The Skyline Walkway runs 13.4km along the ridge between Makara Saddle in Karori and the suburb of Johnsonville, traversing the western hills of Wellington’s Outer Green Belt. It offers some of the widest views in the city — Wellington Harbour, the Marlborough Sounds, and on a clear day the Kaikoura Ranges — along a walk that can be done in stages using the multiple suburban access points along the route.
Practical Information
| Distance | 13.4km (full, one-way) |
| Walk time | Up to 6 hours full route; 3–4 hours for most walkers |
| Difficulty | Moderate to hard (steep and exposed in sections) |
| Start/End | Old Coach Road, Johnsonville / Makara Saddle, Karori |
| Access points | Multiple — Karori, Khandallah, Crofton Downs, Ngaio, Broadmeadows |
| Cost | Free |
| Water | None on track — carry your own |
| Toilets | None on track |
| Dogs | On lead |
About the Walk
The Skyline Walkway follows the ridgeline between Johnsonville in the north and Makara Saddle in the south, running along the broad, pale-green hills of the Outer Green Belt with open views on both sides. The ridge is very exposed — there is minimal shelter along most of the route, and conditions can change quickly. Strong wind is common, and walkers are advised to carry warm, waterproof clothing regardless of the weather in the city below.
There are no water or toilet facilities along the 13.4km route. The walk is best done on a clear, settled day to make the most of the views — on a good day you can see Wellington Harbour, the Kāpiti Coast to the north, and the Marlborough Sounds and Kaikoura Ranges to the south across Cook Strait.
Doing It in Stages
The walk can be completed end-to-end in one go or split into shorter sections using the access points from suburbs along the ridge. Access is possible from Karori, Khandallah, Crofton Downs, Ngaio, and Broadmeadows, allowing walkers to walk just one section at a time. The track can be walked in either direction.
The walkway connects to Khandallah Park, passing near the Mt Kaukau summit (445m), and links in at the southern end near the Brooklyn Wind Turbine track and Makara Peak area.
What Visitors Say
“The views are spectacular — Wellington Harbour on one side, the Kāpiti Coast on the other, and on a clear day you can see all the way to the South Island. A genuinely great walk.” — Wilderness Magazine
“Very exposed and the weather can turn fast, so come prepared. But when the conditions are right it’s one of the best walks in Wellington.” — AllTrails
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Skyline Walkway has the official page with route information, access points and conditions.
WellingtonNZ — Skyline Walkway covers the trail with a visitor overview including maps and safety advice.
Wilderness Magazine — The Skyline Walkway has a detailed trip report with route notes and photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Skyline Walkway?
13.4km full length, typically taking 3–4 hours but up to 6 hours for a leisurely pace.
Where does it start?
At either end: Old Coach Road in Johnsonville (northern end) or Makara Saddle in Karori (southern end). It can be walked in either direction.
Can I do just part of it?
Yes — there are multiple access points from suburban streets in Karori, Khandallah, Crofton Downs, Ngaio and Broadmeadows, allowing shorter sections.
Is there water on the track?
No. Carry all water you need before starting.
How exposed is it?
Very. The entire ridgeline has minimal shelter. Bring warm, windproof, waterproof clothing regardless of the forecast.
Does it connect to Khandallah Park?
Yes, the walkway passes through Khandallah Park and near the Mt Kaukau summit (445m).
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on lead.
What are the views like?
On clear days: Wellington Harbour, the Kāpiti Coast, Marlborough Sounds and the Kaikoura Ranges across Cook Strait.
The Wellington Walking Tracks hub lists all walking routes across the Wellington region. The Khandallah Park Tracks connect to the Skyline Walkway and include the Mt Kaukau summit at 445m. The Brooklyn Wind Turbine Track accesses the southern end of the city’s western hills from Aro Valley.
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