Last updated July 2026
Waimapihi Reserve (formerly known as Polhill Reserve) is a regenerating native bush area in Wellington’s Aro Valley and north-west Brooklyn, forming part of the Town Belt. The reserve offers a popular 7.3km loop track starting from Aro Street, with connections to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine and the Zealandia fenceline. It features volunteer-led restoration work that has supported native bird populations and provides both walking and mountain biking opportunities close to the city centre.
Practical Information
| Location | Aro Street entrance (near Holloway Road), Aro Valley, Wellington |
| Main loop distance | 7.3km loop |
| Walking time | About 2 hours |
| Difficulty | Average fitness required; steep sections and uneven ground |
| Footwear | Sturdy walking shoes recommended |
| Facilities | Grassed area at Aro Street entrance; limited parking at entrances; nearby toilets in Aro Valley |
| Dogs | Must be kept on a lead |
| Cost | Free |
| Connections | Brooklyn Wind Turbine; Zealandia fenceline track; George Denton Park |
About Waimapihi Reserve
Waimapihi Reserve occupies hills and gullies between Aro Valley and the Karori ridge in north-west Brooklyn. It forms part of Wellington’s Town Belt and has benefited from decades of native planting and pest control by volunteer groups including the Waimapihi Trust and Brooklyn Trail Builders.
The reserve takes its formal name from the Waimapihi stream that flows through the area. The name Polhill remains in common local use. Restoration efforts have created healthy regenerating native forest that supports birds such as tīeke, toutouwai, hihi and kākā along with other native species.
The reserve abuts the Zealandia sanctuary on its western side. The fenceline track offers good opportunities to hear native birdsong. WWII-era anti-aircraft gun emplacements are accessible via tracks from Ashton Fitchett Drive.
Walking the Waimapihi Reserve Loop
The main loop begins at the small grassed area on Aro Street just before Holloway Road, marked by a Waimapihi Reserve sign. The route follows the Transient Track uphill through regenerating bush, passes junctions with orange trail markers, crosses boardwalks and reaches the Zealandia fenceline before descending via George Denton Park back to Aro Street.
The 7.3km circuit suits walkers with average fitness. Some sections are steep with roots and rocks underfoot. Views open up across Aro Valley and the harbour on higher sections. The loop connects with the Brooklyn Wind Turbine area and allows extensions along the Zealandia perimeter track.
Mountain Biking in Waimapihi Reserve
Waimapihi Reserve is one of Wellington’s popular mountain biking destinations. The Transient track is among the city’s most used trails, climbing from Aro Valley to the Zealandia fenceline. Riders can continue to the wind turbine via Car Parts or descend on trails such as Highbury Fling, Rollercoaster and Serendipity.
Multiple entrances including Highbury Road, Karepa Street and Ashton Fitchett Drive provide access. Riders should respect shared-use rules and yield to walkers where required.
What Visitors Often Say
A convenient city-fringe reserve where the bush quickly creates a sense of escape. Walkers frequently note the birdlife and the value of the loop for a solid workout close to central Wellington. Mud after rain is commonly mentioned, along with the need for good footwear on rooty sections.
Mountain bikers praise the variety of trails and the flow of popular routes like Transient. Many appreciate the quick access from Aro Valley and the option to combine rides with the wind turbine or fenceline tracks. Shared-use etiquette and occasional wet conditions are recurring notes.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council – Waimapihi Reserve loop: Official track description, directions and map.
Wellington City Council – George Denton Park and Waimapihi Reserve: Reserve overview, features and mountain biking information.
Wellington City Council – History of Waimapihi Reserve: Background on the area’s development and volunteer restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Waimapihi Reserve loop start?
The main entrance is the small grassed area on Aro Street just before Holloway Road. Look for the Waimapihi Reserve sign.
How long is the loop track?
The loop measures 7.3km and takes about 2 hours for walkers of average fitness.
Is the track suitable for children?
The loop suits older children comfortable on uneven terrain. It is not suitable for prams or strollers due to steep and rooted sections.
Can dogs visit the reserve?
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times.
Are there mountain bike trails?
Yes. Popular trails include Transient, Highbury Fling and connections to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine area.
Can I reach the Brooklyn Wind Turbine from the reserve?
Yes. The loop and connecting tracks lead to the wind turbine area and allow longer outings.
Is the track muddy after rain?
Some sections become muddy in wet weather. Sturdy footwear is recommended year-round.
Are there connections to Zealandia?
Yes. The reserve meets the Zealandia fenceline track at the top, providing free access along the perimeter (paid entry is required for the sanctuary itself).
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