The Red Rocks Coastal Walk is one of Wellington’s most distinctive free walks — a 7.4-kilometre return trip along the wild south coast from Ōwhiro Bay to the Sinclair Head seal colony, passing the ancient red basalt rocks that give the walk its name. The rocks are approximately 190 million years old, formed from lava that erupted on the seafloor during the Triassic period and subsequently uplifted. The New Zealand fur seal (kekeno) colony at the end of the walk hauls out on the rocks year-round, with the largest numbers in winter.
Practical Information
| Trailhead | End of Ōwhiro Bay Parade, Ōwhiro Bay — follow the road to the car park at the end |
|---|---|
| Distance | 7.4 km return (3.7 km each way) |
| Time | 2–3 hours return |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat, firm track along the coastline |
| Facilities | Te Kōpahou Visitor Centre and toilets at the trailhead car park |
| Public transport | Bus 29 from Wellington city to Ōwhiro Bay |
| Cost | Free |
The Walk
The track follows an unsealed coastal path from the Ōwhiro Bay car park, heading south-west along a windswept stretch of coast backed by the Te Kōpahou Reserve and the hills of the Wellington Town Belt. The track is flat and firm, following the old vehicle access road used by contractors maintaining the power lines along the coast.
The distinctive red basalt rocks begin appearing after about 15–20 minutes’ walking — ancient pillow lava that formed underwater and has been reddened by oxidation. The red rocks are most visible near the coast where the sea washes over them.
The walk ends at Sinclair Head, where a New Zealand fur seal colony occupies the rocky platform at the tip of the headland. Seals are present year-round but numbers peak in winter — up to 100 or more animals can be hauled out during the coldest months. The colony is easily viewed from the track end; maintain a respectful distance (at least 20 metres) and never position yourself between a seal and the sea.
Te Kōpahou Reserve
Te Kōpahou Reserve is a Wellington City Council reserve covering the hills above the coastal track. The visitor centre at the trailhead has information on the local ecology, the geological history of the red rocks, and the seal colony. Several walking tracks run from the visitor centre up into the reserve — the Long Gully Track and the Hawkins Hill Track offer views over Wellington Harbour and the Tasman coast for those wanting to extend the trip beyond the coastal walk.
What Visitors Say
“We didn’t expect much — a coastal path, some rocks. But the seals were extraordinary, dozens of them just asleep on the rocks, completely unbothered. The red rocks really are red. Worth every step.” — AllTrails review, Red Rocks Coastal Walk
Where to Learn More
Red Rocks Coastal Walk — Wellington City Council has the official track information, facilities, safety notes and seasonal conditions.
Red Rocks Coastal Walk — WellingtonNZ covers the walk with visitor tips, transport and what to expect at the seal colony.
Red Rocks Coastal Walk — AllTrails has GPS maps, current conditions and community reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Red Rocks walk start?
At the end of Ōwhiro Bay Parade, Ōwhiro Bay — follow the road to the free car park at the road’s end. Te Kōpahou Visitor Centre and toilets are at the trailhead. Bus 29 from Wellington city serves Ōwhiro Bay.
How long is the Red Rocks walk?
7.4km return (3.7km each way). Allow 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace, including time at the seal colony.
Are the seals always there?
Yes — New Zealand fur seals are present at Sinclair Head year-round. Numbers are highest in winter (June–August), when up to 100+ animals may be hauled out. Summer numbers are lower as males disperse.
Why are the rocks red?
The rocks are ancient pillow basalt — lava that erupted underwater approximately 190 million years ago during the Triassic period and has since been reddened by oxidation. They are among the oldest exposed rocks in the Wellington region.
How close can I get to the seals?
Stay at least 20 metres away and never position yourself between a seal and the sea. New Zealand fur seals are wild animals and can move quickly. The colony is easily viewed from the track end without approaching.
Is the track suitable for children?
Yes — the track is flat, firm and accessible. The distance (7.4km return) is a full walk for younger children; a shorter option is to walk to the red rocks (about 1km from the car park) and turn back.
The Red Rocks walk is one of the Wellington Walking Tracks. The Zealandia Ecosanctuary is Wellington’s other close-to-city wildlife experience. The Day Trips from Wellington page covers further afield options.