Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush is Wellington’s only native botanic garden and the only public garden in New Zealand dedicated solely to native plants. Located at 150 Wilton Road, about 5km from the city centre, it offers around 11 kilometres of walking tracks through ancient podocarp forest, stream corridors, and managed plant collections — from a short flat loop to a full half-day through old-growth forest. Entry is free and the garden is open every day from dawn to dusk.
Practical Information
| Location | 150 Wilton Road, Wilton, Wellington |
| Open | Daily, dawn to dusk |
| Cost | Free |
| Total track length | About 11km across four named tracks |
| Distance from CBD | 5km |
The Four Tracks
Te Ara Porowhita (1.6km loop, ~30–40 min, easy) is the most popular option and a good introduction to the garden. It follows the stream, then loops through native bush and garden collections, with an option to walk down steps to the Troup Picnic Lawn and return on a gentler slope.
Te Ara Pīnaki (3.25km, 60–90 min, easy) is a gently rising loop that meanders through native forest to Karori Cemetery, then descends and returns along the Kaiwharawhara Stream.
Te Ara o Tama (4.75km, 90–120 min, moderate) goes deeper into the garden, visiting Moko — an approximately 800-year-old rimu — before climbing to a ridge with city views and returning via the Flax Clearing. It is the longest and most rewarding walk in the reserve.
Te Ara Tūpoupou (2km, 45–90 min, hard) is a steep, stepped climb through some of the best old-growth forest in Wellington. Short but demanding.
About the Garden
Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush protects a significant area of original Wellington lowland podocarp-broadleaf forest — the kind of dense, multi-layered bush that once covered much of the city. Giant tōtara, rimu and rata survive here alongside ongoing restoration planting in the wider reserve. The garden is managed jointly by Wellington City Council and the Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush Trust, a community trust that has played a central role in restoration work across the reserve.
The 800-year-old rimu known as Moko, reached on the Te Ara o Tama track, is one of the most significant surviving trees in the Wellington area. Its scale puts the age of the surrounding bush into perspective.
What Visitors Say
“You’d never know you were so close to the city. The ancient rimu is astonishing — truly puts you in your place. One of Wellington’s best free things to do.” — AllTrails
“The circular track is a beautiful short walk for all levels — native birds everywhere and the bush is absolutely stunning.” — Google Reviews
Where to Learn More
Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush Trust (owbt.nz) is the community trust that manages and restores the garden. Their site has information on visiting, track maps and the garden’s history.
Wellington Gardens — Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush has official information on the garden, tracks and facilities managed by Wellington City Council.
WellingtonNZ — Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush gives a visitor overview including track descriptions and access information.
Wikipedia — Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush covers the reserve’s history, ecology and its status as New Zealand’s only native botanic garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush?
150 Wilton Road, Wilton — about 5km from Wellington city centre.
Is entry free?
Yes, the garden and all walking tracks are completely free.
What is the easiest walk?
Te Ara Porowhita is a 1.6km loop taking about 30–40 minutes, suitable for most fitness levels.
What is the longest walk?
Te Ara o Tama at 4.75km (90–120 min) is the longest track and visits the 800-year-old rimu Moko.
What is Moko?
An approximately 800-year-old rimu tree deep in the reserve, accessible on the Te Ara o Tama track.
What makes it different from other Wellington bush walks?
It is the only public garden in New Zealand dedicated solely to native plants, and it preserves a significant tract of original Wellington lowland forest that predates the city.
Are dogs permitted?
Dogs are generally not permitted in the botanic garden. Check current Wellington City Council guidelines before visiting.
What are the opening hours?
Dawn to dusk, every day. There is no locked gate.
The Wellington Walking Tracks hub lists all walking routes across the Wellington region. The Trelissick Park Tracks in the Ngaio Gorge offer another substantial bush walk close to central Wellington, with stream-side tracks and connections to the Northern Walkway. The Karori Park loop is a short, easy flat walk nearby in Karori.
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