Last updated July 2026
Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park is Wellington’s premier mountain bike destination, featuring over 50 kilometres of singletrack on the western edge of the city above Karori. The park sits within 250 hectares of regenerating native bush and offers trails ranging from gentle green routes suitable for beginners to demanding black and double-black technical terrain. A 72-metre suspension bridge stands out as one of its signature features, crossing a deep gully and providing access to popular routes. Managed by Wellington City Council in partnership with the volunteer Mākara Peak Supporters, the park is free to use, open year-round and accessible via multiple entry points.
Practical Information
| Location | Mākara Peak, above Karori, Wellington |
| Main entrance | End of South Karori Road (car park and trailhead) |
| Other entrances | End of St Albans Ave, end of Alington Road, Mākara Saddle |
| Trails | Over 50 km of singletrack |
| Difficulty range | Green (beginner) to double black (expert) |
| Key features | 72 m suspension bridge, skills area, multiple loops, panoramic views |
| Cost | Free |
| Managed by | Wellington City Council and Mākara Peak Supporters |
| Official site | makarapeak.bike |
About Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park
Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park occupies steep, bush-clad terrain on the western ridgeline of Wellington, forming part of the city’s Outer Green Belt. The park was established in 1998 and has grown through the efforts of the Mākara Peak Supporters, a volunteer group founded that year to plan, build and maintain trails while restoring the area to native forest. Volunteers have planted thousands of native trees including kahikatea, rimu and tawa, and maintain extensive pest control to support birdlife such as kiwi.
The trail network climbs from the South Karori Road car park into native bush and onto ridge tops offering views across Wellington Harbour, Cook Strait and the upper South Island. At over 50 km, the system provides enough variety for repeat visits, with clearly graded trails from smooth green beginner routes and a skills area near the entrance through to technical black and double-black descents featuring roots, rocks, drops and berms. The 72-metre suspension bridge forms a highlight on intermediate routes such as Upswing.
Wellington City Council and the Supporters have developed a master plan to guide management and development over the next decade. The park received the Recreation Aotearoa Outstanding Park Award in 2024 for its trail network and natural environment. Some trails are bike-priority only, while others are shared; signage indicates suitability for walking and running.
Cycling at Mākara Peak
Cycling is the primary activity at Mākara Peak, with trails designed for riders of all ages and abilities. Easy-gradient climbing trails such as T4, Koru, Sally Ally and Upswing provide access to the summit and connect to flowing descents including Peak Flow and North Face. The lower sections suit beginners and families, while upper trails offer intermediate to advanced challenges. E-bikes are permitted on designated trails; check current rules on the official website. The park forms part of Wellington’s broader cycling network and links to the Skyline Walkway for longer rides.
Walking and Conservation
Walkers and runners are welcome, with well-formed tracks leading to the summit in around one hour from several entrances. The shortest route follows the four-wheel-drive Snake Charmer track from St Albans Ave. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife. Conservation efforts focus on native forest restoration and pest management, resulting in flourishing bird populations. The park’s 250 hectares contribute significantly to Wellington’s green belt and biodiversity goals.
Getting There and Access
The main car park is at the end of South Karori Road, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from central Wellington. Additional parking is available at Mākara Saddle. The area is served by bus from the city centre, though the final approach involves some climbing. Other trailheads include the ends of St Albans Avenue and Alington Road, plus the Mākara Road summit where the park meets the Skyline Walkway. The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the park’s proximity to central Wellington and the variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, noting the suspension bridge as a standout feature that adds excitement without being overly intimidating for intermediate riders.
Many riders highlight the well-maintained green trails and skills area as ideal starting points for beginners and families, while appreciating how the network quickly transitions to more challenging terrain for experienced cyclists seeking longer loops and technical descents.
Where to Learn More
Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park official site: Trail maps, difficulty guides, conditions updates and volunteer information.
Wellington City Council page: Official park details, access points, accessibility notes and master plan information.
Trailforks – Mākara Peak: GPS maps, individual trail descriptions and rider reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the main entrance to Mākara Peak?
The main entrance and car park are at the end of South Karori Road in Karori, about 20 minutes by car from central Wellington. Other access points include St Albans Avenue and Mākara Saddle.
Is it free to ride?
Yes, the park is free to use. Donations to the Mākara Peak Supporters support trail building and maintenance.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, green trails and the skills area near the entrance suit beginners and young riders. Difficulty increases significantly on higher-grade trails, so stay on marked green routes until comfortable.
What is the suspension bridge?
The 72-metre suspension bridge spans a gully and forms part of popular intermediate routes such as Upswing. It is accessible to most riders and is one of the park’s most distinctive features.
How long do most rides take?
Most rides last 1–3 hours depending on pace and route choice. The extensive network means multiple visits are needed for full exploration.
Are e-bikes allowed?
E-bikes are permitted on designated trails. Check the official website for current access rules, which can vary by zone.
Can I walk or run at the park?
Yes, walkers and runners are welcome on many tracks, though some are bike-priority only. Signage indicates suitability, and dogs must remain on a leash.
When was the park established?
The park was established in 1998 and celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024. The Mākara Peak Supporters have led trail development and conservation since then.
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