Polhill Reserve — now formally known as Waimapihi Reserve — is a pocket of urban native bush in Wellington’s Aro Valley, tucked behind the Karori ridge and accessed from Aro Street. The main Waimapihi Loop track is a 7.3km circuit through regenerating native forest with good connections to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine and the Zealandia sanctuary fence.
Practical Information
| Location | Aro Valley — main access from Aro Street (near Holloway Road), Wellington |
|---|---|
| Main loop distance | 7.3km loop (Waimapihi Reserve Loop) |
| Walking time | Approximately 2 hours for the loop |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate — some steep and rooted sections; suitable for walkers of medium fitness |
| Footwear | Sturdy walking shoes recommended — roots and rocks on some sections |
| Facilities | Small grass area at Aro Street start; toilets in Aro Valley nearby |
| Cost | Free |
| Connections | Brooklyn Wind Turbine; Zealandia fenceline track |
About Polhill Reserve
Polhill Reserve — the name most Wellingtonians still use — occupies the gully and hillside between Aro Valley and the Karori ridge. It is part of Wellington’s Town Belt network and has undergone significant native planting and pest control work over recent decades. The reserve is now a healthy regenerating native forest where tūī, kererū and other native birds are commonly heard and seen.
The reserve takes its popular name from Polhill Gully, the stream valley running through its centre. The formal reserve name, Waimapihi, refers to the stream — Waimapihi is the original te reo Māori name. The reserve abuts the Zealandia sanctuary on its western side, and the birdsong along the Zealandia fence can be remarkable, particularly in spring.
The Waimapihi Reserve Loop
The main loop track starts at the small grassed area on Aro Street just before Holloway Road, where a Waimapihi Reserve sign marks the entrance. The track climbs through the gully, ascending through the forest before circling around to return via the ridgeline. Several track junctions exist within the reserve — the orange Wellington City Council trail markers keep you on route.
The loop takes approximately two hours at a comfortable pace. Some sections have exposed tree roots and rocks underfoot, making sturdy footwear worthwhile. The steeper upper sections give views back across Aro Valley and towards Kelburn. The reserve connects at the top with the Brooklyn Wind Turbine area and the Zealandia perimeter fenceline track, allowing longer routes if desired.
What visitors say
“A gem of a reserve for being so close to the city. Once you’re in the trees you forget you’re 15 minutes walk from Cuba Street. The birds are fantastic — heard kererū the whole way around. The track can be muddy in wet weather, bring proper shoes.” — AllTrails review
Where to Learn More
Useful resources
- Wellington City Council — Waimapihi Reserve Loop: official track information, map and access details
- Hiking Project — Polhill Reserve Loop: trail profile, photos and visitor reviews
FAQ
Where do I start the Polhill Reserve walk?
The main access point is on Aro Street, just before the Holloway Road intersection — look for the Waimapihi Reserve sign and the small grass parking area.
How long does the loop take?
Allow approximately 2 hours at a comfortable walking pace for the full 7.3km loop.
Is the track suitable for children?
Yes for older children who are comfortable on uneven ground — roots and rocks on some sections. The loop is not suitable for prams or strollers.
Can I connect to Zealandia from Polhill Reserve?
Yes — the reserve connects to the Zealandia fenceline track at the top. This allows an extended walk combining both reserves. Note that entry to the Zealandia sanctuary itself requires a paid ticket, but the outside fenceline track is free.
Can I get to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine from here?
Yes — the reserve connects to the ridge track leading to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine at the top. It is possible to combine Polhill Reserve and the wind turbine in a longer outing.
Is the track muddy?
Some sections can be muddy after rain. Sturdy footwear is recommended year-round.
For more walking options in Wellington, see the Wellington Walking Tracks hub. The nearby Zealandia perimeter fenceline track is a free 9km loop around the sanctuary with excellent native birdsong.
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