Last updated July 2026
Wellington’s south coast offers a very different cycling experience to the sheltered harbour bays, exposed to Cook Strait swells and southerly winds with rugged sea cliffs, rocky beaches and a largely undeveloped shoreline. The South Coast Loop links the Island Bay Cycleway with the paved Esplanade shared path running between Houghton Bay and Owhiro Bay, and an easy coastal track continuing west toward Red Rocks and the Sinclair Head seal colony.
Practical Information
| Paved route | Esplanade shared path: Houghton Bay to Owhiro Bay (approximately 3 km) |
| Coastal track | Owhiro Bay to Red Rocks / Sinclair Head (approximately 4 km one way) |
| Access | Island Bay via the Island Bay Cycleway, or directly to Owhiro Bay via Happy Valley Road |
| Difficulty | Easy on the Esplanade shared path; easy to moderate on the unsealed coastal track |
| Surface | Sealed path on the Esplanade; unsealed coastal track beyond Owhiro Bay |
| Cost | Free |
About the South Coast Loop
The southern coast cycling route connects several bays along Wellington’s exposed Cook Strait frontage. From the city, the easiest approach is via the Island Bay Cycleway along The Parade, then west along the seafront. The paved Esplanade shared path is suitable for all bikes and links Houghton Bay through Lyall Bay and Island Bay toward Owhiro Bay.
Owhiro Bay is the last road-accessible bay on Wellington’s southwest coast, reached from the city via Happy Valley Road from Brooklyn or along the coast from Island Bay. From Owhiro Bay the sealed road ends and a gravel coastal track continues west, easy to ride on a mountain bike or gravel bike, to Red Rocks and the New Zealand fur seal colony at Sinclair Head. This track is not sealed and involves some rough sections.
The route forms part of broader coastal connections in Wellington and provides access to Te Kopahou Reserve, a large area with walking and mountain biking tracks, popular for diving, surfcasting and beachcombing.
The Route
The Esplanade shared path provides a flat, family-friendly sealed surface along the coastline. Beyond Owhiro Bay the track becomes an unsealed 4WD route suitable for recreational cyclists on appropriate bikes. Riders should be prepared for variable conditions including sand and rocks in places.
Red Rocks and the Seal Colony
The Red Rocks section takes its name from the distinctive red-tinged volcanic rocks on the shoreline. These include pillow lavas and cherts of Permian age, among the oldest rocks in the North Island. At Sinclair Head a colony of New Zealand fur seals (kekeno) hauls out on the rocks, particularly from May through October. The coastal scenery is dramatic with steep bluffs, battered rock platforms and open sea exposure that gives the south coast a very different character to Wellington’s sheltered harbour.
What Visitors Often Say
The south coast feels wild and remote despite its proximity to the city, with calm days offering excellent views of seals at Red Rocks and a rewarding ride along the rugged shoreline.
Cyclists appreciate the contrast to harbour routes, noting the exposed conditions and scenic drama, though they recommend checking wind forecasts before heading out on the unsealed section.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council Red Rocks Coastal Walk: Details on the track, access from Owhiro Bay and seal viewing.
Wellington City Council Owhiro Bay: Information on the bay, reserve access and coastal track.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access the south coast by bike?
From central Wellington ride south via the Island Bay Cycleway or Brooklyn Road to Happy Valley Road. The Esplanade shared path connects the eastern bays to Owhiro Bay.
What type of bike do I need?
The Esplanade shared path suits any bike. The track beyond Owhiro Bay is unsealed, so a mountain bike or gravel bike is recommended.
Are there seals at Red Rocks?
Yes, New Zealand fur seals (kekeno) haul out at Sinclair Head near Red Rocks, particularly from May through October. Keep a respectful distance of at least 20 metres.
Is the route suitable for families?
The Esplanade shared path is family-friendly. The Red Rocks track is rougher and better suited to older children and adults on appropriate bikes.
What are the Red Rocks?
Ancient volcanic rocks on the south coast shoreline, including Permian pillow lavas and cherts that rank among the oldest exposed rocks in the North Island.
Is there wind exposure?
Yes, the south coast is fully exposed to Cook Strait. Southerly conditions can make riding challenging, so choose a calm day for the best experience.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted on leads in some areas but check current Wellington City Council rules for Te Kopahou Reserve and the coastal track.
Is the track part of a larger network?
Yes, it connects with the Island Bay Cycleway and forms part of options within Te Kopahou Reserve and broader Wellington coastal routes.
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