Last updated July 2026
The Northern Walkway is a 14.9km one-way track through Wellington’s outer Green Belt and Town Belt reserves, linking the end of Truscott Avenue in Johnsonville with the top Cable Car station in Kelburn. It offers spectacular 360-degree views of the city, harbour, mountain ranges and sea from ridgeline sections, and passes abandoned tunnels plus the city’s oldest reserve. The route is accessible by public transport at both ends and can be walked in either direction or completed in stages. It is steep in places but not technically difficult overall, making it suitable for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Practical Information
| Northern start | End of Truscott Avenue, Johnsonville (near Raroa Station on the Johnsonville rail line; 1.6km walk from station) |
| Southern end | Top Cable Car station, Upland Road, Kelburn |
| Distance | 14.9km one way |
| Walking time | At least 4 hours one way (commonly 4–6 hours) |
| Difficulty | Moderate — steep in places but no technical terrain |
| Public transport | Johnsonville rail line to Raroa Station (northern end); Wellington Cable Car from Kelburn (southern end) |
| Facilities | No toilets on the track itself; facilities available at Johnsonville and Kelburn/Botanic Garden |
| Dogs | Must be on leads outside designated dog exercise areas |
| Cost | Free (Cable Car return fare applies if used) |
| Open | Year-round, any time |
About the Northern Walkway
The Northern Walkway follows Wellington’s outer Green Belt from Johnsonville via Mount Kaukau to Te Ahumairangi Hill (also known as Tinakori Hill) and the Wellington Botanic Garden in Kelburn. The route passes through native bush, planted forest and open ridgeline sections that separate the northern suburbs from the Hutt Valley. Walkers enjoy panoramic views across Wellington Harbour, the Remutaka Range, Cook Strait and the South Island on clear days.
Highlights include abandoned tunnels from earlier infrastructure and the city’s oldest reserve at the Botanic Garden. The track is well-marked with orange triangular markers and forms part of longer options such as sections of Te Araroa. It can be completed as a full one-way journey or broken into shorter stages using intermediate access points.
The most popular direction starts at the northern end using the Johnsonville rail line, finishing with the Cable Car descent into the city centre. This avoids retracing steps and makes efficient use of public transport connections. The walkway is open year-round with no entry fees.
What to Expect on the Track
Terrain varies from steep climbs and descents to gentler ridgeline walking with wide views. Sections pass through mature bush with birdsong and open areas exposed to wind and weather. There are no facilities or water sources on the track itself, so carry sufficient supplies and check the forecast before starting.
Allow extra time for stops at viewpoints or detours to tunnels. The track suits walkers comfortable with a full-day outing or those tackling it in stages. Intermediate access points include Weld Street and Simla Crescent Station.
What Visitors Often Say
The ridgeline views are a highlight, with the harbour on one side and ranges on the other. Starting from Raroa Station creates a real sense of adventure, and the mix of bush and open sections keeps the walk interesting throughout.
Many appreciate the option to do shorter sections or combine with the Cable Car for an easy return. The track feels surprisingly green and peaceful despite being close to the city, though steep parts require good fitness.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Northern Walkway: official track description, map and access details.
Wellington City Council map PDF: downloadable brochure with route and points of interest.
WellingtonNZ — Northern Walkway: visitor overview and route summary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the start of the Northern Walkway?
Catch the Johnsonville line train from Wellington Station to Raroa Station, then walk about 1.6km to the end of Truscott Avenue where the track begins. Limited parking is available at the start.
How do I get back from the end of the walk?
From the top Cable Car station in Kelburn, take the Cable Car down to Lambton Quay. You can also walk down through the Botanic Garden to Glenmore Street for bus connections.
How long does the Northern Walkway take?
Allow at least 4 hours for the full 14.9km at a steady pace, or up to 6 hours with frequent view stops and detours. It can also be walked in shorter stages.
Is the Northern Walkway suitable for beginners?
It requires a reasonable level of fitness due to the distance and steep sections, though it is not technically difficult. Beginners may prefer shorter sections or the easier loops on Te Ahumairangi Hill.
Are there toilets on the track?
No toilets are available on the track itself. Use facilities at Johnsonville before starting or at the Botanic Garden in Kelburn at the end.
Can dogs use the Northern Walkway?
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on leads outside designated dog exercise areas. Clean up after your dog and dispose of waste appropriately.
Can I walk just part of the Northern Walkway?
Yes. The route can be broken into stages using access points such as Weld Street or Simla Crescent Station. Check the official map for intermediate entry and exit points.
Are there any notable features along the way?
The track passes abandoned tunnels from earlier infrastructure, offers 360-degree views from ridgelines, and ends at the Wellington Botanic Garden, the city’s oldest reserve.
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