Last updated July 2026
The Mākara Beach Walkway is a popular 6.6km loop track on Wellington’s rugged west coast that climbs through farmland to offer close views of the West Wind turbine farm, sea cliffs, and historic gun emplacements before returning along the shoreline. The track starts and ends at Mākara Beach, a wild Tasman Sea beach 16km northwest of Wellington city centre. The full loop typically takes 3–4 hours and is managed by the Department of Conservation. Mākara Beach itself supports a relaxed day-trip experience with opportunities for coastal walks, fishing, and time on the sand.
Practical Information
| Location | Mākara Beach, 16km northwest of Wellington city |
| Drive time | Approximately 30 minutes from Wellington CBD via Karori |
| Distance | 6.6km loop |
| Walking time | 3–4 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate — steep sections and exposed ridgeline |
| Start and end | Mākara Beach carpark |
| Facilities | Toilets and parking at Mākara Beach; no facilities or water on the track |
| Cost | Free |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Dogs | Not allowed on the walkway |
About the Mākara Walkway
Mākara Beach lies on the exposed Tasman Sea coast west of Wellington and is reached via Karori and Mākara Road. The walkway loop explores farmland and coastal ridges above the beach, returning along the shoreline. The route passes an ancient Ngāti Ira pā site and the Fort Ōpau gun emplacements from the Second World War.
The West Wind wind farm, with its 62 turbines, dominates the ridgeline views. The turbines have operated since 2009 and generate up to 142.6MW of electricity. On clear days the track offers panoramic views from Kapiti Island in the north to the South Island in the south.
The track is exposed to strong winds, particularly northerlies, and the hilltops can experience gale-force conditions. Walkers should check the forecast, wear windproof clothing, and carry water and food as there is no drinkable water on the route. The concrete roofs of the gun emplacements are in poor condition and fenced areas should be avoided.
Mākara Beach Day Trip
Mākara Beach provides a scenic setting for a relaxed day trip from Wellington. The stony beach offers opportunities for fishing, diving, and boating from the small ramp near Mākara Stream. The area is sheltered from southerly winds but exposed to northerlies, making conditions variable.
Visitors often combine the walkway with time on the beach for picnics or simply enjoying the rugged coastal scenery. The nearby Makara Mountain Bike Park offers additional trails in the area for those interested in cycling. A small cafe operates near the beach for refreshments.
The beach is not patrolled by lifeguards and features strong surf in many conditions. Swimming is possible in sheltered spots during southerly winds but requires caution and is not recommended for inexperienced swimmers.
What Visitors Often Say
The walkway delivers impressive views of the wind turbines up close and sweeping coastal panoramas, though the ridgeline is often very windy. Many appreciate the combination of history, farmland, and wild beach scenery on a relatively short loop.
Mākara Beach is praised as a peaceful spot for a day out from the city, with good options for walking, fishing, or relaxing by the sea. Reviewers note the dramatic setting and the sense of escaping urban Wellington in under an hour.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation — Mākara Walkway: official track description, access details, and safety information.
Wellington City Council — Mākara Walkway: track overview, directions, and local access notes.
Wellington City Council — Mākara Beach: beach facilities, activities, and access information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Mākara Beach from Wellington?
Mākara Beach is 16km northwest of Wellington city centre, approximately a 30-minute drive via Karori and Mākara Road.
How long does the walkway take?
Allow 3–4 hours to complete the 6.6km loop at a comfortable pace.
Is there public transport to Mākara Beach?
No regular public bus service reaches Mākara Beach. A private vehicle is required.
Are dogs allowed on the walkway?
Dogs are not permitted on the Mākara Walkway.
Can I swim at Mākara Beach?
Swimming is possible in sheltered areas during southerly winds, but the beach has strong surf, no lifeguard patrol, and is not recommended for inexperienced swimmers.
What are the WW2 gun emplacements?
The concrete structures are part of Fort Ōpau, built during the Second World War as part of Wellington’s coastal defence network. They sit on a historic Ngāti Ira pā site.
Is the track suitable for children?
Older children comfortable with hills and wind may manage the walk. It is not suitable for young children, prams, or those sensitive to exposure.
What other activities are available near Mākara Beach?
Fishing, diving, boating, and mountain biking at the nearby Makara Mountain Bike Park are popular options for a day trip.
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