street parking is available at Tarakena Bay and at Pass of Branda.
The Wellington Walking Tracks hub lists all walking routes across the Wellington region. The Oruaiti Reserve Track connects directly from the Eastern Walkway at Pass of Branda and continues around the Miramar Peninsula past a historic pā site and gun emplacements. For a longer coastal walk further south, the Southern Walkway runs from the Town Belt to Island Bay along Wellington’s south coast ridge.