Johnston Hill Reserve is a bush reserve in the Karori area of Wellington offering a network of walking tracks through regenerating native forest, with views of Wellington Harbour from the upper sections. The reserve connects to a wider network of western suburbs bush tracks — including links toward Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush — making it a useful part of the Karori area bush walking network. It is free to enter and popular with walkers and dog owners from the surrounding suburbs.
Practical Information
| Location | Karori area, Wellington — access from Hatton Street or Fletcher’s Lookout |
|---|---|
| Getting There | Drive to Karori; street parking at Hatton Street or near Fletcher’s Lookout |
| Parking | Free street parking at access points |
| Entry | Free |
| Hours | Open at all times |
| Facilities | Public toilet near Karori Cemetery; no facilities within the reserve |
| Dogs | On-leash — check Wellington City Council bylaws for current rules |
| Track options | Loop tracks ranging from approximately 2km to 5km |
About Johnston Hill Reserve
Johnston Hill Reserve is part of the network of bush reserves that covers the ridgelines and gullies of Wellington’s western suburbs. The bush is largely regenerating native forest — tawa, kohekohe and tree ferns — with the character of an established second-growth forest rather than the ancient stands found at Otari-Wilton’s Bush. The reserve connects on its upper edges toward other western suburbs reserves, providing longer walking options that combine Johnston Hill with adjacent bush.
The reserve sits within the range of native birds that have spread from the Zealandia ecosanctuary in Karori — kākā and kererū are regularly seen and heard, along with tūī and pīwakawaka (fantail). The upper sections of the reserve offer views toward Wellington Harbour and Hawkins Hill.
Walking Routes
The track network through Johnston Hill offers several loop options, from a short circuit of around 2 kilometres to longer combinations of approximately 5 kilometres. The terrain is hilly with some steeper sections, but the tracks are well marked and maintained. Most routes involve some elevation gain before levelling out on the ridgeline, where the views open up. The tracks are suitable for adults and older children with reasonable fitness.
Fletcher’s Lookout provides a viewpoint near the reserve that looks out toward Wellington Harbour and the city — this is accessible by short walk from the road and does not require completing the full reserve loop.
Wellington City Council parks and reserves lists Johnston Hill Reserve alongside track information for the wider Karori bush network. Check the council website for current track conditions.
FAQ
Is Johnston Hill Reserve free?
Yes — entry is free and the reserve is open at all times.
How long are the walks at Johnston Hill Reserve?
Loop options range from approximately 2km to 5km. Most circuits take 1–2 hours depending on pace and route chosen.
Are dogs allowed at Johnston Hill Reserve?
Dogs are permitted on-leash. Check Wellington City Council’s current bylaws for any specific restrictions.
Is there parking at Johnston Hill Reserve?
Free street parking is available at Hatton Street and near Fletcher’s Lookout. There is no dedicated car park.
Can I connect Johnston Hill Reserve to other bush tracks?
Yes — the reserve connects to the wider Karori bush network, with track links toward Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush and other western suburbs reserves.
What birds can I see at Johnston Hill Reserve?
Kākā, kererū, tūī and fantail are commonly seen, benefiting from the Zealandia halo effect across Karori’s bush reserves.
For more Wellington bush walks, see Wellington Parks and Reserves. Otari-Wilton’s Bush is the nearby native plant reserve that connects with the Karori bush network.